South cor. Republic of Korea (South Korea). Religion and culture

- (Republic of Korea) a state in East Asia, occupying the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and the adjacent islands; borders on the north with the DPRK (see Democratic People's Republic of Korea), on the west it is washed by the Yellow Sea, on the east... ... Geographical encyclopedia

South K. occupies the south. part of the Korean Peninsula. Pl. 98.5 thousand km2. Hac. OK. 41 million people (1984). Capital Seoul. B adm. respect consists of 9 provinces; in the department adm. units are allocated Seoul and Busan. The currency unit is the won. General... ... Geological encyclopedia

Noun, number of synonyms: 1 country (281) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin. 2013… Synonym dictionary

SOUTH KOREA- Territory 99.6 thousand sq. km, population 42 million people (1990). It is a developed industrial and agricultural country. Rice is cultivated on irrigated lands, and barley and wheat on rain-fed lands. Livestock farming is dominated by pig farming and cattle breeding... World sheep farming

Coordinates: 36°00′00″ N. w. 128°00′00″ E. d. / 36° n. w. 128° E. d. ... Wikipedia

South Korea- South Korea … Russian spelling dictionary

See the article KOREA... Collier's Encyclopedia

South Korea at the Olympic Games IOC Code: K ... Wikipedia

South Korea at the Olympic Games IOC code: KOR ... Wikipedia

IOC code: KO ... Wikipedia

Books

• South Korea, Kiryanov O. Category: Travel Stories. Travelogues
• South Korea, Kiryanov Oleg Vladimirovich, Do South Koreans really eat dogs and, if not, what do they eat, what are the features of South Korean cinema, are there many surnames in Korea, why is plastic surgery so popular there and how to look... Category: Tourism business Publisher: RIPOL CLASSIC, Manufacturer:

The Republic of Korea (South Korea) lies in the northeastern part of Asia, in the south of the Korean Peninsula. In the west the country is washed by the waters of the Yellow Sea, and in the east by the Eastern Sea. In the northwest, the Korean Peninsula is adjacent to China, and in the southeast, South Korea is separated from Japan by the Korea Bay. At one time, this geopolitical situation brought the country many troubles: Japanese colonial rule, the tragic division into North and South Korea and the devastating Korean War. Moreover, at the moment, the Democratic Republic of Korea and the DPRK (North Korea) have many political contradictions and are separated by a demilitarized zone. And yet, despite all the past adversities, to date, South Korea has achieved significant economic and political development, which is reflected in the standard of living of its population.

South Korea attracts tourists with an abundance of Buddhist temples and monasteries, as well as many delightful palaces and statues that can tell about the interesting history of this country. The local natural landscapes are also noteworthy, thanks to which Korea is called the “land of morning freshness.” By the way, here you can not only spend time on the pristine beaches and hot springs, but also engage in any winter sports at one of the high-class ski resorts.

Capital	Seoul
Population	50,004,441 people
Population density	480 people/km²
	Korean
Religion	Buddhism and Christianity
Form of government	presidential republic
	South Korean won (KRW)
Timezone
International dialing code
Domain zone
Electricity

Climate and weather

South Korea lies in the zone moderate monsoon climate, so all seasons of the year are clearly visible here. Autumn and spring here are quite warm and short, with most of the sunny days occurring in the spring months. The summer season is characterized by high humidity and hot weather. The air temperature during this period is +21...+25 °C, but sometimes rises to +35 °C. The monsoon season lasts from late June to mid-July, which is called here. chanma" The wettest and hottest month is August. The end of September is characterized by clear and dry weather, making this period the most pleasant time of the year. The winter season is quite cold (up to −10 °C) and dry.

The most comfortable and enjoyable time to visit this country is the period from April to mid-October, and the ski season here lasts from November to April.

Nature

The country's landscape is quite diverse; 70% of its territory is occupied by low mountains and hills. The main mountain range, which is called East Korean mountains, lies parallel to the east coast. There are many small islands around the peninsula, the largest of which is Jeju.

The main rivers of South Korea are considered Nekhtongan And Hangan, on which Seoul stands. Among other significant rivers of the country it is also worth mentioning Kumgang, Imjingan, Bukhangan And Somjingang. The local flora is represented by mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, as well as subtropical forests in the south and bamboo thickets on the coast.

Attractions

South Korea is an amazing and multifaceted country where ancient architectural monuments, modern skyscrapers and amazing nature are harmoniously combined, so the excursion program here is very rich.

Most of the attractions are concentrated in Seoul. First of all this four royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty And Gyeongbokgung era royal palace. Also worth highlighting:

• Myeongdong Catholic Cathedral,
• theater "Nanta"
• Posingak bell tower,
• Sungkyunkwan Institute,
• concert hall of the Munhwa Ilbo newspaper,
• a great many museums.

Other cities in the country are no less interesting. For example, Incheon is a center of pottery production. In addition, it is famous for its thermal springs, magnificent parks and Munhaksanseong Fortress.

The city of Suwon is famous for its ancient Hwaseong Fortress, Everland Amusement Park, Sillux Temple and Tomb of Sejong the Great.

Also notable is the city of Gyeongju, which is the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla. It houses the oldest Buddhist Bulguksa Temple, Oneung (“Five Tombs”), Cheomseongdae Ancient Observatory and Seokguram Cave Temple.

No less interesting is the city of Andong, which is recognized as the cradle of Confucianism. A great many Confucian temples and schools have been preserved here, as well as the traditional homes of ancient noble families.

It is also worth noting cities such as Busan and Daegu, where you can visit many ancient temples, tombs and monasteries.

Another remarkable place in the country is Ganghwa Island, where there are a great many dolmens, as well as Tangun altar, Chondynsa Monastery, ancient fortress walls and forts.

Also, having visited South Korea, you can’t help but see demilitarized zone And Seoraksan Mountains which are considered one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Nutrition

Traditional South Korean cuisine is distinguished by an abundance of spicy dishes, which are based on rice, fish and fresh vegetables. The most typical local treats are unleavened rice porridge " dad", pilaf " bibimbap", rice cakes " chhaltok"and sandwiches made from rice, vegetables and omelettes. Well, for greater variety, they are served with all sorts of snacks: pickled vegetables, a spicy dish of radish or sauerkraut “ kimchi", bean curd " tuba", acorn jelly " tothorimuk" and etc.

Soups also occupy a very important place in South Korean cuisine. For example, spicy seafood soup " haemul thang"or soybean soup with clams and egg yolk" sundubu jige" It is also impossible to imagine the local cuisine without fish and seafood. Among the treats made from these ingredients, it is worth noting fried fish " sanseong gui", finely chopped raw fish " hwe", abalone porridge " jeonbokjuk" and seafood solyanka " Haemul Jeongol" Well, among meat dishes, preference is given to pork and beef. Most often they are used to prepare kebabs " bulgogi", fried ribs " kalbi"and dumplings" pussy».

The role of desserts in local cuisine is played by fresh and candied fruits, as well as walnut-shaped cookies called “ hokwachja" They practically don’t drink tea in South Korea; instead they use various decoctions and herbal tinctures (“ chha"), as well as rice and barley broth. Well, the choice of alcoholic drinks - both local and imported varieties - is quite large here. The most popular traditional drinks are rice liquor " I think"and rice wine" McCory" Local beer is also most often made from rice and has a rather unique taste, but high-quality imported beer is always on sale.

If we talk directly about restaurants, here they are most often Korean, Chinese, Japanese and European. Moreover, Japanese restaurants are considered the most expensive and prestigious, but European establishments are suitable for middle-income travelers.

Accommodation

South Korea has a very developed tourism infrastructure. Today there is a great variety of hotels and hotels. It is worth saying right away that the local hotel classification differs significantly from the European one. All Korean hotels are divided into five categories: super-deluxe and deluxe, as well as first, second and third class hotels. Hotels of the first two categories offer luxurious rooms, restaurants, bars, conference rooms, fitness centers, swimming pools, tennis courts, spas and shops; first class hotels correspond to European hotels of the 3*+ category, and hotels of the second and third classes - 3* and 2*+.

For those who prefer an economical holiday, we recommend staying at one of the small city hotels called “ yegwans" The rooms in such establishments are small, but they always have a TV, air conditioning, telephone, shower and toilet. Also in Korea there is a developed network of youth hostels, which are analogues of European hostels.

Well, those who want to get acquainted with the Korean way of life and the culture of the country should check into a traditional guest house “ hanok"or even to a Buddhist monastery.

