In just a few decades of the last century, South Korea has turned from an economically backward, unknown to anyone into one of the most highly developed countries in the world. Its products are exported and are in great demand in the world market. And Korean pop music and TV shows are getting more and more popular. However, Korea is still a mystery to us.
If you still happen to visit the “country of morning freshness”, then you will have the opportunity to get in touch with this unusual oriental culture. Mountains of amazing beauty, city streets constantly boiling with life at night, ultramodern buildings and ancient Buddhist temples ... Koreans care about their history and their native land, and it is not surprising, because this is manifested literally in everything: in food, and home improvement, and, especially, in relation to nature and traditions.
State with five thousand years of history
According to the legend of Tangun, the ancestor of the Korean nation, the first mention of the state on the territory of modern Koreadate back to 2333 BC. After the decline of Ancient Joseon, as it was then called, the period of the three states began. These were the states of Koguryeo, Baekche and Silla, created by various tribes and waging wars among themselves for supremacy on the peninsula.
Silla, building up its military and cultural potential, and, having managed to unite with the Chinese army, defeated its rivals Goguryeo and Baekje. The era of the United Silla (668-935) began, when for the first time a single state was created on the peninsula. It was a time of magnificent flourishing of culture under state patronage of Buddhism.
After the decline of Silla, a new dynasty came to power - Goryeo (918 - 1392). It is noteworthy that at the beginning of the second millennium, Europeans and Arabs learned about the Korean state, and the word “Korye” was firmly established in their pronunciation of the name of the country. This is where the modern name of Korea comes from.
A distinctive feature of the last ruling dynasty of Joseon (1392 - 1910) was that although the ruler was a monarch, he had a political counterweight in the person of Confucian-educated officials and scholars. During this period, both culture and technology were widely developed, an example of which is the creation of the Korean alphabet and various inventions (for example, a rain gauge).
Between 1910 and 1945, Korea fell under the colonial yoke of its neighbors, Japan. At that time, the policy pursued by the Japanese aimed at the complete assimilation of the Koreans, depriving them of their national roots. It was forbidden to pronounce your first and last names in Korean, speak Korean, and even use the Korean alphabet. With the end in 1945. World War II, the Japanese army was expelled from the country, and the colonial phase ended.
After the liberation in 1945, American troops were stationed in the southern part of the country, and Soviet troops in the northern part. Each of these two zones had its own military administration, and this was the first seed of the further division of the country. After the North Korean attack on the South, the Korean War began, which lasted from 1950 to 1953. As a result of the intervention of the UN allied forces and the Chinese army in the conflict, it ended with the final division of the country in 1953. The country was divided into the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in the north, dominated by the communist regime, and the Democratic Republic of Korea in the south.
In the late 80s, political democratization was carried out in South Korea (direct presidential elections were introduced). Along with this, in relations with the North, there was a departure from the Cold War settings, both countries directed their efforts towards the resumption of political relations and peaceful cooperation.
Economy - “miracle on the Hangang River”
Due to its high rates of economic growth, in fiction, Korea, along with Singapore and Taiwan, is called the Asian tiger. If in the 60s. gross national product (per capita income level) was about $100 (comparable to those of underdeveloped countries in Africa and Asia), today it reaches more than $30,000.
The rapid economic growth was caused primarily by the new policy of President Park Chung Hee. They focused their efforts on maintaining close ties between government and business, which helped to ensure import restrictions to protect the economy, encourage investment in consumption and import of raw materials, and technology borrowing. Since the beginning of the first five-year plan was announced, the Korean economy has grown at a high rate for 30 years, and the structure of the economy has changed significantly. If earlier it relied mainly on agriculture and light industry, then in the 70s and 80s it shifted towards heavy industry. Currently, the service sector (insurance companies, hotels, sports and entertainment facilities, restaurants, etc.) has become dominant in the economy, accounting for two-thirds of the country's GDP.
Now the largest industries are: electronics, shipbuilding, automotive, construction and textiles. South Korea is the world's fifth largest car manufacturer and the world's second largest ship and boat manufacturer. The largest enterprises producing automotive products are Hyundai Motor, Kia Motors, GM Daewoo Auto & Technology.
In addition, South Korea is one of the first places in the world in the production of consumer electronics. Among the main electronics manufacturers - LG, Samsung and Daewoo Electronics - produce almost the entire range of electrical products - video, audio equipment and household appliances, which are mainly exported.
About Korean culture and traditions
Despite the relatively small area, about 50 million people live in the country. The main religions are Christianity (26% of the population) and Buddhism (23%), approximately 45% of the population do not identify themselves with any religion.
