Korea Facts
Korea on the Map
South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, occupies the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula. Surrounded by the Yellow Sea, the Sea of Japan and the East China sea, giving the country its unique geographical feature.
With Seoul as its capital city, is the 9th most populous capital city with a population of 9,962,393.
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Population
Approximately 51,164,435
(as of 2018) -
Temperatures
Average annual 10-16°C
Four seasons. -
Time Zone
UTC+9
(Korea Standard Time) - Standard Voltage 220V, 60Hz
National Symbols
- National Flag : Taegeukgi
- Taegeukgi implies the oriental principles of Yin and Yang with a symbolic circle in the center which has 2 different colors. The red part stands for the positive and bright energy of the Yang, the blue part stands for the negative and lunar energy of the
Yin. The white background represents purity, brightness and peace. The four trigrams specifically represent continuous balance, harmony and development.
- National Flower : Mugunghwa
- Mugunghwa has a meaning of ‘Eternal blooming and never falling ever” and it blooms from the middle of summer time until early autumn every year. You can see this flower everywhere in the entire country and it has 200 different kinds of species in the world. Historically, it has been loved since Korean Independence Day in 1945 as a national flower. Mugung, in Korean means “Eternity, Immortality and Sincerity”.
Korean Traditional Culture
Hansik refers to traditional Korean food, centered around rice, served alongside a bowl of soup and a variety of side dishes. Most foods use meat and vegetables as the main ingredients, and are soaked in brine or water rather than fried in oil, making hansik wonderful for one's health.
Hanjeongsik is served as a full table’s worth of side dishes featuring meat and vegetables along with soups, steamed foods, and hot pots. This is a popular choice for visitors looking to try a little bit of everything.
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Koreans have the unique characteristic of lyrical sensibility, using music to express their emotions. Jongmyo Jeryeak, royal ancestral ritual music, the representative royal court music played during ancestral rites, was solemn and splendid. In contrast, the commoners who wished to overcome the difficulties of the working class usually sang folk songs and pansori, a traditional Korean music that narrates a themed story.
Recently, there is a growing trend of fusion art troupes where traditional Korean music is combined with contemporary elements. Performances such as 'Nanta' and 'Gugak B-boy', were created. Such fusion music has since been receiving attention both locally and abroad.
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Hangeul, one of the most indigenous and unique creations of the nation, was introduced in 1443 by King Sejong(r. 1418-1450), the 4th king of the Joseon Dynasty.
Hangeul is a series of creative and scientifically designed characters. The alphabet is composed of basic consonants and vowels, each with a set sound, and a dot or a line added to form more sounds. Originally composed of 17 consonants and 11 vowels, only 14 consonants and 10 vowels are used in modern Hangeul.
The language is very easy for all to learn. Of all Korea's cultural assets, the citizens are most proud of Hangeul and thus designated October 9 as Hangeul Day, to memorialize and celebrate the invention of the alphabet.
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Traditional Korean Houses, Hanok, refers to houses built in the traditional Korean style. While tile-roofed and thatch-roofed hanoks were equally common, the former were typically noblemen residences while the latter were mostly houses of the commoners in the past. These days, most traditional hanok that are still lived in have modern facilities installed within. [ COPYRIGHTS ⓒKOREA TOURISM ORGANIZATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. www.visitkorea.or.kr ]
Transportation
There are eight international airports in Korea and seven domestic airports in each local hub city. Whether you are traveling in or out of Korea, there are many flights available.
출처 : 공항철도(주)
The fastest way to get to downtown. The AREX operates two trains. The Express Train runs directly nonstop from Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station. The All Stop Train stops by 13 stations from the airport to Seoul Station.
The most convenient and preferred means of transportation in Korea. Highly favored by locals and foreigners. Operated in five major cities in Korea, you will have no trouble getting to your destination. There are subway map apps available for travelers and they provide announcements for stops in English as well.
출처 : 한국관광공사
Taxis can be found anywhere. It is convenient, safe and inexpensive. Nowadays, many taxi drivers are able to communicate in English. You can also call for taxis as well but the base fare is a bit higher but not too much.
출처 : 한국관광공사
The city bus is one of the best ways to get around Korea. The buses are classified in colors and numbers to designate each route. Bus fare can be paid in cash or transportation card.
출처 : 한국관광공사
One of the most popular ways to travel from region to region is by bus. Express and intercity buses have extensive reach throughout Korea. You can travel from city to city at reasonable prices.
Travel from city to city in a comfortable fashion. Taking the train is a great way to spend time with the ones you are traveling with and to enjoy the great scenery until you get to your destination. There are express and regular trains. The fares depend on the train type and distance.
There are five main ports in Korea that offer ferry services. Many locals and tourists enjoy beautiful views over the ocean. When boarding, passengers are required to carry identification such as a passport or ID card.