Study, Work or Volunteer in Korea, Republic of

The Republic of Korea is perilously sandwiched between the forces of Japan in the east and China in the west. History contains will to the conception that South Korea had to accept the strength of the expansionist dream of these two giants. Still, the pride of the individuals, their love for the attractive land, their culture profoundly rooted in customs, their religious beliefs, has continued the identity of this small country intact.

South Korea’s economy ranks as 13th largest in the world and 3rd in the Asian region with a value of $1.21 trillion as of 2007 based on GDP (PPP). GDP based on sector consists of services (57.2%), industry (39.6%), and agriculture (3.2%) as of 2007. Major industries in the country include automobile, chemicals, clothing, electronics, ship building, steel, textiles, and food processing.

Korean is the official language of the country. Religion in South Korea is prevailed by the traditional Buddhist religion and a large but decreasing Christian population. Popular tourist destinations outside Seoul include Seorak-san national park, the historical city of Gyeongju, and subtropical Jeju Island. The South Korean cuisines have similarity to Chinese and Japanese food; it excels because of its own typical flavor. One of the famous dishes in the country is Kimchi. It is soured and spicy vegetable dish commonly made of baechu (Napa cabbage), cucumber or mu (daikon).

Moving around in the country is very convenient because of its extensive transportation system connecting major cities and rural areas with networks of highways, railways, ferry services, buses and air routes. South Korea has over 100 international and domestic airports. There are 2 major airports in the capital city of Seoul – Incheon and Gimpo International Airport.