Respect for elders and hard work are the two main principles on which the culture of Korea is based. From early childhood, children are taught to address their elders using special respectful forms. You can not address the eldest member of the family by name, and even more so to say “you” to him. It is not surprising that among the first questions asked when meeting the interlocutor will be about his age and social status. And they ask about this by no means out of idle interest, but in order to determine their position in relation to a person.
The rooms in the house where Koreans live are multifunctional. Depending on the circumstances, they can be used both as a bedroom and as a dining room. Most Koreans eat and sleep right on the floor, making a bed or setting up a table for a meal. Since ancient times, it was customary in Korea to heat a room with hot air, which was blown right under the floor. This traditional way of heating is called “ondol”, which means hot stone. Now, instead, in modern apartments and houses, hot water circulates under the floor, and the floor itself is usually covered with linoleum.
The main holidays in Korea are Chuseok (harvest and thanksgiving festival) and Seollal (Korean New Year), which are celebrated according to the lunar calendar. On these days, it is customary for the whole family to gather, eat dishes specially prepared for this occasion (for example, tokguk - soup with rice dumplings). Also an important part of the holiday are the rites of remembrance of the ancestors. For celebrations, Koreans love to dress up in traditional Korean attire - hanbok. Just 30-40 years ago, hanbok was an everyday wear, but now it can be seen mainly at celebrations, weddings and national holidays.
The national cuisine of Korea is famous for the variety of dishes and, especially, for the large number of vegetables and herbs used in it. Rice has been the staple food since ancient times. By tradition, a certain number of appetizers were served with the main course (from 3 types in poor families to 12 on the imperial table). Now various types of meat, fish and all kinds of seafood are also widely used. Korean cuisine is unthinkable without kimchi (traditional pickled cabbage). Moreover, each family has its own secret of making kimchi, which is passed down from generation to generation.
What to see in Korea?
If you want to see cutting-edge Korea, then you should first of all visit Seoul, the largest business, financial and commercial center of the country. Most noteworthy: Building - 63 (the highest in the city), the Seoul TV Tower and all kinds of amusement parks (Lotte World, Seoul Land). Gyeongbokgung is also located here - the main of the five large royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. And Changdeokgung Palace is famous for its beautiful garden, which used to be a favorite resting place for kings.
Busan is the second largest city in the country and is called the main maritime capital of Korea. Known for its skyscrapers beautiful beaches and the giant Gwangnam Bridge connecting the two bays.
Fans of ancient antiquity are advised to go to the city of Gyeongju, which was previously the center of the ancient state of Silla. There are many ancient fortresses, historical monuments, museums. Since Buddhism is one of the main religions in the country, a huge number of Buddhist temples have been built here. Notable among them are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Bulguksa Temple and the Haeinsa Temple in the Kayasan Mountains, which houses the famous Buddhist scripture Tripitaka.
More than half of the country's surface is covered with mountains and hills. The most beautiful mountains are the extinct Hallasan volcano on Jeju Island, the Jirisan Mountains in the south (1915 meters), the picturesque Seoraksan Mountains (1709 meters) in the east and others. Almost in the vicinity of any major city you will find national mountain parks. Since special hiking trails have been made in such mountains, you can go there without special equipment. All you need is comfortable shoes and a desire to admire the beauty from the height of the mountain peak.
Fans of skiing will also have a place to demonstrate their sports skills. To the east, Gangwon Province has the highest ski slopes in the country: Yongpyeong Resort is known as the "Asian Mecca of winter sports". It will host the 2018 Winter Olympics.
A large number of beautiful beaches, both on the Yellow Sea and on the East (Japanese) will appeal to lovers of sunbathing and swimming. The pleasure of contact with the sea will be enhanced by a variety of resort infrastructure: various cafes, restaurants, equipment rental and much more. However, the swimming season does not last long: only from July to the end of August.
Separately, we should talk about Jeju Island, which is considered the main resort of South Korea. It has a mild subtropical climate, beautiful beaches, warm sea, mountains and waterfalls. Of the most curious natural objects - Mount Hallasan - a once extinct volcano, where it is interesting to climb at any time of the year. Manjangul Cave is famous for its mountain tunnels, through which streams of red-hot lava flowed during volcanic eruptions. In addition, new places of recreation for tourists are open and constantly appearing on the island: various parks, botanical gardens, museums, for example, chocolate and teddy bears. This island is one of the favorite honeymoon destinations for Koreans.
