South Korea Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

South Korea, Republic of Korea, State of East Asia; 99 270 km², 51.6 million residents (2019).South Korea encompasses the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and is separated from North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) by a demilitarized zone. South Korea includes some 3,500 small islands off the coast in the south and west, of which 650 are inhabited. The largest of them is Cheju (1,825 km² ) at the far south. The capital is Seoul (10.4 million residents, 2014).

Country facts

Taehan min-guk / Republic of Korea
Country abbreviation: KR
Area: 99 270 km²
Population (2019): 51.6 million residents
Capital: Seoul
Main language: Korean
State: Republic
Head of State: Moon Jae In (President)
Head of Government: Chung Sye Kyun
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 31363
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 30,600
Coin unit: 1 won = 100 chon
Currency code: KRW
Country number (telephony): 82
Internet domain name: kr
Time difference compared to Sweden: +8
National Day: August 15 (Proclamation of the Republic, 1948)

Nature

Land use: forest (64%), agricultural land (21%), other (15%)
Highest mountain: Halla (1,950 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 520 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.0%; birthrate 6 ‰, deathrate 6 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (13%), 15-64 (72%), 65- (15%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 80 years, women 86 years
Infant mortality (2019): 3 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 48 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.903 (place 22 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 82%
Most populous cities (2014): Seoul (10.4 million residents), Busan (3.6 million), Inchon (2.9 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (39%), service (59%)
Exports (2017): US $ 577,400 million
Main export products: semiconductors, vehicles, communication equipment
Main exporting countries: China, USA, Vietnam
Imports (2017): US $ 457,500 million
Main import products: oil, electronic equipment, gas
Main importing countries: China, Japan, USA
Railway network (2016): 4,000 km

Geography of South Korea

Location and Size

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula in East Asia. It is bordered by North Korea to the north, the Sea of Japan (East Sea) to the east, the Yellow Sea to the west, and the Korea Strait to the south, separating it from Japan. South Korea covers an area of approximately 100,210 square kilometers (38,691 square miles), making it slightly smaller than the state of Indiana in the United States. The country’s compact size belies its dense population and the high degree of urbanization that defines its society.

The capital city of South Korea is Seoul, which is situated along the Han River in the northwest part of the country, close to the border with North Korea. Other significant cities include Busan, Incheon, Daegu, and Daejeon, which are important economic, cultural, and administrative centers. The country is strategically positioned in East Asia, making it a critical hub for trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange between regional powers such as China, Japan, and the United States.

Topography and Natural Features

South Korea’s landscape is dominated by mountains, which cover approximately 70% of the country’s land area. These mountains are primarily part of the larger Taebaek Mountain Range, which runs from the northeast to the southeast of the peninsula. The highest peak in South Korea is Mount Hallasan, located on Jeju Island, which rises to 1,947 meters (6,388 feet) above sea level. The mountainous terrain has shaped much of South Korea’s human settlement patterns, with the majority of the population residing in urban areas on the plains or coastal regions.

In addition to the mountains, South Korea is home to many rivers, including the Han, Nakdong, and Geum Rivers, which provide vital water resources for the country’s agriculture and industry. These rivers have historically served as important trade routes and continue to play a significant role in transportation and logistics. The country also has a diverse array of forests, wetlands, and coastal environments, with beautiful beaches and rocky shorelines along its coasts.

South Korea’s landscape is punctuated by its islands, with Jeju Island being the largest and most famous. Located off the southern coast, Jeju is a popular tourist destination, known for its volcanic features, scenic views, and unique culture.

Climate of South Korea

Temperate Climate with Four Seasons

South Korea experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The climate varies significantly between regions, with the northern parts experiencing colder winters and the southern coastal areas having milder conditions. The country is situated in a region that sees both continental and maritime influences, contributing to its seasonal weather patterns.

Summer and Winter

Summers in South Korea are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching over 30°C (86°F) in the southern and central parts of the country. This is compounded by the monsoon season, known as the jangma season, which occurs from June to July. During this period, South Korea experiences heavy rains, particularly in the southwestern parts of the country. The monsoon rains are vital for agriculture but can also cause flooding and landslides, which have sometimes resulted in significant damage to infrastructure and communities.