Entertainment and relaxation

South Korea will appeal to both fans of active entertainment and lovers of a relaxing pastime. In winter, the country is attractive for its ski resorts Phoenix Park, Muju And Yeonphen, as well as themed festivals, such as the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival. Well, in the summer, resorts with thermal springs and wide beaches are in great demand here ( Jeju, Busan And Namsam). By the way, Jeju Island is popular both among family vacation lovers and among fans of diving and fishing.

For vacationers with the whole family, we recommend visiting grand amusement parks (for example, Lotte World or Seoul Grand Park), and lovers of educational recreation should come here from mid-March to June, when the magnificent time of flowering trees begins.

Fans of nightlife will also like it in South Korea, since its large cities have entire areas with a sea of ​​lights, huge nightclubs, noisy bars, karaoke and other entertainment venues. And for fans of various types of art, Korea has interesting museums, modern cinemas, concert halls, art galleries and theaters.

South Korea is also famous for many interesting holidays and festivals. Among them, it is worth especially noting Sol (Lunar New Year), Liquor and Rice Cake Festival, Buddha's Birthday, Chunghyangje Festival (Korean Romeo and Juliet), Wild Green Tea Festival, Shamanic Tan-O Festival, Ginseng Festival, traditional Chuseok Festival (harvest festival) and the International Biennale of Contemporary Art.

Purchases

With a wide variety of shopping malls, department stores, markets, duty-free shops and specialty shopping areas, South Korea is considered a shopping paradise. Moreover, the selection of goods here is simply colossal, and their prices are moderate.

Of course, the largest department stores and shops are located in Seoul, or rather in the shopping area Myeongdong, where a whole network of underground shopping galleries is located. In addition, the capital has a great variety of small antique and art shops, as well as specialty markets such as the Yongsan Consumer Electronics Market.

Among tourists, the most popular products are cosmetics, household appliances, jewelry, furs, outerwear, silk and leather goods. Traditional souvenirs here include porcelain, ceramics, jewelry, masks, shell products, fans, dolls in traditional costumes and lacquerware with mother-of-pearl. You should also not forget about ginseng products, including tea, extracts, tinctures, ginseng chocolate and much more. We recommend that you pay attention to Korean antiques, which are valued all over the world. However, it should be noted that the export of items older than 50 years is prohibited here.

Transport

The main international airport, Incheon, is located 52 kilometers from Seoul and is connected to it by a high-speed highway. Within the country, the most convenient way to travel is by railways, which connect all major settlements. There are four types of trains: Mugunghwa high-speed, KTX super-fast, Thong-il passenger and Saemaeul express. There are also many intercity buses in South Korea, both standard and deluxe.

Public transport in the country is very well developed and is low in cost. It is represented by buses and taxis, and in Incheon, Seoul, Daegu and Busan there are also extensive subway systems. Tickets for any type of public transport are sold in vending machines, special kiosks and metro ticket offices.

Taxis in Korea are divided into 2 types: regular and deluxe. Deluxe taxis are equipped with special devices for simultaneous translation.

Companies offering car rentals are most often located in hotels and airports. To use their services, you will need to present a driver's license and passport. Moreover, the driver must be at least 21 years old and have 1 year of driving experience.

Connection

South Korea boasts a modern and high-quality communication system. Payphones are found on every corner here and are divided into three types: those that operate on magnetic cards, those that operate on international credit cards, and “coin-operated” ones. A call abroad can be made from any “card” payphone or from a hotel.

Mobile communication works as standard CDMA-1800. A phone that supports this range can be rented at the international airport.

Internet access is available in most hotels, as well as in gaming rooms and internet cafes.

Safety

South Korea is recognized as one of the safest countries in the world: drug addiction is practically absent here, cases of robbery and pickpocketing are very rare, and car theft is considered a real sensation. Moreover, the traditional morality of society in a given country is so strong that cases of rudeness or open rudeness are excluded here. The attitude towards tourists in Korea is very friendly, although there may be problems with understanding, since there are still very few English-speaking people here.

This idyll also has its own fly in the ointment. The thing is that Korea ranks first in the world in terms of the number of victims of car accidents. Therefore, you should cross the streets here very carefully.

No special vaccinations are required to visit Korea, but international health insurance is required.

Business climate

Economically, South Korea is a highly developed country with favorable conditions for doing business and a high level of per capita income. The country's main economic sectors are litigation, the automotive industry, mechanical engineering, high-tech manufacturing and oil refining. Moreover, large industrial conglomerates dominate here (“ chaebols"), which are engaged in production, trade and provision of services. The largest and most influential chaebols are Samsung, Hyundai, Daewoo and LG.

Opening your own company in South Korea is quite simple, and the most promising areas for private business here are the service sector, trade, tourism and finance.

Real estate

A stable financial and political environment, as well as a high standard of living, make South Korean real estate a very attractive investment. The consequence of this is high demand for both housing and commercial space. Today, non-residents of the country can buy local real estate using a simple scheme. To do this, the buyer will need to obtain permission from the municipal authorities. And in the case of the purchase of a commercial property, proof of the legal origin of the invested funds may also be required.

When entering the country, you will need to present a written customs declaration to the customs official. All arriving passengers pass through the customs area along the red, white or green corridor. Those who do not have items that are subject to mandatory declaration use the green corridor. Those who carry items that are not exempt from duty pass along the white corridor. Well, those who are suspected of transporting any prohibited items or have allegedly submitted an inaccurate declaration are sent to the red corridor. Detailed information about goods that are subject to declaration, as well as about all items prohibited for import, can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea or from the Incheon Airport Customs Information Bureau.

Visa information

To travel to the Republic of Korea, citizens of the Russian Federation need a visa. Visa-free stay for up to 30 days is allowed only to those who have previously visited the country at least 4 times in the past 2 years, or 10 times in total. Also, citizens of the Russian Federation are allowed visa-free stay on Jeju Island, but entry into other regions of the country is prohibited.

Korean visas come in several types: short-term (C), long-term (D, E, H) and special visas for foreign compatriots (F-4).

Moscow Embassy of the Republic of Korea located at st. Plyushchikha, 56.

The consulates of the Republic of Korea are located in St. Petersburg(Nekrasova str., 32A), Irkutsk(Gagarin Boulevard, 44) and Vladivostok(Pologaya st., 19).

The advantages of South Korea are healing mineral springs and clean sandy beaches, magnificent monuments of ancient dynasties and excellent ski resorts. Modern Seoul, colorful Incheon and the resort islands of Jeju - all about South Korea: visa, map, tours, photos.

• Last minute tours to South Korea

The land of morning freshness has long been firmly among the top five most popular holiday destinations among residents of our Far East. Every week, charters filled with Russian tourists rush from the Primorsky Territory to the first-class beach and ski resorts of South Korea with periodic visits to Seoul. The rest of Russia exhales enviously, because for them this is the same expensive exotic as Japan, Australia or the Philippines. However, when choosing a vacation from such countries, you should think 10 times about Korea.

A skyscraper tinted with 24-karat gold, a two-headed turtle, drunken bullfights, 50 varieties of tangerines, old women pearl divers, toilets with remote controls, ubiquitous Wi-Fi and sauerkraut... No, this is not a crazy person’s wish list, but everyday reality this small but amazingly picturesque and diverse country. But don’t be afraid: the 22nd century that has come for them does not mean at all that there will be nothing to do in South Korea for tourists accustomed to more conservative entertainment. The luxurious beaches of Jeju Island, well-equipped slopes of the South Korean Alps, ancient monasteries and pagodas await them.

Regions and resorts of South Korea

The song Gangnam Style is dedicated to Gangnam, the video for which was included in the Guinness Book of Records for an unprecedented number of views and likes on YouTube.

Insadong Street is famous for its antique and handicraft shops, where you can buy anything from ceramic tableware to antique watches. Hongdae is home to art galleries, vintage shops and trendy nightclubs, while Itaewon is a foodie paradise with a string of colorful restaurants. Apgujeong is home to expensive boutiques and department stores, and bustling Myeongdong Street is home to Korea's first Catholic cathedral.

The second largest after the capital is Busan with magnificent beaches. They are sandy, well-groomed and very picturesque, the most popular is Haeundae with classic resort entertainment and a large aquarium. For an excursion, it is better to go to the Geumjeong-gu area, where the impressive Pomosa temple complex is located, for shopping - to central Busanjingu, and for wellness - to Dongnae-gu with its famous spas.

