Korea is a peninsula in northeast Asia which lies south of Russia and China.
Its southern tip is within 120 km of Japan. The Sea of Japan and the Korean Strait separate Korea
from Japan on the east. The Yellow Sea separates Korea and China on the west.
Korea experiences four distinct seasons. The northern areas of South Korea
are cooler than the southern areas. Winter begins in November and lasts until March. Winds blow
in from Siberia and in some parts of Korea, temperatures can fall to -15°C. Summer, also known
as monsoon season, lasts from June to August and is hot and humid with temperatures that, in
some areas, can rise to 35°C. Koreans might vacation in the mountains or go to beaches to
get away from the heat. The favourite seasons are spring and fall when temperatures are moderate
and skies are clear and bright.
Korea has varied terrain. Swift, shallow rivers help to define the political
boundaries of Korea's nine provinces. Roughly 75% of Korea is mountainous. Large port centres
and cities like Seoul and Pusan have developed along major rivers. The lush and fertile
southwestern area of Korea is thought of as the rice bin. About 300 of the 3000 islands that
surround Korea are inhabited. The largest, Cheju-do Island, is a tourist attraction and a
romantic spot for honeymooners.
Did you know?
Located on the banks of the Han-gang River, Seoul is home to one-fourth of Korea's
population. |
Summary Fact Sheet
Official Name: |
Republic of Korea |
Capital: |
Seoul |
Type of Government: |
Republic |
Population: |
45.5 million |
Area: |
98,480 sq km |
Ethnic Group: |
Korean |
Language: |
Korean |
Religions: |
Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Chondogyoism |
Unit of Currency: |
South Korean Won |
National Flag: |
The T'aegukki - white background with blue and red yin and yang
symbols in the centre. Black symbolic lines at each of the four corners
represent earth, heaven, water and fire |
Date of Independence: |
August 15, 2021 |
| |
Did you know?
The name Korea comes from the early dynasty name Koryo which means
high mountains and clear water. |
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