In conclusion, one cannot fail to mention the demilitarized zone stretching from west to east along the demarcation line (the border with the DPRK). An hour and a half drive from Seoul, there are objects related to the modern history of Korea, namely, the Korean War of 1950-1953. Regular excursions are organized here. Thanks to this, you can visit the so-called Freedom House. This is the main tourist attraction of the DMZ, from where you can see North Korean lands with your own eyes (though through binoculars).
Satellite map of South Korea. Explore satellite map of South Korea online in real time. A detailed map of South Korea is based on high resolution satellite imagery. As close as possible, the satellite map of South Korea allows you to explore in detail the streets, individual houses and sights of South Korea. A map of South Korea from a satellite easily switches to a regular map mode (diagram).
Ancient ruins, natural wonders and cutting-edge cities come together to make your South Korea experience unforgettable. Whether it's the mountains of the Korean Peninsula or the neon lights of the futuristic city of Seoul, you'll find plenty to see while on holiday in South Korea.
Republic of South Korea can trace its history back to half a million years, and history buffs will be able to enjoy the wealth of architectural treasures to be discovered here.
Take Changdeokgung in Seoul, which dates back to 1405. Strolling through its lush palace gardens, members of the royal family and visitors to the city can relax and unwind in tranquil surroundings.
Do you want extreme sports during your vacation in South Korea? Whether you are a windsurfer, whitewater rafter or water skier, the Hangang River is a lot of fun with no worries about equipment rentals and plenty of amenities.
Skiing and snowboarding are also popular here. Head to Gangwon Province for some great pistes and après skiing, a South Korean style of relaxation. If your holiday in South Korea is about nightlife, then you will not be here.
disappointed. Evening time is full of enthusiasm throughout South Korea, especially the nightclubs in Busan and, of course, in Seoul. Enjoy Busan's music, great dance floor and reasonably priced drinks, or visit one of the many Bebop Jazz Clubs in Seoul.
Seoul (kor. 서울, Soul - lit. "capital") is a city, the capital of the Republic of Korea. It forms the only city of special status in the country, divided into 25 self-governing districts. The official name of the city is Seoul Special Status City (kor. 서울특별시 Soul tukpyolsi) Population - 10.1 million people (2015), or 19.5% of the country's population. It forms the Seoul-Incheon agglomeration with a population of 23.5 million people (2015), the fifth largest in the world. It is located in the north-west of the Republic of Korea near the Yellow Sea, on a plain surrounded by mountains, on the banks of the Hangang River, 24 km from the border with the DPRK. The main political, economic and cultural center of the Republic of Korea. One of the leading financial centers in East Asia. Since 1394 under the name Hanyang - the capital of Korea, since 1948 under the name Seoul - the capital of the Republic of Korea. During the Korean War, the city was badly damaged. The remains of the fortress wall with gates have been preserved, the Gyeongbokgung palace complex of the 14th century has been restored. There are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
City name
The word Soul comes from the ancient Korean sable or sorabol ("capital") of the Silla period. Then this word was attributed to the city of Gyeongju, the former capital of Silla. In hanja, gyeon (京) means "capital"; this syllable is found, for example, in the official name of the administrative unit in Seoul during the years of Japanese colonial rule (Gyeongseon / Keijo) and in the names of railways and roads (Gyeongbusong, 경부선 - Seoul-Busan railway line; Gyeongin kosoktoro, 경인고속도로 - expressway Seoul-Incheon).
Chinese transcription
Unlike most Korean place names, the word "Seoul" has no hanja counterpart, and in Chinese the city is referred to by its former name (漢城/汉城, Chinese reading Hancheng, Korean Hanseong; meaning "fortress on the Hangang River", but If desired, it can also be interpreted as a “Chinese fortress”, “Han fortress”). In January 2005, the city government requested that the city's Chinese name be changed to 首爾/首尔 (Shǒu'ěr, Show-er), which is an approximation of the Korean pronunciation in Chinese (in Korean itself, however, 首爾 reads 수이, Su-yi). At the same time, 首 (show) means "first" and "capital". The Chinese adopted this name. This change only affects native Chinese speakers and does not affect the city's Korean name.
Main article: History of Seoul The city's first name, Vireson, was the capital of Baekje since 370 BC. e. In Goryeo times, it was known as Hanseong (漢城, "fortress on the banks of the Hangang River"). During the Joseon Dynasty, which began in 1394, it was the capital of the state and was called Hanyang (漢陽)). During the years of Japanese colonial rule, the administrative unit of Gyeongsong (Jap. 京城, Keijo) was located on the territory of the city, the name Seoul was finally approved in independent Korea in 1946. Baekje, one of the three kingdoms of Korea, was founded in 18 BC. e., with its capital in the city of Vireseong in the area of \u200b\u200bmodern Seoul. Since then, they have kept...