Time difference from Moscow

6 hours

• with Kaliningrad

• with Samara

• with Yekaterinburg

• with Omsk

• with Krasnoyarsk

• with Irkutsk

• with Yakutsk

• with Vladivostok

• from Severo-Kurilsk

• with Kamchatka

Climate of South Korea

Most of the country is located in a temperate climate zone, where the seasons are clearly felt. Spring and autumn are quite short and warm, with the most sunny days occurring from March to May. Summers are hot and humid, temperatures can reach up to +35 °C. The monsoon season ("chanma") usually begins in late June and continues until mid-to-late July. August is hot and humid. Autumn in late September brings continental winds and clear, dry weather, making it the most pleasant time of the year. Winters are cold (up to −10 °C) and dry, with periodic precipitation in the form of snow or rain. The best time to visit the country is from late April to October. The ski season in Korea opens at the end of November and lasts until April.

Maps of South Korea

Visa and customs

Russian citizens do not require a visa to enter South Korea for up to 60 days. But it’s still worth taking out a health insurance policy for the entire duration of the trip in advance.

The import and export of national and foreign currency is not limited; cash over 10,000 USD must be declared. Amounts allowed for export do not exceed those specified in the declaration, which must be kept before leaving the country. The limit on the import and export of local currency is 8,000,000 KRW. When leaving, unspent funds can be exchanged for dollars, but only if you have a receipt from a local bank confirming the previous exchange for won. If there is none, a maximum of 100 USD will be exchanged at the border. Prices on the page are as of November 2018.

Jewelry, expensive watches, photographic equipment, fur, firearms, knives and expensive foreign-made items are also subject to declaration. Persons over 19 years of age are allowed to import duty-free one liter bottle of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco, 60 ml of perfume, gifts worth up to 400 USD.

Coins, seeds, fresh fruit, walnuts, soil, potted plants, as well as pornography, political materials and any printed, audio or video products from communist countries are prohibited from being imported.

Pets require an international veterinary certificate issued no earlier than 30 days before entering South Korea and a certificate of vaccination against rabies.

The export of antiques, precious metals and archaeological finds without special permission is prohibited.

Tax free

In South Korea, there is a Tax-free system: for purchases over 30,000 KRW, 10% VAT is returned. If the store is marked with the Global Blue logo, just ask for a special form at the checkout, enter your personal data and stamp it at customs upon departure, presenting the purchased goods in undamaged packaging.

Tax-free return counters are located at the capital's Incheon and Gimpo airports, as well as at Daegu Airport. If the tax amount does not exceed 3,000,000 KRW (in Gimpo - 177,000 KRW), cash will be issued directly at the counter. Otherwise, you will have to send stamped Tax-free receipts to the Global Blue office by mail and wait for the funds to be credited to your bank card.

How to get to South Korea

Shopping

Traditional souvenirs: embroidery, porcelain, textiles and macrame, jewelry, paintings, masks, wood and shell products, dolls in traditional costumes, fans. The country sells very beautiful lacquerware inlaid with mother-of-pearl (boxes, snuff boxes, etc.). Korea is the only country in the world where women have been engaged in pulling shells and other valuable things from the bottom of the sea into the light of day for centuries. “Hene”, or “women of the sea” are stocky and broad-shouldered mules, who sink to the bottom of the sea every day in any weather without any scuba gear. As you might guess, absolute matriarchy reigns in the families of these ladies: fragile Korean men have no chance of withstanding the psychological pressure from their powerful swimmer lovers.

Korea is the only country in the world where women have been engaged in pulling shells and other valuable things from the bottom of the sea for centuries.

Korean ceramics are a very elegant gift. When purchasing one, you should consider color, sound (we made no typos) and workmanship. If ceramics have a transparent, smooth surface and clear sound, it is considered high quality. We should not forget about ginseng. It can be bought in different forms: tea, tinctures and extracts, dried, dried in honey, ginseng in syrup, in alcohol, there is even ginseng chocolate and lollipops.

Another worthy souvenir from Korea is the traditional hanbok costume. It can be purchased at Dongdaemun, Gwangjang, Namdaemun and Insadong markets. These markets are good for their reasonable prices, and at Insadong, in addition, you can choose the most fashionable hanbok designs.

It is worth paying attention to Korean antiques: interior items, calligraphy, ceramics, books, etc. The largest accumulation of valuable goods is observed at the Changanpyong Market in Seoul. But you should remember that it is prohibited to export items older than 50 years from the country.

Large department stores are open from 10:30 to 20:00, small shops open earlier and close later on any day of the week. Seoul and other large cities in Korea have the widest shopping opportunities: many arcades, department stores, duty-free stores, specialized shopping areas, and finally, markets (where most purchases are made).

South Korea

Cuisine and restaurants of South Korea

In Korea, there are 4 national cuisines: Korean, Chinese, Japanese and European. In all settlements of the country there are many restaurants, canteens and snack bars of various profiles. Japanese restaurants are the most expensive and prestigious. Chinese dishes are simpler; dishes there are divided into two categories: “sixa” and “yeri”. “Siksa” are relatively cheap (3000-6000 KRW) and easy to prepare, “yeri” are noticeably more expensive (10,000-40,000 KRW), complex in composition, prepared only in large portions - enough for at least two.

A European restaurant in Korea is a place where a middle-income person goes when he wants to eat something unusual. The menu in most of these eateries is not very diverse: the main and often the only dish is “tonkas”, a type of schnitzel baked in a thin layer of dough.

In Korea, they eat a lot of rice: they make chhalteok bread, pabi porridge, spicy pilaf with vegetables “bibimbap”, kimbap rolls and other delicacies from it. The side dish most often served with them is “kimchi” - all kinds of pickled, salted and pickled, hotly seasoned vegetables. The most popular soups are soy “sundubu-jige” with shellfish and egg, spicy “hemultkhan” with seafood, rich “kalbitkhan” with beef ribs and hot soup “maeungtang”.

The main extreme of Korean cuisine is posinthan dog meat soup. True, now it is prepared extremely rarely - the indignation of the West has yielded results.

Meat treats include marinated bulgogi beef in sesame oil and soy sauce, grilled kalbi beef ribs, takkalbi chicken stew and mandu dumplings. Seafood dishes are also held in high esteem: raw fish “hwe”, fried “sangseong gui”, stew “hyemul jongol”, flatbread “pajeon”, squid “ogino bokgeum” and octopus “nakji”.

Fruits are usually served for dessert, and instead of tea they drink a variety of decoctions and tinctures. The most popular drinks with a high degree of alcohol are rice wine "makkori" and rice liquor "soju".

The cheapest food is sold on the streets: flatbreads for 500-1000 KRW, dumplings for 2000-3000 KRW, octopus buns for 2000 KRW, shrimp in batter for 4000 KRW - tasty, satisfying and safe. Simple cafes are also inexpensive for locals: 5,000-10,000 KRW for lunch for two. A burger in Western fast food will cost 9,000 KRW, coffee in a coffee shop - 4,000-5,000 KRW. Dinner with alcohol in a good restaurant - 30,000-50,000 KRW per person.

Korean restaurants are the most universal and democratic: both in terms of prices and in terms of the audience. The man and designer Artemy Lebedev advises doubting tourists: if you want to dine in a guaranteed good restaurant, look for an official sign with a white flower on the facade of the establishment, where it says: Good Restaurant.

Guides in South Korea

Entertainment and attractions

Multifaceted South Korea is an incredible mix of ancient sights and modern monuments. It’s better to start getting acquainted with them in Seoul - the impressions will definitely last for a long time.

The most spectacular architectural structures are the royal residences in the traditional Korean style, united in the “Five Great Palaces” group. The largest is Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in 1395, almost immediately after the Joseon Dynasty ascended the throne. exactly preserved its original appearance despite all wars and disasters. Jongmyo of the 14th century, dedicated to the memory of the kings of the Joseon dynasty.

Another iconic location is the Demilitarized Zone, a sad monument to the division of the peninsula. Its most obvious symbol is a sculptural group depicting two families, personifying the South and the North and trying to connect the halves of a large ball. The main points of the excursion are Unification Park, an underground tunnel and an empty border station.

Thermal springs and water parks of South Korea

Koreans care about their own health and like to combine business with pleasure. Proof of this is the unique water parks, where there are baths at healing thermal springs and all kinds of attractions. For example, Sorak Waterpia (office site in English) at the foot of the Seoraksan Mountains is famous for its 49-degree water with alkaline components and negative ions, useful for arthritis, geriatric and neuralgic diseases. And after soaking in the hot tubs, you can have fun on steep slides, rushing waterfalls, playgrounds and wave pools.

The pride of the Danyang Aquaworld water park (office site in English) is the outdoor baths with magnificent views of the mountains. There is a separate swimming pool for children, special spas and saunas for couples, and baths with mineralized water, hydromassage and other procedures for those who want to improve their health.

The Asan Spavis water park (Chungcheongnam-do province) offers relaxation in saunas with yellow clay and aroma baths with jasmine.

The famous “SpaPlus” (office site in English) has been opened in Incheon, where traditional Korean saunas (amethyst, jade, oxygen, clay, coal) and unusual pools (herbal, fruit, pine and even wine) are equipped. In the Bugok Hawaiian Island Park (Gyeongsangnam-do province) you can relax in caves, and in Greenland (Gwangju) you can relax in baths with healing fish.

Holidays and Events

Holidays in South Korea are celebrated noisily and brightly. On the 8th day of the 4th month of the lunar calendar, they congratulate Buddha on his birthday: they hang paper lanterns symbolizing enlightenment, decorate houses with flowers, and organize theatrical processions. And they always water the Buddha figurines with sweet flower tea, which washes away all the bad things that have happened over the year.

Seollal, the Korean New Year in late January - mid-February, has not yet become an official holiday, but is celebrated with love and respect for traditions. Families gather together and hold the “sebe” ceremony: young people in national costumes bow to older relatives as a sign of honor, and they, in turn, reward their descendants with money.

Traditional New Year's dishes are tteok glutinous rice cakes and tteokguk soup with these dumplings.

On August 1, the Busan Sea Festival starts: a week of general fun on the city beaches. Concerts, exhibitions, sports competitions, master classes, free rowing, diving and kayaking lessons - there are interesting activities for everyone. On April 5, trees are planted, on October 3, the birth of the state is remembered, and on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar (usually in September-October), celebrations are held in the royal palaces of Seoul in honor of the Chuseok harvest festival.

The capital is Seoul. Population – 46.9 million people (1999). Population density – 476 people per 1 sq. km. Urban population – 76%, rural – 24%. Area – 98.5 thousand square meters. km. The highest point is Mount Hallasan (1950 m). The official language is Korean. Main religions: Buddhism, Confucianism, Wonbulgyo (or Wonbuddhism), Cheondogyo, Christianity. Administrative division: 9 provinces and 2 municipalities. Currency: RK won = 100 hwan. National holiday: Independence Day – August 15. National anthem: Song about the Motherland.

In 2011, the country's population was estimated at 48 million 754 thousand 657 people. Population growth rate–
0.23% (2011). Birth rate – 8.55 / 1,000 (2011). The infant mortality rate is 4.16 deaths per 1000 births. Life expectancy – 79.05; men – 75.84 years; women – 82.49 years (2011). Urban population: 83% of total population (2010).

Population in the country's largest cities: Seoul - 9,778,000 people; Busan (Busan) - 3,439,000 people; Incheon (Chemulpo) 2,572,000 people; Daegu (Daegu) 2,458,000 people; Daejeon (Daejeon) 1,497,000 people (2009).

Economy

Since the 1960s, South Korea has made incredible strides in building a high-tech industrial economy. Forty years ago, GDP per capita was comparable to levels in the poorest countries in Africa and Asia. Currently, the country has one of the 20 largest economies in the world.

GDP, which contracted by 6.9% in 1998 due to the Asian financial crisis of 1997–1998, recovered to 9% in 1999–2000. Korea has implemented numerous economic reforms since the crisis, including becoming more open to foreign investment and imports.

In the context of the global economic downturn at the end of 2008, GDP growth slowed to 0.2% in 2009. In the third quarter of 2009, the economy began to recover, largely due to rising exports, low interest rates and expansionary fiscal policy, and in 2010 GDP growth exceeded 6%.
Long-term problems for the South Korean economy include a rapidly aging population, an inflexible labor market, and an over-reliance on manufacturing exports.

GDP per capita was $30,000 (2010). In 2008 and 2009, this figure was $28,400 and $28,300, respectively.

GDP by economic sector: agriculture – 2.6%; industry – 39.3%; service sector – 58.2% (2010).

Division of Korea.

In the Cairo Declaration of 1943, the United States, Great Britain and China declared that in the future, “Korea will be free and independent.” The US and USSR agreed that Korea would be divided along the 38th parallel into northern and southern zones in order to more effectively surrender the Japanese army. In August 1945, Soviet troops entered Korea. American forces landed in southern Korea in September 1945.

A joint Soviet-American commission that met in Seoul in March 1946 to discuss the details of the formation of a provisional government for all of Korea was unable to reach an agreement that would suit both sides. The second round of meetings of this commission in 1947 also did not bring results. In September 1947, the United States raised the issue of Korean independence before the UN General Assembly, which adopted a resolution to hold elections in the country under UN supervision. However, the Soviet side refused to allow UN representatives into North Korean territory, so the elections on May 10, 1948 took place only in the South. The American military administration ceased to carry out its functions on August 15, 1948, when the Republic of Korea (ROK) was proclaimed, with Syngman Rhee becoming its first president.

Administration of North Korea was handed over to the Korean communists, and a Provisional Government was formed in early 1946. After elections to the highest legislative body on September 9, 1948, the creation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) was announced, headed by Prime Minister Kim Il Sung. The establishment of a new regime and the withdrawal of Soviet troops led to the rapid formation of North Korean military units. In the South, the development of armed forces proceeded more slowly. Difficulties were caused by a military mutiny in October 1948, raised on a wave of popular discontent and supported by the pro-communist opposition. The evacuation of the American army ended in June 1949. The following year, North and South Korea began strengthening their military potential.

In May 1950, elections to the South Korean parliament were held. Although far-left parties were outlawed, many radicals stood on their own as independent candidates and won 60% of parliamentary seats. Syngman Rhee's government responded with repression, forcing many newly elected members of parliament to flee to North Korea.

War in Korea.

On June 25, 1950, fierce fighting began along the entire demarcation line. It soon became obvious that the North Korean army was superior to its enemy. A full-scale North Korean offensive led to the fall of Seoul on the fifth day of the war. Meanwhile, at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, North Korea was condemned as an aggressor and ordered to withdraw its troops. When this call was ignored, US President Harry Truman ordered American military units into combat operations; The British government did the same.
UN troops (consisting of units of South Korea, the United States, the states of the British Commonwealth and other countries) launched a counter-offensive, and already in November they managed to reach the Amnokkan River line. The Chinese army moved to the aid of the North Koreans, and the armed forces acting on behalf of the UN were pushed south. Eventually, after heavy fighting, the line of fire returned to the 38th Parallel and remained stable for two years while peace was negotiated. The armistice agreement was formally concluded on July 27, 1953.

The war brought untold disasters to the Korean people. In addition to the huge losses among the civilian population, the number of killed and wounded in the UN troops, according to the command, amounted to almost 350 thousand, and in the North Korean army exceeded 1.5 million people.

Republic of Korea after 1953.

War-devastated South Korea's first task was to revive its economy. Assistance from the UN and the United States made it possible within several years to raise the economy and create a number of new industries.

Elections in March 1960 provoked unrest in Masana that spread throughout the country. On April 26, after American officials condemned the brutality of the South Korean authorities, Syngman Rhee resigned. The Democratic Party under the leadership of Chan Myung (John M. Chan) won the new elections. In May 1961, the government of Chang Myung was overthrown by a military junta headed by General Park Chung-hee.

Under Chung Hee Park, a consolidated program for 1962–1966 and five-year plans for 1967–1971, 1972–1976 and 1977–1981 were developed. As a result, it was possible to achieve sustainable economic growth and overcome dependence on foreign aid. Real national income per capita increased by 240% between 1961 and 1978. The country's development has accelerated the mass migration of villagers to cities, especially to Seoul and Busan.

In 1961, the government of Park Chung Hee announced that civilian rule would be restored after the general elections of 1963. The revised text of the constitution was submitted to a popular referendum and received approval in December 1962. On January 1, 1963, the activities of political parties were again allowed in the country. The elections on October 16, 1963 were won by Park Chung-hee, who was also re-elected in 1967.

In 1972, Park Chung Hee declared a state of emergency and announced his intention to make the constitution “viable” in order to “strengthen national security.” The purpose of the changes was to strengthen presidential power at the expense of the legislature and the electorate. In December 1972, Park assumed the presidency for the fourth time and was re-elected again in December 1978. Based on the 1972 emergency decree, the president sharply limited political activity in the country.

In 1979, inflation, economic problems in a number of sectors of the economy and population discontent caused new unrest. In October, the government suppressed protests in Busan and Masan. A week later, Park Chung-hee was assassinated by the head of the Korean Central Security Agency. In 1980, following a nationwide demonstration by students demanding democratization of political life, General Chung Doohwan extended a state of emergency to the entire territory of South Korea. Resistance to the general's actions resulted in a student rebellion in Gwangju. Troops stormed the city, killing hundreds of residents and arresting thousands in further reprisals. In August 1980, Chung Doohwan was elected President of Korea. A new constitution was promulgated in October, and the state of emergency was lifted in January 1981. In February, Chung Dukwan was re-elected, and the Democratic Justice Party, led by him, won a majority of seats in parliament in March 1981.

