South Korea - General Info

Geography l Climate l Economy l Government l History l People l Religion

Geography

South Korea is located in East Asia, on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, an extended landmass of far eastern Asia.

Climate

South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are usually long, cold, and dry, whereas summers are short, hot, and humid. Spring and autumn are pleasant but short in duration.

Economy

Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, South Korea has achieved astounding economic growth. It is a phenomenon sometimes referred to as the "Miracle on the Han-gang River". Shipbuilding, semiconductors, and consumer electronics are areas of the strongest developments.

Government

South Korea has developed a successful liberal democracy since the 1960s and the first direct election was held in 1987. The CIA World Factbook describes South Korea's democracy as a "fully functioning modern democracy".

History

In the aftermath of World War II, Korea was divided into communist North Korea and capitalist South Korea.

People

Koreans are from one ethnic family and speak one language, and are believed to be descendants of several Mongol tribes. 

Religion

Some of the religions practiced by the people in South Korea include Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism and Shamanism.