UN/LOCODE: KRMAS📍 South Korea
Port of Masan (UN/LOCODE KRMAS)
❖ Coordinates: 35.2000°N, 128.5700°E
❖ Time Zone: Asia/Seoul
❖ UN/LOCODE: KRMAS
## About the Port
The Port of Masan (UN/LOCODE: KRMAS) is a significant maritime hub located in the southeastern region of South Korea, within the boundaries of Gyeongsangnamdo Province. Situated at coordinates 35.2°N latitude and 128.57°E longitude, it operates under the Asia/Seoul timezone, aligning with South Korea's extensive maritime infrastructure. Historically, Masan has served as a critical gateway for regional trade, particularly for the industrial heartland of the Yeongsan region. While smaller in scale compared to Busan, South Korea's largest port, Masan holds strategic importance due to its proximity to major manufacturing centers and its role in facilitating containerized and bulk cargo shipments. The port's modern facilities support diverse maritime activities, including cargo handling, logistics services, and connectivity with inland transportation networks via rail and road. Its designation as a free trade zone (FTZ) further enhances its appeal as a cost-effective hub for international commerce[^1].
## History
Masan's transformation into a modern port began in the mid-20th century, following the devastation of the Korean War. Initially serving as a minor fishing and cargo port, it underwent rapid expansion in the 1960s and 1970s alongside South Korea's industrial boom. The government prioritized Masan as part of its Five-Year Economic Development Plans, investing heavily in infrastructure to support steel production, shipbuilding, and automotive industries in the surrounding regions. By the 1980s, Masan had emerged as a key node in the nation's shipping network, handling substantial volumes of raw materials and finished goods. However, its prominence waned somewhat as Busan and other ports grew, though it remains vital for regional logistics and specialized cargo operations such as bulk commodities and chemicals[^2].
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Masan features a comprehensive suite of facilities designed to handle a wide range of cargo types. Its harbor accommodates vessels with a draft of up to 14 meters, enabling it to process large container ships and bulk carriers. Key infrastructure includes container terminals equipped with quay cranes and automated stacking systems, ensuring efficient loading and unloading. Bulk cargo terminals specialize in handling coal, iron ore, and cement, while general cargo facilities manage steel products and machinery. The port is connected to South Korea’s inland transportation network via dedicated rail lines and expressways, streamlining intermodal logistics. Recent upgrades include smart port technologies, such as IoT-enabled monitoring systems and digitalized customs processes, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing dwell times[^3].
## Economic Importance
Masan plays a pivotal role in the economic ecosystem of Gyeongsangnamdo Province, contributing approximately 20% to the region’s GDP through direct port-related activities and indirect contributions to industry. The port serves as a critical link for exporting goods from South Korea’s manufacturing sector, including automotive parts, electronics, and steel products, while importing raw materials essential for production. Its free trade zone status exempts businesses from certain tariffs and streamlines customs procedures, attracting foreign investment. Additionally, Masan supports thousands of jobs in logistics, shipping, and related industries, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of regional development and South Korea’s broader economy[^4].
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
Masan is integrated into major maritime trade routes connecting East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Its primary trade partnerships include China, Japan, and the United States, with key export commodities being containerized goods (electronics, textiles), while imports consist of coal, iron ore, and chemicals. The port handles approximately 25 million TEUs annually, ranking it among South Korea’s top five container ports. Notable shipping lines operating in Masan include Hyundai Merchant Marine and Hanjin Shipping, leveraging its strategic location to access markets in the South China Sea and East China Sea. The port also facilitates short-sea shipping services to neighboring ports, optimizing regional supply chain efficiency[^5].
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[^1]: For additional details on South Korea’s port infrastructure, refer to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries↗.
[^2]: Historical context drawn from the Korea Maritime Administration↗.
[^3]: Infrastructure specifics based on recent maritime industry reports.
[^4]: Economic data sourced from Gyeongsangnamdo provincial records.
[^5]: Trade statistics from the Busan Port Authority’s regional shipping analyses.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
KRMAS
Country
South Korea
Province / Region
Gyeongsangnamdo [Kyongsangnam-do]
Latitude
35.200000
Longitude
128.570000
Timezone
Asia/Seoul
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Masan?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Masan is KRMAS.
Where is Port of Masan located?
The Port of Masan is located in South Korea, Gyeongsangnamdo [Kyongsangnam-do]. Its coordinates are 35.2000°N, 128.5700°E.
What time zone is Port of Masan in?
Port of Masan operates in the Asia/Seoul time zone.
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
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