At the beginning of 1987, in connection with the death of one of the students, who was subjected to police torture, a wave of demonstrations and then strikes arose. Unwilling to risk canceling the 1988 Seoul Olympics, the government combined violent action with promises of change. The once repressed opposition leader Kim Daejung was restored to political rights. A draft of a new constitution was developed that provided for direct presidential elections. In the 1987 elections, the opposition nominated three candidates. The candidate of the Democratic Justice Party (DPS), Roh Dae Woo (No Thaew), won, with 37% of the vote. The new constitution came into force in February 1988.

The 1987 presidential election marked the beginning of truly multi-party democracy in South Korea. The most influential parties were the DPS, the Democratic Party for Reunification (DPR), and the Peace and Democracy Party (PMD). In the National Assembly, elected in April 1988, the majority of seats were won by the DPS (124 out of 299), the PMD (71) and the DPV (59).

The new government promised to expand the autonomy of universities, allow the creation of student organizations, liberalize press laws and make it easier for citizens to travel abroad. In the summer of 1988, thousands of students took part in demonstrations demanding the unification of Korea and the withdrawal of American troops. In October 1988, the 24th Olympic Games took place in Seoul. In November, authorities agreed to the formation of new trade unions, which gained collective bargaining rights, and announced the abolition of compulsory military training for university students.

In 1989, peasants held mass demonstrations in Seoul, students resumed anti-government protests, and strikes began at factories and railways. In 1990, the Democratic Liberal Party (DLP) received more than 2/3 of the parliamentary seats in the National Assembly.
In the elections to the National Assembly in March 1992, the majority of parliamentary seats were won by the DLP, the Democratic Party (DP) and the United People's Party (UNP). In the presidential elections in December 1992, the DLP nominated Kim Yonsam (from the DLP), Kim Daejun (from the DP) and Chung Juyeon (from the UNP). Kim Yonsam won with 42% of the votes. He became the first civilian president of South Korea after 32 years of military rule.

In the foreign policy sphere, the dialogue with North Korea that began in 1985 was especially important. Full diplomatic relations were established with the USSR in 1990 and the People's Republic of China in 1995.

Under President Kim Yongsam, generals Chung Dukwan and Roh Dae Woo were tried for corruption, sedition and treason. Jung Dukwan was sentenced to death, which was later commuted to life imprisonment, and Roh Dae Woo was sentenced to life imprisonment, which was later reduced to 20 years. However, both were released from prison under an amnesty, which Kim Daejun demanded after his election to the presidency in February 1998.

Immediately before the end of Kim Yonsam's term of office, a financial and economic crisis broke out in the country (December 1997). Many people associate a series of bankruptcies, sales of property for debts and unemployment with the country’s heavy dependence on loans from the International Monetary Fund, which were largely spent on rehabilitating companies and banks in difficult financial situations. Kim Daejung called for sweeping reforms. In some areas, especially in the northeast, demonstrations took place against the changes.

Republic of Korea in the 21st century.

The year 2000 became a fateful year for Korea. In June, a summit was held in Pyongyang between the leaders of North and South Korea - Kim Jong Il and Kim Daejun, who discussed the problems of unifying the Korean people. Specific measures were also planned in this direction: the opening of railway and road communications between the two states, the creation of a direct connection between Seoul and Pyongyang, and the reunification of families separated by the Korean War. An act of reconciliation was signed and the intention of both countries to work towards the unification of Korea.

Even before the summit, both Koreas began economic cooperation. Thanks to South Korean investments, the DPRK produces color televisions and telephones, which are then sold in South Korea. A plan is being developed to create an industrial base on the sea coast of North Korea for the production of household electrical appliances with investments from corporations such as Samsung Electronics and others.

In accordance with the decisions of the summit, on August 15, 2000, meetings of relatives took place in Pyongyang and Seoul, and later it was announced that the railway between North and South Korea would be restored. Its first section, 12 km long in North Korea and 12 km in South Korea, is planned to be put into operation in September 2001. In the future, this road will connect Korea with China and further with Russia and Europe.

In July 2000, Russian President V.V. Putin visited the DPRK, and the State Duma in Moscow ratified the Treaty of Friendship, Good Neighborhood and Cooperation between Russia and the DPRK. Negotiations on trade and economic cooperation between Russia and the DPRK began in October.

In 2007, the DPRK and the Republic of Korea agreed to transform the disputed waters of the Yellow Sea into a joint zone of peace and cooperation.

In February 2008, Lee Myung-bak was elected president from the former Democratic Liberal Party, which in 1997 was renamed the Hannara Party.

He pursues a policy of global interaction. However, the Bak government canceled all previous agreements with North Korea, and the rapprochement course was abandoned. Therefore, in 2009, North Korea designated the disputed waters near the border with South Korea as a kill zone. A statement was made that the Republic of Korea refrain from provocations in disputed waters. Relations between the two countries remain tense. In March 2010, another round of tension occurred. After the South Korean corvette Cheonan sank in the Yellow Sea in March 2010, the Republic of Korea blamed the DPRK for the death of the ship. Pyongyang denied any involvement.

On November 23, 2010 there was a clash with North Korea. North Korea shelled the South Korean island of Yeonpyeongdo. As a result of the shelling, 4 people were killed. This was preceded by shelling in the direction of the DPRK. The Republic of Korea said it was a military exercise. On November 22, 2010, Seoul made a statement about the possibility of deploying US tactical nuclear weapons on its territory.

In November 2010, the G20 summit was held in Seoul.

On December 19, 2012, presidential elections took place. For the first time, a woman was elected president, Park Geun-hye, the leader of the Saenuri Party (in 2012, Park Geun-hye renamed the Hannara Party to Saenuri). The renewed party remains a right-wing conservative party, but tends toward centrism. Thus, during the election campaign, He promised to take a course towards a more socially oriented state.

In early February, the United States, together with South Korea, conducted military exercises on South Korean territory. The DPRK accused the United States of preparing for a nuclear war in this way, which violates the armistice agreement between the DPRK and South Korea. On March 7, North Korea announced a “preemptive nuclear strike.”

Following the exercises, North Korea conducted nuclear tests in February. On March 7, the UN Security Council met and unanimously decided to impose sanctions against North Korea. In response, North Korea issued a statement unilaterally canceling non-aggression agreements with South Korea.

The Republic of Korea (pronounced Taehan Minguk in Korean), or informally South Korea, is a country located in East Asia, in the south of the Korean Peninsula, with its capital in the city of Seoul.

South Korea shares a border to the north with North Korea—the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The so-called demilitarized zone runs along this land border. On all other sides, South Korea is surrounded by sea (the length of the coastline is 2,413 km): the Yellow Sea in the west, the East China Sea in the south, and the Japanese Sea in the east.

People settled in Korea already in the Neolithic era. At the beginning of our era, three rival kingdoms developed on the Korean Peninsula - Goguryeo, Silla and Baekje. The largest and strongest was the kingdom of Goguryeo, which was in a state of permanent war with the Chinese Song and Tang dynasties. In the 5th - 7th centuries, the kingdom of Silla gained influence, capturing the entire territory of the Korean Peninsula, forcing the remnants of the troops of the kingdom of Goguryeo to take refuge in the territory of the current Chinese province of Jilin in Manchuria, where they founded the state of Parhae in 698, destroyed by the Chinese in 926. All three kingdoms were united during the Goryeo dynasty, which came to power in 918. Founded in 1392, the Joseon Dynasty ruled Korea until 1910. Between 1592 and 1598, Japan tried to conquer Korea, and in the 1620s, Manchuria, which was soon in turn conquered by the Chinese Ming dynasty. After this, the Joseon Dynasty came under the rule of the Chinese Qing Dynasty.

In 1876, Japan forced Korea to open to foreign trade. Japan has always sought to suppress Korean national identity, and in 1910, Korea signed an annexation treaty with the Land of the Rising Sun. After the defeat of Japan in 1945, according to the UN plan, the northern part of Korea was given over to the control of the USSR, and the United States received the southern zone of influence, which led to the emergence of two separate states on the Korean Peninsula - North and South Korea.

This was followed by a period of military conflicts, coups and revolutions - the so-called period of the six republics, which ended with the victory of democratic forces in South Korea: democratic elections were held in the country in 1987, and the first civilian president was elected in 1992.

