What countries border Korea, South?
What is the current weather in Korea, South?
What is Korea, South famous for?
What is the capital of Korea, South?
Capital | Seoul; note - Sejong, located some 120 km (75 mi) south of Seoul, serves as an administrative capital for segments of the South Korean Government |
Government Type | presidential republic |
Currency | Won (KRW) |
Total Area |
38,502 Square Miles 99,720 Square Kilometers |
Location | Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea |
Language | Korean |
GDP - real growth rate | 2.7% |
GDP - per capita (PPP) | $36,700.00 (USD) |
What is the population of Korea, South?
Ethnic Groups | homogeneous (except for about 20,000 Chinese) |
Languages |
Korean is spoken in both North and South Korea and is written in a phonetic alphabet created and promulgated in the mid-15th century. While the alphabet is called Hangul in South Korea, it is known as Chosongul in North Korea. Although the Korean language is replete with words adapted from Chinese, the North Koreans, unlike the South Koreans, do not use Chinese characters with Chosongul in their newspapers and publications. They prefer to use only Chosongul, which is sufficient for most needs. There are also some differences in vocabulary between the North and the South, influenced somewhat by politics and also by the contact each country has had with other nations. Russian, Chinese, and English are taught as second languages in the schools. |
Nationality Noun | Korean(s) |
Population | 51,835,110 |
Population Growth Rate | 0.18% |
Population in Major Urban Areas | SEOUL (capital) 9.736 million; Busan (Pusan) 3.372 million; Incheon (Inch'on) 2.622 million; Daegu (Taegu) 2.447 million; Daejon (Taejon) 1.538 million; Gwangju (Kwangju) 1.503 million |
Urban Population | 83.200000 |
What type of government does Korea, South have?
Executive Branch |
chief of state: President YOON Suk Yeol (since 10 May 2022); the president is both chief of state and head of government; Prime Minister HAN Duck-soo (since 21 May 2022) serves as the principal executive assistant to the president, similar to the role of a vice president head of government: President YOON Suk Yeol (since 10 May 2022) cabinet: State Council appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority popular vote for a single 5-year term; election last held on 9 March 2022 (next to be held in March 2027); prime minister appointed by president with consent of the National Assembly election results: 2022: YOON Suk-yeol elected president; YOON Suk-yeol (PPP) 48.6%, LEE Jae-myung (DP) 47.8%; other 3.6% 2017: MOON Jae-in elected president; MOON Jae-in (DP) 41.1%, HONG Joon-pyo (Liberty Korea Party) 24%, AHN Cheol-soo (PP) 21.4%, YOO Seung-min (Bareun Party) 6.8%, SIM Sang-jung (Justice Party) 6.2% |
Suffrage | 18 years of age; universal; note - the voting age was lowered from 19 to 18 beginning with the 2020 national election |
Citizenship |
citizenship by birth: no citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of South Korea dual citizenship recognized: no residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years |
National Holiday | Liberation Day, 15 August (1945) |
Constitution |
history: several previous; latest passed by National Assembly 12 October 1987, approved in referendum 28 October 1987, effective 25 February 1988 amendments: proposed by the president or by majority support of the National Assembly membership; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly membership, approval in a referendum by more than one half of the votes by more than one half of eligible voters, and promulgation by the president; amended several times, last in 1987 |
Independence | 15 August 1945 (from Japan) |
What environmental issues does Korea, South have?
Overview |
Located on a peninsula squarely between China and Japan, Korea is a mountainous and ruggedly beautiful land of diverse geographical features. Seas form three of its boundaries: to the east is the Sea of Japan (or East Sea); to the south, the narrow Korean Straits, and to the west, the Yellow Sea. The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) forms the northern boundary, separating the Republic of Korea from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK/North Korea). The capital city of Seoul lies some 30 miles south of the DMZ. In addition, there are the regional capitals for various provinces in the country. There are also several important seaports in Korea. Pusan, about 300 miles southeast of Seoul, is Korea's main seaport. Inchon, about 40 miles west of Seoul, is the second most active port. The cities of Pohang, Ulsan, and Chinhae are also key sites in commerce. |
Climate |
Korea's climate is marked by four very distinct seasons. The winters are dry and cold, with snow usually appearing in January. The advent of the cherry blossoms heralds spring—a season that can also be somewhat unpredictable. A brief monsoon season and high temperatures combine to make city life rather humid in the summertime. Autumn is easily the best time of year in Korea, when both the cities and the countryside benefit from clear skies and vibrant fall foliage. Only 19% of the country is flat enough to be arable, and that land is farmed intensively. In addition, there has been a steady shift away from the farm and into urban areas. Two-thirds of Korea's population now live in its cities. |
Border Countries | North Korea 238 km |
Environment - Current Issues | air pollution in large cities; acid rain; water pollution from the discharge of sewage and industrial effluents; drift net fishing |
Environment - International Agreements | party to: Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements |
Terrain | mostly hills and mountains; wide coastal plains in west and south |
How big is the Korea, South economy?
