South Korea
Geography
Since 1948, the Korean peninsula is split into two nations: the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Korea forms a peninsula that stretches for 1100 kilometers at the eastern tip of the Asian continent, bordered in the west by the yellow sea, by the Japan Sea in the east, and by the strait of Korea and the East China Sea to the south. The landscape is made up of mountainous regions partially covered in forests that are separated by deep and narrow valleys in the east. In the West and the South lie cultivated coastal plains. The tallest peak is an extinct volcano, Paektu, which rises to an altitude of 2774 meters above sea level close to the northern border with Manchuria.
South Koreans say their culture is a mixture of Confucianism, Korean, and national pride. The country’s superb landscape has also contributed to forging their national identity: they are fascinated by nature, especially their mountains. Wherever you go, you will see Koreans enjoying the fresh air, wearing the trendiest sports outfits, always ready to climb higher. The country features many national parks, including the granite peaks and cascades of Mount Seoraksan and the strange rock formations of Mount Wolchulsan, which are sure to delight any hiking enthusiast.