Current time in Seoul:
(UTC +9)

Today, South Korea is a state with a fairly developed economy, becoming a new interesting tourist destination, attracting thousands of guests from all over the world from year to year. The country is famous for its protected areas that are suitable for ecotourists; ancient Buddhist buildings, interesting to lovers of cultural and educational tourism; sandy beaches of Jeju Island, which attract fans of beach holidays, diving and surfing.

How to get to South Korea

Airplane

In the vast majority of cases, tourists arrive by plane to Seoul. The capital of South Korea is served by two airports - Incheon and Gimpo, international flights arrive at the first.

You can fly directly from Russia to Seoul from Moscow (flights of Aeroflot and Korean Air), Khabarovsk and Vladivostok (Asiana), as well as St. Petersburg (seasonally) and Irutsk (Korean Air). From other Russian cities, the Asian metropolis can currently be reached by regular flights with connections in the listed cities.

Almost direct flights are available to residents of St. Petersburg - Finnair operates non-stop flights on the Helsinki - Seoul route. And thanks to Allegro trains, the Northern Capital is only a couple of hours away from the Finnish capital. However, this option is only suitable for those who have Schengen, otherwise it is better to use the same Finnair, but in a connecting version, since Helsinki Airport is quite comfortable and pleasant.

Naturally, you can fly through Moscow; this option is most suitable for the cities of central Russia, right up to the Urals. There are other options, we have listed them below. In addition, many European airlines, represented in Russia, fly to Seoul (Lufthansa, Czech Airlines, KLM and others), but flying with them seems illogical due to the large “hook”, but it may make sense if you participate in various loyalty programs European carriers.

Ferry

Cities and regions

South Korea is administratively divided into 9 provinces (1 of them autonomous), 1 city of special status and 6 metropolitan cities. These units, in turn, are subdivided into a number of smaller entities: cities, counties, municipal districts, towns, parishes, urban areas and villages.

Seoul is the capital of South Korea, founded on the site of a late 14th century settlement called Hanyang. The settlement in which the royal palace of Gyeong-bok was located was soon fortified. In 1910 - 1942, the city was called Gyeongsong, and received its current name - Seoul (from Korean - “capital”) in 1945. Since 1948, Seoul has been the official capital of the Republic of Korea and its main economic, political and cultural center.

Incheon is a large metropolitan city (the third largest city in Korea) and a port on the Yellow Sea coast. Incheon with its large port is the “gateway of Seoul”, and to some extent belongs to Greater Seoul. Transport systems of Seoul and Incheon (particularly subway lines) connected to each other. There is a free economic zone in Incheon, established in 2003.

People settled on the territory of Incheon already in the Neolithic era. From the end of the 4th century. Soon the city became a major trading center in Korea, and remained so throughout the Middle Ages. In 1883, the port of Chemulpo was founded in the city, which was one of the first to open for trade with foreigners. Incheon Harbor is famous for the fact that it was started in 1904 Russo-Japanese War- here the Japanese squadron attacked to a Russian cruiser"Varyag", which was sunk, but did not surrender to the enemy. Incheon was also the site of the American landings in 1950, which was a turning point in the Korean War.

The composition of e Incheon includes Yeongjeong, Wolmi and Mui Islands. Yeongjeong Island Attracts Mountain Tourists Baegung-san with Yonggun Monastery-sa and mineral springs with a SPA complex.

Gwangju is the capital of South Jeolla Province, a metropolitan city located in the central part of Korea surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes. Gwangju is a famous cultural and scientific center of the country. The city was founded in 57 BC. e. Since 370, the city, then called Hanam Wireseong, has been the capital of the state of Baekje. The name Gwangju was adopted in 940.

One of the suburbs of Gwangju, Pungwonni, is a ceramic production center known since the 15th century; it is here that most of the Korean white porcelain has always been produced.

Recently, Gwangju has become a modern metropolis with developed infrastructure. It still remains a major center of the Korean ceramic industry. The city has many attractions, including the Chongjinam Christian Temple (18th century), Namhanseong Fort (1626), and the State Museum with an extensive archaeological and ceramic collection.

Gwangju's events include the Tomato Festival with fairs and competitions, the World Ceramics Exhibition and the annual White Ceramics Festival in September.

Busan is the second largest city in the country, having the status of a metropolitan city, located on the southern coast of Korea. Busan is home to a large city port, ranking fourth in the world in terms of cargo turnover.

Daegu is the fourth largest city in South Korea (after Seoul, Busan and Incheon), the capital of Gyeongsangbuk-do province. Administratively, it is a city of direct subordination. Throughout its history, Daegu has been a major transport hub, located on the route from Seoul to Busan.

People have been settling in Daegu since 1500-3000. BC e. The city was founded in 261. According to the chronicles, during the Three Kingdoms, Daegu was called Dalgubel, and was part of the Silla Kingdom. The city received its modern name, Daegu, in 757. Market trade developed in Daegu from the 15th century. The most famous of the ancient markets is Yangnyeongsi, the medicinal herbal market, which still operates today.

Tourists in Daegu are attracted by the following attractions: Apsan Park with Buddhist temples and the Korean War Museum; Phalgongsan Park with many monasteries; Talson Park, located in an ancient fortress; Turyu amusement park.

Gyeongju is a large Korean city located in the southeastern part of Gyeongsangbuk-do province on the shores of the Sea of ​​Japan. Thanks to its cultural and historical heritage, Gyeongju has been a recognized tourist center in Korea for many years, is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List, and attracts many tourists.

The first documentary evidence of the existence of a city on the site of present-day Gyeongju dates back to the beginning of our era. The city was probably founded in 57 BC. e. In the 4th - 10th centuries, the city was the capital of the Silla state, and from the 7th century it was a recognized cultural center of the country. In 940, Gyeongju received its current name, and soon lost its importance. Until the 20th century, when archaeological research began in the city, Gyeongju's historical monuments were repeatedly destroyed and looted. The city received new development as an industrial and tourist center only in the 1970s.

Today, tourists visiting Gyeongju experience Silla's cultural heritage at the Gyeongju National Museum, which boasts a rich collection of archaeological objects. In addition, among the local attractions, the grotto ruins of the once large Hwannyeon-sa temple with the surrounding sculptures of Buddhas and bodhisattvas and the remains of the Bunhwan-sa monastery (7th century) stand out; the royal necropolis of Kerim in the city center, the ancient Cheomseongdae Observatory (647). In addition, in the city it is worth visiting the Sokku-ram cave temple (8th century) and the ancient Bulguk-sa monastery (528), rebuilt on the Toham-san hill, as well as several fortresses from the times of the Silla state.

Jeju, or Jejudo, is the largest island of Korea and at the same time the smallest province of the country with the administrative center of the same name in the city of Jeju. The island is located in the Korea Strait, 100 km from the southern coast of the country, and is considered one of the best resorts in Korea. The island is home to the legendary haenyeo divers, who dive to depths of up to 10 m.

Jeju Island was formed as a result of the eruption of the Halla-san volcano (height 1950 m), now considered extinct. Flows of solidified lava formed bizarre reliefs in the form of grottoes, caves, tunnels and pillars on the slopes of the volcano. A national park was formed here, in which about 2,000 species of plants grow and 4,000 species of animals live. For its uniqueness, the island was included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List.

Until 662, Jeju, then called Thamna, was a separate state, after which it was conquered by Silla. In 938, after the fall of Silla, the island came under the rule of Goryeo. During the period of Japanese protectorate in 1910, Jeju was renamed Saishu (for ease of pronunciation by the Japanese), and after the liberation of Korea from the Japanese, it became part of it. In the second half of the 20th century, Jeju Island began to develop as a major tourist center.

The island, whose holiday season lasts from July to September, is famous for its beaches. There are beaches with both fine white sand and black volcanic sand. The coastal waters abound with a wealth of flora and fauna, making the island a center of attraction for diving enthusiasts. In addition to diving, windsurfing, snorkeling and fishing are popular in the coastal waters of Jeju Island.

On the southern coast of the island there is a fairly large city, Sogipo, surrounded by tangerine plantations. There it is worth visiting the Tangerine Museum and the Jeongban Waterfall - the only waterfall in Asia that pours water into the ocean. Another resort on the island, Chunmun, is famous for its beaches and the nearby Chusan Cheolli-dae volcanic pillars. Near the Gimnyeon resort, it is worth seeing the Monchan-gul cave - a lava cave that is the longest in the world: its length is 13422 m and its height is about 10 m.