Economic Overview |
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, has emerged as a global economic powerhouse over the past few decades. This transformation, often called the "Miracle on the Han River," has seen South Korea evolve from a war-torn nation into the world’s 10th-largest economy as of 2023. The nation's economic journey is a testament to strategic planning, innovation, and resilience. Historical Overview The Korean War (1950-1953) left South Korea in ruins, with a devastated infrastructure and a weak economy. However, the subsequent decades witnessed remarkable recovery and growth. Under the leadership of Park Chung-hee in the 1960s and 1970s, the country embarked on an ambitious path of industrialization. The government implemented five-year economic plans to develop heavy industries and export-oriented growth. Economic Structure and Key Industries Today, South Korea's economy is characterized by a high level of diversification. Key sectors include manufacturing, technology, automotive, shipbuilding, petrochemicals, and services. The chaebols, large family-owned conglomerates like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG, play a crucial role in the economy. These conglomerates have become global leaders in various industries, particularly electronics, automobiles, and heavy machinery. 1. Technology and Innovation: South Korea is a global leader in technology and innovation, home to some of the world's largest and most advanced electronics companies. Samsung Electronics, for instance, is a leader in semiconductors, smartphones, and home appliances. The nation's research and development (R&D) focus has led to significant advancements in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and 5G technology. 2. Automotive Industry: The automotive sector is another pillar of the South Korean economy. Hyundai Motor Group, which includes Hyundai and Kia, is the fifth-largest automaker in the world. South Korean cars are renowned for their quality, innovation, and affordability, making them popular in international markets. 3. Shipbuilding: South Korea has long been a leader in the shipbuilding industry, producing some of the world's largest and most advanced vessels. Companies like Hyundai Heavy Industries, Samsung Heavy Industries, and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering dominate the global market and contribute significantly to the national economy. Trade and Exports South Korea's economy is heavily dependent on international trade. The country is the seventh-largest exporter and the ninth-largest importer in the world. Essential export items include semiconductors, automobiles, petrochemicals, ships, and steel. Major trading partners include China, the United States, Japan, and the European Union. The South Korean government has negotiated numerous free trade agreements (FTAs) to promote exports and secure product markets. Notable contracts include those with the United States (KORUS FTA), the European Union, and China. Challenges and Opportunities Despite its impressive economic achievements, South Korea faces several challenges. The economy is highly dependent on exports, making it vulnerable to global economic fluctuations. The country also has an aging population, which poses long-term challenges for its labor market and social welfare system. 1. Demographic Challenges: South Korea has one of the world's lowest birth rates, leading to a rapidly aging population. This demographic shift is expected to pressure the labor force and increase the burden on social security systems. 2. Innovation and Competitiveness: South Korea must continue to invest in innovation and maintain its competitive edge in technology and manufacturing to sustain its economic growth. This requires ongoing investment in education, R&D, and infrastructure. 3. Income Inequality and Labor Market Issues: Income inequality and labor market polarization are significant issues. While the chaebols have driven economic growth, they have also contributed to economic disparities. The government needs to address these issues to ensure more inclusive growth. Future Prospects Looking ahead, South Korea is well-positioned to continue its economic success. The government’s focus on fostering innovation, expanding digital infrastructure, and promoting green growth are key strategies for future development. Additionally, South Korea's strategic location and vigorous trade relationships will continue to support its role as a significant player in the global economy. In conclusion, South Korea’s economy is a remarkable example of rapid development and resilience. While challenges remain, the country’s commitment to innovation, strategic planning, and global engagement will likely ensure continued prosperity and influence on the world stage. |
Industries | electronics, telecommunications, automobile production, chemicals, shipbuilding, steel |
Currency Name and Code | Won (KRW) |
Export Partners | US 20.4%, China 14.7%, Japan 9.4%, Hong Kong 6.3%, Taiwan 4.1% |
Import Partners | Japan 19.6%, US 15.2%, China 11.4%, Saudi Arabia 5% |
What current events are happening in Korea, South?
Source: Google News
What makes Korea, South a unique country to travel to?