Korea is a mountainous peninsula, which boasts breathtaking mountain scenery and a ruggedly scenic coastline. Seoul’s many attractions and excellent transport links make it the country’s number one destination for foreign visitors and the logical place from which to embark on a tour of the country. The country also has several dozen national and provincial parks, renowned for their natural beauty and numerous temples.

The Republic of Korea also has considerable experience in hosting major international sporting events, notably the 1986 Asian Games, the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, the 2002 Asian Games and the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which it co-hosted together with Japan - the first time this major sporting event has taken place in an Asian country. Visitors can benefit from sports facilities of a generally high standard, particularly in Seoul and in the larger cities.

99,313 sq km (38,345 sq miles, excluding demilitarised zone).

48.2 million (UN estimate 2005).

485.3 per sq km.

Seoul. Population: 9.7 million (UN estimate 2003).

Republic since 1945.

Korean.

Mahayana Buddhism with a large Christian minority. Also Confucianism and Chundo Kyo, which is peculiar to Korea and combines elements of Shamanist, Buddhist and Christian doctrines.

GMT + 9.

Shoes should be removed before entering a Korean home. Entertainment is usually lavish and Koreans may sometimes be offended if their hospitality is refused. Customs are similar to those in the West. Small gifts are customary and traditional etiquette requires the use of the right hand for giving and receiving. Dress should be casual and practical clothes are suitable. Traditional costume, or hanbok, is mainly worn on holidays and special occasions. For men it consists of a short jacket and loose trousers, called baji, that are tied at the ankles. Women’s hanboks comprise a wrap-around skirt and a bolero-style jacket and is often called a chima-jeogori. Both ensembles may be topped by a long coat called a durumagi.

110/220 volts AC, 60Hz. Government policy is to phase out the 110 volt supply and many hotels now have a 220 volt supply.

Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo since 2007.

President Roh Moo-Hyun since 2002.