How a single Korean province was split by the 38th parallel and history

Countries & Cities · Published 30 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Kangwon Province is a geographic puzzle shaped by centuries of shifting borders and political upheaval. Once a unified region during the Joseon Dynasty, it was severed in 1945 by the 38th parallel. Today, the northern portion remains a distinct entity, defined by rugged mountains and a complex, evolving administrative identity.

The origins of Kangwon Province date back to 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, when it was established as one of the Eight Provinces of Korea. Its name was derived from its two principal cities: Gangneung and Wonju. Over the next several centuries, the region underwent significant administrative restructuring. In 1895, the province was replaced by the districts of Chuncheon and Gangneung, only to be re-formed in 1896 when Korea was divided into thirteen provinces. During this period, the provincial capital was moved to Chuncheon, while Wonju was reintegrated into the province.

The most profound transformation occurred in 1945, when the 38th parallel became the dividing line between Soviet and American zones of occupation. This split effectively severed the province. By 1946, the northern portion was expanded to include areas from Gyeonggi Province and South Hamgyŏng Province, including the city of Wŏnsan, which became the new capital because the traditional capitals of Wonju and Chuncheon were located south of the border. Following the 1953 Korean War Armistice Agreement, the boundary was further shifted to the Military Demarcation Line.

Modern Kangwon Province is defined by the T'aebaek Mountains, which include the iconic Mount Kumgang, or Diamond Mountain. The region is divided into two cities, 15 counties, and one special administrative region. Environmental conservation has also become a priority; in 2003, the Mt. Chuae Plant Reserve was established to protect mixed forests of pine and broad-leaf trees. The province’s relationship with its southern counterpart remains complex, underscored by the 2002 creation and subsequent 2024 closure of the Mount Kumgang Tourist Region, reflecting the shifting political climate between North and South Korea.

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