Snuggled between the states of china and japan is the lesser-known country of South Korea.  Though sometimes overlooked as a destination spot in the area, this area of Southeast Pacific Rim is a wonderful place to go to. 

founded in 1948 when it separated from its sister country, North Korea, the Republic of Korea changed into a democratic state at the end of world war ii.  In 1950, the North invaded the South, causing the Korean War until the 2 sides signed an armistice in 1953.  Both the North and the South have similar, long-time customs, but South Korea has changed into a modern, worldwide economic leader that Western culture has heavily influenced over the last half-century. 

South Korea is home to roughly 48 million folk of whom about 12 million live in and round the capital and biggest city of Seoul.  The land area is 38,463 square miles, slightly larger than the state of Indiana.  The climate of the area is extraordinarily mild all year and residents enjoy all four seasons.  The landscape of Korea is mostly mountainous and covered with lush forests in the agricultural areas, but you can also find rice fields, the country?s staple crop, in many of the valleys. 

Top Attractions

Many attractions in the country are certain to lure a spread of travelers.  One of the most famed is Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.  While the situation of the palace is over six hundred years old, the particular buildings had been rebuilt a number of times due to invasions and hostile takeovers.  The present buildings house both the nation’s Museum of Korea and the national folk Museum.  Once home to kings and rulers, the palace is rich with history, cultural artifacts and architecture, and enjoys a large number of visitors annually. 

Those fascinated by the history and culture of the country should also try the Korean people village located near Seoul.  See what life was like for Koreans in the Chosun period ( from the 1700s up until 1910 ) in this 243-acre town.  Observe and have interaction with residents as you encounter them in standard Korean dress, but don’t be confused.  These folks are not employed actors.  Many of the residents of the village actually live there!  Enjoy music, shows, and authentic foods from a long lost but not forgotten chapter in Korean history. 

the hottest attraction in South Korea is the Demilitarized area, or DMZ, in Panmunjom.  Set at the 38th parallel, this area is where the democratic South borders the red North.  Here you may witness indoctrination from either side of the border.  See what the North wants visitors to see as a stable, booming economy, complete with complicated buildings and highways, but in reality is a slow, repressed society, as shown by the South.  Many South Koreans have relatives and buddies still living in the North that they had no contact with for over fifty years.  Travel and communication between sides is proscribed and the hope is that, one day, an end to dictatorial rule will open up the border once more.

On South Koreas west coast, in the town of Incheon, you can visit the Incheon Landing Operation memorial Hall.  This site is a commemorative to General Douglas MacArthurs combat operation that led straight to the liberation of Seoul in the Korean War.  There are also a spread of entertainments and maritime attractions in the vicinity for visitors to enjoy. 

Some festivals that visitors should think about in their itinerary include the Chunhyang holiday, the Nankye normal Music festival, and the celebration of Buddhas birthday.  The Chunhyang holiday occurs annually in Namwon.  Chunyang is the Korean equivalent of the story of Romeo and Juliet.  Many visitors come to this holiday at the beginning of May to experience Korean dance, music, and parades.  The Miss Chunyang pageant is held on the last day of the holiday.  The Nankye Traditional Music festival is a celebration of Nankye, a Korean composer who is said to have created Chosun Dynasty Korean Music.  This type of music is a beautiful ensemble of strings, winds and percussion that produce a sound wholly original to Korean culture.  This event is held annually in Yongdong in September.  The celebration of Buddhas birthday is held in May all over the country.  Many Buddhist temples hold holidays and parades on this vacation that is celebrated by many Koreans, without regard for faith. 

Culinary pleasures

While traveling in South Korea, visitors can enjoy a selection of culinary pleasures.  Most dishes are more spicy than most Western palates are used to, however.  The favorite of most travelers is pulgogi.  This is a traditional Korean dish that consists of marinated slices of beef with rice and vegetables that’s then wrapped in a leaf of lettuce.  With rice, another basic foods of Korean culture is kimchi.  This side plate is often served with every meal.  Kimchi is a mix of fermented plants, usually cabbage, and is especially hot and spicy.  Since it is eaten continually, there are many variations of kimchi to choose from.  For those less adventuresome, many Western restaurants have made their way to Seoul and surrounding towns, so those who want to experience the culture but cannot handle spicy foods, there’s customarily a McDonalds or a KFC round the corner.

For more information about travel and useful tips for tourists, visit famouswonders.com and check out Pulguksa Temple facts.

Tags: delicacies, delights, Seoul, South Korea