The
Korean peninsula extends southward from the eastern end of the Asian
continent. The peninsula is roughly 1,030 km (612 miles) long and
175 km (105 miles) wide at its narrowest point. Mountains cover 70%
of Korea's land mass, making it one of the most mountainous regions
in the world. The lifting and folding of Korea's granite and limestone
base has created breathtaking landscapes of scenic hills and valleys.
The mountain range that stretches the length of the east coast plunges
steeply into the East Sea, while along the southern and western coasts
the mountains descend gradually to the coastal plains that produce
the bulk of Korea's agricultural crops, especially rice. The Korean
peninsula is divided just slightly north of the 38th parallel. The
democratic Republic of Korea in the south and communist North Korea
are separated by a demilitarized zone.
Population
South Korea's 99,268sq.km, including 3000 islands, is populated by
48.6 million people (2004). Administratively, the Republic of Korea
consists of nine provinces; the capital Seoul; and the six metropolitan
cities of Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, Daejeon and Ulsan. In total,
there are 77 cities and 88 counties.
Four Distinct Seasons
Korea's climate is regarded as a continental climate from a temperate
standpoint and a monsoonal climate from a precipitation standpoint.
The climate of Korea is characterized by four distinct seasons: spring,
summer, fall, and winter.
Spring: Spring lasts from late March to May and is warm. Various flowers,
including the picturesque cherry blossom, cover the nation's mountains
and fields during this time. (~13C)
Summer: Summer lasts from June to early September. It is a hot and
humid time of the year. (~28C) Autumn: Autumn lasts from September
to November, and produces mild weather. It is the best season for
visiting Korea. (~16C)
Winter: Winter lasts from December to mid-March. It can be cold during
this time due to the influx of cold Siberian air. Snow in the northern
and eastern parts of Korea makes for favorable skiing conditions.
(~ -10C)
The Korean Language and Hangeul
Hangeul (the Korean "alphabet") was invented in 1443, during
the reign of King Sejong, and is composed of 10 vowels and 14 consonants.
Hangeul has 11 compound vowels, 5 glottal sounds. The chart below
represents the 24 Hangeul letters and their romanized equivalents.
The "Hunminjeongeum," a historical document which provides
instructions to educate people on the use of Hangeul, is registered
with UNESCO. UNESCO awards a '"King Sejong Literacy Prize,''
every year in memory of the inventor of Hangeul. |
GEOGRAPHY
