The fascinating country of South Korea is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with its foundation dating back to 2333 BC. Also known as the "Land of the Morning Calm", it occupies the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, which extends some 1,100 kilometres from the Asian mainland. This mountainous peninsula is flanked by the Yellow Sea to the west, and the Sea of Japan / East Sea to the east. About 3,000 islands lie off the western and southern coasts, including the popular holiday island of Jeju with its scenic beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and unique lava caves.

A major economic powerhouse, South Korea is one of the wealthiest countries in Asia. It boasts the 12th largest economy in the world and the third largest in Asia, forming the ""Big Three"" Asian economies along with China and Japan. It is a world leader in electronics and information technology. A network of trains and subways connects the country’s cities and suburbs. Yet under its modern exterior South Korea retains centuries-old customs and traditions, such as its cuisine, ancestor worship, and Confucius ideals. The country also has several dozen national and provincial parks, renowned for their natural beauty and numerous temples.

Surrounded by powerful neighbours, it has come under attack on numerous occasions over the millennia and responded by turning its back on the world and developing its own unique culture in isolation, an enticing element which draws thousands of tourists still today.

Seoul, its capital is the world's second largest city, a thriving and exciting metropolis of futuristic high-rises, chic hotels, fabulous restaurants, stylish shops and beautifully renovated palaces still worthy of the kings who built them. The Korean ambition to come to terms with a turbulent past is most apparent in Seoul. Wherever you travel, you'll see Koreans out in the open air, clad in the latest adventure fashions, pushing ever onward and upward.