Sights of South Korea

Attractions in Korea can be found in abundance throughout its territory. UNESCO world cultural heritage sites are of particular interest to tourists.

• Megalithic structures - dolmens
• Hwaseong Fortress (Diamond Fortress)
• Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
• Seokguram Cave Temple and Bulguksa Temple Complex
• Gyeju National Museum
• Demilitarized Zone and Panmunjeong Peace Village

If you decide to limit yourself to the capital of South Korea, or your path will go through it (and in most cases this happens), then we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the list of attractions in Seoul, and with the page of the city as a whole.

Where to go in South Korea

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

Leisure

Transport

Wellness holiday

Private guides in South Korea

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with South Korea in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Things to do in South Korea

Beaches of South Korea

Due to its geographical location, Korea is a recognized Asian destination for beach holidays. Listed below the most interesting beaches in South Korea, using the links you can get detailed information - location, photographs, infrastructure and other nuances.

Alpine skiing in South Korea

Skiing is a very popular active pastime in Korea. There are more than ten famous ski resorts in the mountains, all of them located near Seoul. The ski season in the country lasts from December to March, but the rest of the year the ski resorts are also crowded with summer entertainment: golf courses and amusement parks. Below are the main ski resorts in South Korea, follow the links for more information.

Wellness in South Korea

Korea is famous for its thermal springs, next to which there are SPA and wellness centers. In total, there are about 70 health centers and about 100 traditional Korean chimchilbang bath complexes in the country.

Below is a list of some popular thermal centers in South Korea, following the links you will find more complete information - location, description, websites, and so on.

Treatment in South Korea

In addition, Korea is becoming a recognized destination in Asia medical tourism, the popularity of which is determined by two main factors: the tourist attractiveness of the country as a whole and the high quality of the medical services offered.

Medical centers in South Korea:

• Center of Oriental Medicine at Sangzhi University
• East-West Medical Center at Keng Hee University

Diving in South Korea

Diving in South Korea is most developed on Jeju Island. The main dive sites are around small islands off the southern coast of Jeju, located in the sea 15-20 minutes by boat from the city of Seogwipo. Depths from 40 to 70 m are observed here.

The coastal waters of Jeju at the junction of the Yellow Sea, the Sea of ​​Japan and the East China Sea form a unique hydrodynamic complex, characterized by a huge variety of underwater fauna (lionfish, triggerfish, tetradon, silver tuna, butterfly and angelfish, orange starfish) and richness flora (soft corals, anemones, sponges).

The best season for diving is considered to be from June to December. The water temperature in summer is + 24 - +26°C, in some cases warming up to +28.8°C, in winter and autumn - +19 - +23°C. January and February bring cool weather and many dive centers close.

In addition to diving, snorkeling is popular in the coastal waters of southern Jeju Island.

Getting around South Korea

Within the country you can travel by plane, bus, train or rented car.

Aircraft

All major cities in South Korea are connected by airlines. Within the country, two Korean airlines - and - operate flights between 14 cities of the country, including Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Daegu, Gwangju, Wonju, Ulsan.

Trains

You can also travel around South Korea by train. The railway network covers almost the entire country.

There are four types of trains in Korea: KTX (Korea Train Express) - high-speed (two high-speed railway lines that connect Seoul with Busan and Mokpo, comfortable trains reach speeds of up to 300 km/h), Saemaeul express trains, Mugunghwa fast trains. (quite comfortable) and Thongil passenger trains (slow and not very comfortable). The carriages come in classes I and II; ticket prices depend on class and distance. On all trains except express trains, passengers are allowed to travel standing if there are no seats available. Tickets are sold at station ticket offices.

At all main railway stations there are special ticket offices selling common travel tickets for foreigners - KR Pass. They give the right to travel any distance on all types of trains without restrictions on the number of trips. Tickets come in different durations - for 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 days. You can check the current cost and book KR Pass tickets at.

After purchasing the KR Pass online, the tourist is sent a voucher, which should be exchanged for a ticket upon arrival in Korea at the station ticket office.

Buses

You can also get around Korea by bus - the country has a well-established intercity bus service. All buses, regardless of class, are very comfortable.

Buses are divided into regular (ilban) and first class (udyn), and the difference in ticket prices is unreasonably large, given the small difference in comfort.

Intercity buses depart from Seoul to other cities in the country from three major bus stations:

Intercity buses across the country depart at intervals of 15 - 20 minutes. Bus fares depend on the distance of the trip. Current information on bus schedules and fares can be found at.

Within cities you can travel by city buses. They come in different comfort levels, the routes are marked with numbers, but the information is written only in Korean. Fare, as a rule, is 600 - 1300 won and does not depend on the distance of the trip. The fare can be paid in cash or with a transport card, which is also valid in the metro.

Metro

There are subways in Korea in four cities: Seoul, Busan, Daegu and Gwangju. The Seoul metro is quite large; it connects the capital with the suburbs. Subway tickets can be purchased at subway ticket offices and ticket machines that accept 10, 50, 100, and 500 won coins and 1,000 won bills. In the Korean metro, the names of stations and all basic information are duplicated in English.

Auto

To travel around the country, you can rent a car. The quality of roads in Korea is at the highest level. To rent a car, the driver must be over 21 years old, have more than 1 year of driving experience, and have a foreign passport and an international driving license. Rental offices can be found at airports and hotels.

Taxi

Tourists often travel within Korean cities by taxi. Taxis can be ordered by phone or found on the street. There are many taxi cars in Korea, they are very safe, comfortable and inexpensive. Many taxi drivers speak English. An available taxi is marked with a yellow or blue light on the roof.

Taxis are standard and deluxe. Cars with Kind Call Taxi and KT Powertel signs have Korean simultaneous translation devices, meters and navigation systems.

The fare for a regular taxi is calculated as follows: payment for landing and the first 2 km is 1600 won, then for every 150 m of the journey - 100 won. If the car travels less than 14.75 km in an hour, an additional 100 won will be added to the total for every 41 seconds of travel. The cost of a night trip (24:00 - 4:00) increases by 20%.

Deluxe taxis are usually black with a yellow stripe on the side, a yellow sign on the roof and the corresponding Deluxe Taxi logo. The toll is calculated as follows: 4,000 won for the first 3 km and 200 won for every subsequent 205 m or 50 seconds of travel (if the speed drops below 15 km per hour). Night fares do not increase. Drivers issue a receipt when paying for the fare.

All taxis operate within the city limits, and when traveling to the suburbs the cost can double. Therefore, it is worth informing the driver of the destination address before the start of the trip.

Water transport

South Korea has several hundred islands connected by ferry lines. A large number of ferries connect Jeju Island with the ports of Mokpo, Yeoso and Incheon, Ulleung Island with the ports of Pohang and Sohkcho, and the islands of Pennyeong and Daecheon with Muncheon.

Korean cuisine

Korean cuisine, which is very reminiscent of Chinese and Japanese, is varied, it contains dishes from meat, fish, seafood, eggs, rice, soy, and vegetables.

Korean cooking is distinguished by the abundance of spices used. Thus, Korean food is very spicy - most dishes contain red pepper, garlic and onions. The spiciness of dishes seasoned with pepper has developed historically: the country has a hot and humid climate, which is not conducive to the preservation of food. Among the sauces with which dishes are seasoned, soy sauce, traditional for Asia, stands out.

The main place on the Korean table is occupied by rice, from which they prepare pabi porridge, chhalteok rice cakes, bibimbap spicy rice pilaf with vegetables, and kimbap rice rolls. Rice must be served with dishes under the general name “kimchi” - various kinds of pickles and spicy vegetable snacks, marinated meat and seafood.

Fish and seafood, the richness of which is due to the geographical location of Korea, are also very often present in the menu of the country's residents. Here, as in Japan, they eat raw fish - “hwe”. There are many dishes prepared from such types of fish as cod, pollock, flounder, from the pulp of shellfish, squid, shrimp, oysters, sea cucumbers, octopus, seaweed, etc. Traditional Korean dishes are fried fish “senson gui”, stew seafood “haemul jongol”, pancakes with seafood and green onions “pajeon”, seaweed salads, squid (“ogino”) and octopus (“nakji”) dishes.

One of the main dishes in Korea is guksu noodles, which are made from wheat, buckwheat, corn and even potato flour. The noodles are served with stewed, fried or marinated meat, and poured with hot or cold broth.

Korean cooking includes first courses, in particular soups. They are eaten both for breakfast and dinner. There are a huge variety of types of soups: solyanka, meat, fish, vegetable soups. Soups are often flavored with soy sauce. Among the most popular soups are beef rib soup “galbi tang”, soybean soup with egg and shellfish “sundubu jigae”, spicy seafood soup “haemul tang”, spicy fish soup “maeungtang”, soybean sprouted soup “khonnamulguk”, etc. d.

