South Korea

If you are looking for exciting exploration adventures, then South Korea is the perfect choice for you.

It is a country full of contrasts, from the rich culture and ancient temples all the way to the super modern cities like Seoul, where in 1988 the Summer Olympic Games were held, and it represents a real challenge for every tourist.

South Korea is located in the southern part of the Korean peninsula in the Northeast Asia. It occupies an area of ​​99,617 square kilometers and 238 kilometers land border separates it from North Korea with whom South Korea is in bed relations even today. It is surrounded with the Yellow Sea, Japan Sea, East China Sea and Korea Strait.

The longest river (470 km) is Han, the highest mountain peak is an inactive volcano Halla-san (1,950 m), located on the largest island  Jeju. About three thousand other islands are small and uninhabited. South Korea is the second largest missionary country in the world, after the US. The largest catholic church in the country is the Full Gospel Church, located in Yoido, which is part of Seoul.

In South Korea about 50 million people live and more than 11 million in the capital Seoul. According to the ethnic composition almost one hundred percent are Koreans, with a small part of Japanese, but a considerable number of immigrants also live in the country , economic emigrants, from Anglo-Americans to Filipinos. It is arranged as a multi-party republic with one legislative house and in the early history had an experience of military dictatorship which, in turn, had a favorable effect on economic growth.

South Korea is one of the most developed countries in the world and it is a part of a so-called Asian tigers because it has strong export-oriented industries such as electronics and automotive and skilled, disciplined and cheap labor. Agriculture is, however, lost its importance and it lacks labor. They use fisheries mainly for domestic purposes. Gross national product per capita was $ 17,800 in 2004, and there is unemployment of 4 percent.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:

South Korea’s most famous national park is Seoraksan that stretches across the mountain range and covers four areas.

In the city of Andong you you can explore the rich historical tradition of Confucianism, and nearby you can get acquainted with the old fashioned way of life in the countryside.

Temple Guinsa is center of unusual Buddhist sect Cheondae.

Panmunjom on the border with North Korea is probably the only tourist place where the Cold War is still a reality.

Boseong hills are covered with plantations of green tea. You can walk along them on forest trails and on the way there drink tea or refresh with relaxing spa bath in the sea water.

Yeosu is a picturesque port city, famous for its beaches and excellent seafood specialties. There is an especially nice view of the sunset from the bridge Dolsan or from the romantic cafe near the marina.

USEFUL INFORMATION:

Official language: Korean
Religion: Christians are represented with 48.6 percent (Protestants and Catholics), Buddhists (47.7 percent), Confucians 3 percent and 1.1 percent other
Currency: 1 won = 100 choni
Climate: temperateness, with more rainfall in summer and cold winters.
Time difference: + 9 hours regarding to Croatia
How to travel: by plane via the main airport Incheon International Airport in Seoul.
When to travel: the most pleasant time is from September to November or April-June
Diseases and Prevention: Vaccination is not necessary. Before the trip get more details from the web site of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Visa: not required for Croatian citizens. A diplomatic mission in charge of Croatia is located at: Ksaverska 111/AB roads, 10 000 Zagreb.
Hotels: at the 3 star Sunshine Hotel in Seoul you can stay for 62 euros, at the 4 star Koreana Hotel 128 euros, while sleeping in a Luxurious JW Marriott Hotel Seoul is only slightly more expensive – 138 euros.
Restaurants: in Bonjuku in Seoul you don’t have to be afraid that you will get dog meat in a traditional Korean food, and as for meat food we could recommend the Outback Steakhouse while fish and sushi should be tested in Millak Town Raw Fish Centre in Busan.

Caution!

It is advisable to drink bottled water and eat only in verified restaurants. Sometimes there are unrests on the border with North Korea so it is an area that you should definitely avoid. It would be best to inquire information about the situation in the country at the diplomatic mission in Croatia before traveling.

Photo: Shutterstock.com

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