Winters in South Korea can be cold and dry, with temperatures frequently dipping below freezing, especially in the northern and inland regions. The capital city, Seoul, experiences cold, dry winters, with occasional snowfalls that can blanket the city. The mountainous areas are subject to even colder conditions, with heavy snowfall common in the winter months. The winter season is a key feature of the country’s climate and has shaped many aspects of daily life, including clothing, food, and social traditions.

Spring and Autumn

Spring and autumn are relatively short but are widely regarded as the most pleasant seasons in South Korea. During spring, from March to May, the weather is mild, and the country’s famous cherry blossoms bloom, attracting tourists and locals alike. Autumn, from September to November, is equally pleasant, with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage in the mountains. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking, and are an important part of South Korean cultural life.

People of South Korea

Population and Demographics

South Korea has a population of approximately 51 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The majority of the population is ethnically Korean, with the Korean people sharing a common language, culture, and history. While there are some minority groups, such as Chinese, Vietnamese, and Mongolian communities, South Korea is predominantly homogenous in terms of ethnicity.

The country has a high urbanization rate, with around 81% of the population living in urban areas. Seoul is the largest city and the political, economic, and cultural capital, home to about 10 million people. Other major cities, such as Busan, Incheon, and Daegu, also contribute to the country’s economic and cultural vitality.

South Korea has a relatively low birth rate and a rapidly aging population, which presents challenges for the labor market and social welfare systems. The country’s fertility rate is one of the lowest in the world, prompting concerns about future economic growth and the sustainability of pension systems. Despite these challenges, South Korea has made significant advancements in healthcare and education, resulting in high life expectancy and strong educational outcomes.

Language and Religion

The official language of South Korea is Korean, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population. Korean is a member of the Koreanic language family and is written using the Hangul script, a phonetic alphabet created in the 15th century. Hangul is unique to Korea and is considered one of the most efficient writing systems in the world. English is taught in schools and is widely understood in major urban areas, but it is not as commonly spoken as in some other countries.

Religion in South Korea is diverse, with a significant portion of the population identifying as either Christian or Buddhist. Christianity, particularly Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, is the largest religion in South Korea, with about 29% of the population identifying as Christian. Buddhism also has a long history in the country, and approximately 15% of South Koreans follow Buddhist traditions. In addition, there are smaller communities of Confucians, Muslims, and other religious groups. South Korea is a secular state with freedom of religion guaranteed by the constitution, and religious tolerance is generally practiced.

Education and Health

South Korea places a strong emphasis on education, which is considered a key to personal and national success. The country has one of the most rigorous and competitive education systems in the world, with high rates of literacy and academic achievement. Education is compulsory for children up to the age of 15, and students are required to complete six years of primary school and three years of middle school.

The South Korean education system is known for its intensity, with students facing pressure to excel in school. This is partly due to the country’s highly competitive college admissions process, which places great importance on university entrance exams. Universities such as Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and Korea University are some of the most prestigious in the country and attract top students.

South Korea’s healthcare system is highly advanced, providing universal coverage to its citizens. The country has a strong public healthcare system, which is supplemented by private healthcare providers. South Korea is known for its excellent medical services, including advanced medical technology, high-quality hospitals, and effective public health programs. The country has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, thanks to its focus on health education, disease prevention, and healthcare accessibility.

Economy of South Korea

Key Industries

South Korea has one of the largest and most dynamic economies in Asia, with key industries including manufacturing, electronics, automobiles, petrochemicals, and steel production. The country is known for its advanced technology sector, particularly in consumer electronics, semiconductors, and telecommunications. Major companies such as Samsung, LG, and SK Hynix are global leaders in electronics, and South Korea is a key player in the global semiconductor market, which forms a significant part of the country’s export economy.