Among the meat dishes that appear on the Korean table, it is worth mentioning first of all “bulgogi” - finely chopped beef, marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, and then fried in a wok. Other popular dishes include grilled beef ribs kalbi, pork or beef rib stew kalbichim, chicken stew takkalbi, mandu dumplings, etc.

Tourists have an ambiguous reaction to dog meat dishes, which are occasionally (contrary to the prevailing opinion of foreigners) present on the Korean table. In particular, we are talking about dog meat soup “bosintang” (bosintang - “stewed dog meat with spices”, as well as “soup that strengthens the body”). In this light, it is worth saying that dog meat in Korea is not considered a product for preparing everyday food - rather, it is a dietary and medicinal food. In addition, in Korea, a dog is not perceived as a “friend of man”; it is not assigned any role different from other animals in society. Following the lead of Western public opinion, today the Korean authorities have introduced a number of legislative measures that, if not completely prohibit the use of dog meat in cooking, then largely regulate this process.

Among vegetable dishes on the Korean menu, the leading place is occupied by dishes made from legumes. Legumes come in a variety: soybeans, peas, beans, green beans “noktu”, red beans “phatch”, etc. Sprouted soybeans are often a substitute for meat in dishes. The same soybeans are used to produce soy milk, cottage cheese, soy sauce and paste.

Desserts and sweets are also present on the Korean table. The most popular of them are “kvadul” - a dessert made from rice dough, “tothorimuk” acorn jelly, “hangva” cookies, “tasik” - candies made from honey, chestnuts, beans, sesame seeds and medicinal herbs. Among fruits, persimmons and tangerines are actively consumed.

Koreans, as a rule, end their meal with sweet rice broth “sikhye” or a decoction of cinnamon and persimmon “sujeongkwa”, herbal teas, and coffee. Alcoholic drinks in Korea are represented mainly by the results of rice processing - rice wine "makkori" or "nonju", rice beer, rice vodka.

Table etiquette

Residents of Korea do not often host feasts at home, mostly inviting guests to restaurants. In a Korean restaurant, people usually eat while sitting on the floor on cushions. In winter the floor is heated. Shoes are left at the entrance.

Traditional rules of behavior at the table, the order of serving dishes, methods and doses of alcoholic beverages were formed several centuries ago. The rules for eating and setting the table are worth special mention.

So, for example, Koreans eat not only with chopsticks, but also with spoons (for liquid dishes), which are a symbol of life (they say about the deceased that he “put down his spoon”; the number of eaters is referred to as the number of spoons, not mouths, as in Russian). Unlike other cultures that used chopsticks when eating, Koreans have been using a spoon since the 5th century. Chopsticks (“chotjarak”, “jeotgarak”) and a small spoon with a long handle (“sutjarak”, “sutgarak”) together make up the “sujeo” cutlery set (“sujeo”, short for “sutgarak” and “jeotgarak”), they are made made of stainless steel or silver. According to Korean etiquette, when using chopsticks, a spoon is placed on the edge of a bowl with a liquid dish, and when using a spoon, the chopsticks are simply placed on the table.

There are no personal plates on a Korean table. The entire surface of the table, in the center of which the main dish of meat or fish rises, is lined with small bowls with salads and sauces. Participants in the meal eat from all plates at once. Asking your table neighbor to serve you something is impolite; you should try to reach the desired dish yourself. Cutlery that has fallen on the floor should never be picked up - you need to ask the waiter to bring new ones.

When it comes to alcohol consumption, Koreans have a lot in common with Russians: they drink a lot at the Korean table; you cannot refuse to drink (this can offend the pourer and the host of the table); you cannot pour it for yourself (this is also considered an insult to the owner - he will not be able to express his respect to you), etc. You need to drink while holding the glass in your right hand.

The restaurant bill includes only the main course and alcoholic drinks; everything else (soups, salads, sauces) is free. Service is also included in the bill, so there is no need to leave a tip.

Shopping in South Korea

Tourists visiting South Korea cannot help but pay attention to shopping. The best shopping opportunities are in Seoul and other large cities: there are many large shopping centers, supermarkets, department stores, boutiques, shops, and markets.

Large department stores are open daily 10:00 - 20:00, shops - 9:00 - 22:00, large supermarkets, shopping centers and markets - often around the clock, every day.

Particularly convenient for tourists is that there are duty-free shops in Seoul and Busan (they are marked with tax free shopping signs). You can pay in foreign currency, and VAT of 10% on purchases over 30,000 won can be refunded at the airport. The only caveat: to make purchases in such stores, you need to show the sellers your return air ticket. In addition, some types of selected and paid for goods (alcohol, perfumes, cigarettes) are not handed over to the buyer, but are carefully packaged and transported to the airport exactly in time for the flight.

It is worth bringing ginseng products from Korea, first of all, since the country is one of the world leaders in the cultivation and processing of this magical root. So, you can buy ginseng concentrate, ginseng root tincture, ginseng tea, and cosmetics based on it.

Other traditional souvenirs from Korea include lacquerware decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay - boxes, powder compacts, business card holders; fine quality porcelain, ceramics, embroidery, macrame. Korean textiles and leather goods are also famous - outerwear, bags and haberdashery. Everyone is also familiar with Korean electronics, and, undoubtedly, they are worth buying in the country - all of them, except for mobile phones that support standards incompatible with Russian ones. Collectors and ethnic lovers should pay attention to the traditional Korean costume “hanbok”, which can be bought in souvenir shops and markets.

Shopping in Seoul."

Communications in South Korea

You can make a call in South Korea, first of all, using pay phones, which are available on the streets of many cities. The machines operate using special telephone cards, credit cards or coins. Phone cards can be bought in shops, shops, tobacco and newsstands, and in hotels. Almost all pay phones can call other countries.

To make a call from South Korea to Russia, you need to dial 001 (002 or 008) - 7 - area code - subscriber's phone number.

To call from Russia to Korea, you need to dial 8 - 10 - 82 (Korea code) - region code - subscriber number.

Some Korean city codes: Seoul - 02, Incheon - 032, Daejeon - 042, Busan - 051, Jeju - 064.

Please remember that GSM mobile phones do not work in South Korea. In this case, tourists can be advised to temporarily exchange their phones at the airport for local CDMA and IMT2000 models. The average cost of renting a Korean phone with your own phone as collateral is on average 3,000-4,000 won per day.

Useful phone numbers

Tourists in Korea will not have any problems with the Internet. Internet access points are available everywhere. Back in 2010, South Korea took an honorable first place in the ranking of countries in the world for the quality of Internet access (according to scientists from the University of Oviedo and the University of Oxford). Free wi-fi is available in all city centers, in large shopping centers, in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and tourist areas.

Safety

South Korea is one of the safest Asian countries for tourism, but one should not forget about basic safety rules. Tourists are advised to leave cash and valuables in hotel safes and keep a close eye on their personal belongings in crowded and tourist areas.

Among some local traditions, tourists should remember the following:

• local residents do not like to be photographed too much: before taking pictures of them, you must ask permission;
• when entering a Korean temple or house, you must take off your shoes and wear socks;
• It is indecent to sunbathe topless on the country's beaches.

Where to stay

Hotels

In South Korea, the following classification of hotels is accepted: super-lux (corresponding to 5*), luxury (corresponding to 5*), first class (corresponding to 4*), second class (corresponding to 3*) and third class (corresponding to 2*). Hotel prices depend on the season and location. On our website you can book a hotel in Korea

Hostels and guest houses

In South Korea you can also find guest houses, which are an inexpensive accommodation option. Most guest houses are converted from regular residential apartments, so several rooms often share a shared bathroom. They are usually located in city centers and near tourist attractions. The price for staying there for one night is about 15,000-40,000 won.

Apartments and condominiums

Condominiums are ordinary apartments, self-catering apartments located in large complexes with swimming pools, laundries, and restaurants. Condominiums are most often located at ski resorts, near national parks and beach resorts. The cost of living in a condominium depends on the season, length of stay, level of service, and is approximately 30,000 - 100,000 won per night. On our website you can rent an apartment in South Korea, this may be convenient for some categories of tourists - families with several children, who prefer to cook for themselves, and so on.

Residence

Another type of accommodation in Korea is a residence. This type of housing is most suitable for foreigners who have arrived in the country on a work visit, because it is a room for living and working at the same time, with a kitchen and an office. Residence complexes usually have a gym, laundry, lounges and conference rooms, restaurants, cafes, etc.