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Seoul, South Korea

Introduction

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern architecture. Located on the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula, Seoul has been a major hub of trade and commerce for centuries. Today, it is a thriving cosmopolitan city that seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements.

Key Facts

  • Population: approximately 10.2 million
  • Area: 1,085 square kilometers
  • Languages: Korean (official), English, Chinese, Japanese, and other languages
  • Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
  • Time Zone: UTC+9
  • Climate: temperate, with cold winters and hot summers

Historical Context

Seoul has a long history dating back to the 4th century BC. It was originally a small fishing village called Haeundae, but it quickly grew into a major trading center during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). In the 14th century, Seoul became the capital of the Joseon Dynasty and remained so until the 19th century.

During the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945), Seoul was renamed Seoul-eui and underwent significant modernization. After Japan's defeat in World War II, Seoul returned to its pre-war name and resumed its role as a major city.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Seoul experienced rapid urbanization and industrialization, earning it the nickname "The City of Tomorrow." