South Korea is one of the smaller nations in Asia, with a size
comparable to the state of Indiana.
What it lacks in size it makes up for in abundant culture, turbulent
history, exquisite cuisine and a generous and welcoming society.
The Korean peninsula has been literally and figuratively stuck
between a rock and a hard place, namely Japan and China, for most of its existence.
The region was prosperous under the three kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje
and Silla during the first four centuries AD; until the Mongolians raided the land and
built an empire.
The 16th century brought the end of the Mongolian Empire and the
beginning of a massive game of tug-of-war between China and Japan over the strategic
landmass.
After World War II Korea finally broke free from Japan, with the USSR
managing the North and the United States occupying the South.
Today the North and South are two sovereign nations separated by a
demilitarised zone.
South Korea is officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK) and
commonly referred to simply as Korea.
Despite the fact that Seoul was largely burned to the ground
during the Korean War (1950-53), the northern part of the capital city is still home to
hundreds of spectacular palaces and shrines.
The Chosun Dynasty's Gyeongbokgung Palace is a 5.4 million square foot
landmark with a 500-year history and stands among the remaining four palaces in Seoul.
Nearly an entire day is necessary to explore the regal palace in all
its magnificence.
The Jongmyo Royal Shrine is a perfect next stop, as it was where the
Chosun Dynasty worshipped. On the first Sunday of May each year a traditional memorial
ceremony is held at the Shrine with all the grandeur of the occasion 500 years past.
The southern part of Seoul is the commercial centre of the city and
boasts a fascinating blend of traditional and hyper-modern architecture. It is also home
to World Cup Stadium, intricately weaving shopping streets and even an amusement park,
Lotte World.
Make sure to visit the city gates, and then venture beyond into the
strikingly lush and green landscape to travel Korea more personally.
Korea has a temperate clime, which results in heavier rain in the
summer months (July and August) and a drier winter.
Winter is white and snowy all over Korea and the ski season from
November to March is extremely popular.
There are 13 ski resorts in South Korea alone!
After a day on the slopes it is common to relax in one of the many
spas with natural hot spring baths.
Summer is extremely crowded and very wet in Korea. For milder weather
it is best to travel Korea in the spring or fall.
Travelling to South Korea any time of year is sure to be an
exciting and rewarding experience, regardless of the weather!
By Frank Johnson.
Related Links About South Korea
South Korea
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