The automotive industry is another major sector of South Korea’s economy, with companies like Hyundai, Kia, and SsangYong producing vehicles that are exported worldwide. The shipbuilding industry is also strong, with South Korea being one of the largest producers of ships and maritime vessels.

South Korea has developed a highly competitive manufacturing sector, and the country is also known for its strong petrochemical, steel, and heavy industries. Agriculture plays a smaller role in the country’s GDP, though South Korea remains one of the leading producers of rice, ginseng, and vegetables.

Economic Challenges

Despite its impressive economic growth and development, South Korea faces several challenges. Income inequality has been a growing concern in recent years, with wealth being concentrated in large conglomerates, or “chaebols,” which dominate the country’s economy. The gap between urban and rural areas has also led to disparities in wealth, access to services, and employment opportunities.

The country’s aging population poses significant challenges for the labor market, healthcare, and social welfare systems. South Korea is working to address these challenges through policies aimed at improving fertility rates, encouraging more inclusive growth, and expanding social programs for the elderly.

The country is also heavily reliant on exports, which makes its economy vulnerable to global economic fluctuations. Tensions with neighboring countries, such as North Korea and China, can also affect South Korea’s economic stability, particularly in terms of trade relations and regional security.

Government of South Korea

Political System

South Korea is a democratic republic with a presidential system of government. The president is both the head of state and head of government and is elected for a single five-year term. The president holds significant executive powers, including overseeing the military, setting foreign policy, and appointing key government officials.

The National Assembly, South Korea’s unicameral legislature, consists of 300 members who are elected for four-year terms through a combination of direct and proportional representation. The National Assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive branch. Political parties in South Korea are typically aligned with conservative or liberal ideologies, and elections are highly competitive.

South Korea is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It is also a member of the Group of 20 (G20) major economies.

Legal System

South Korea’s legal system is based on civil law, with strong influences from European legal traditions, particularly German law. The judiciary is independent, and the country has a comprehensive legal framework for civil, criminal, and administrative matters. The Constitutional Court is responsible for interpreting the constitution and overseeing the protection of human rights, while the Supreme Court is the highest court in the country.

The legal system in South Korea emphasizes fairness and efficiency, and the country has a relatively low level of corruption compared to other countries in the region. However, challenges remain, including the backlog of cases in some courts and concerns about the influence of powerful business interests in the legal system.

Culture of South Korea

Arts and Music

South Korea has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of artistic expression in literature, music, and visual arts. Traditional Korean music, known as gugak, features distinctive instruments such as the gayageum (a stringed instrument) and the janggu (a drum), and is performed at cultural ceremonies and festivals. The country is also known for its traditional dances, such as the buchaechum, a fan dance that is often performed during holidays and celebrations.

Korean pop culture, particularly K-pop, has become a global phenomenon in recent years. Artists like BTS, BLACKPINK, and EXO have achieved international success, bringing Korean music to audiences around the world. The rise of K-pop has also contributed to the global popularity of Korean fashion, beauty products, and entertainment.

Festivals and Traditions

South Korea celebrates many traditional and cultural festivals throughout the year. One of the most important is Seollal, the Lunar New Year, which is celebrated with family gatherings, traditional food like tteokguk (rice cake soup), and ancestral rites. Chuseok, often referred to as Korean Harvest Festival, is another major holiday, where families reunite to honor their ancestors and share food. These holidays are marked by feasts, games, and ceremonies that celebrate Korean heritage and family.

Cuisine

Korean cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and deeply rooted in cultural traditions. One of the most well-known aspects of Korean food is the emphasis on fermentation, particularly in dishes like kimchi (fermented vegetables, often cabbage or radishes), which is considered a staple of the Korean diet. Other popular dishes include bibimbap (a mixed rice dish with vegetables and meat), bulgogi (marinated beef), and samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly). Korean cuisine is also known for its variety of side dishes, or banchan, which accompany every meal.

Korean cuisine places great emphasis on balance, with meals often featuring a combination of flavors and textures such as spicy, sour, salty, and sweet. The country’s dining culture is communal, with meals often shared family-style, reflecting the importance of social harmony in Korean society.