Republic of Korea · Eastern Asia
View on the interactive map →| Capital | Seoul |
|---|---|
| Population | 51.6 million |
| Area | 100,210 km² (38,691 mi²) |
| Official language(s) | Korean |
| Currency | South Korean won (₩) |
| Region | Asia |
| Subregion | Eastern Asia |
| Continent | Asia |
| Demonym | South Korean |
| Calling code | +82 |
| Time zone | Asia/Seoul |
| Government type | Unitary presidential republic |
|---|---|
| Major political parties | Democratic Party, People Power Party, and others |
| Major religions | Unaffiliated (large), Christianity, Buddhism |
| Important cities | Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon |
Independence / founding: Liberated 1945; Republic of Korea founded 15 August 1948
After the long Joseon dynasty and Japanese colonial rule (1910–1945), Korea was divided at the 38th parallel. The Korean War (1950–53) entrenched the split. South Korea transformed from postwar poverty into a high-tech democracy — the 'Miracle on the Han River' — and a global cultural powerhouse.
| National animal / bird | Korean magpie (national bird); Siberian tiger |
|---|---|
| National dish | Kimchi, bibimbap, Korean barbecue |
| Music | K-pop; traditional pansori |
| National sport | Taekwondo; football |