- Photo Credit: Matt Bites (mattbites.com)
Photo Credit: Damien Bere
Photo Credit: traveljapanblog.com
South Korea is an East Asian nation on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. The country has developed into one of Asia's most affluent countries since partition in 1948. The economy of South Korea is the fourth largest economy in Asia and the eleventh largest in the world. It is a mixed economy dominated by family-owned conglomerates called ‘Chaebols’
South Korea is famous for its impressive rise from one of the poorest countries in the world to a developed, high-income country in just one generation. This economic miracle, commonly known as the ‘Miracle on the Han River,’ brought South Korea to the ranks of elite countries in the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) and the G-20.
South Korea is also known for its green, hilly countryside dotted with cherry trees and centuries-old Buddhist temples, plus its coastal fishing villages, tropical islands.
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a sprawling metropolis where hyper-modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways and pop culture meet Buddhist temples, palaces and street markets.
Notable attractions include futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a convention hall with curving architecture and a rooftop park; Gyeongbokgung Palace, which once had more than 7,000 rooms; and Jogyesa Temple, site of centuries-old locust and pine trees.
The Koreans are one ethnic family speaking one language. The fact that all Koreans speak and write the same language has been a crucial factor in their strong national identity. Modern Korea has several different dialects including the standard one used in Seoul and central areas, but they are similar enough that speakers/listeners do not have trouble understanding each other.
With the world’s fastest broadband speed and a strong digital economy across commerce, education, entertainment and government, South Korea boasts one of the world’s most technologically advanced economies. The country’s major industries are in Electronics, shipbuilding, automotive, petrochemicals, metal and machinery products.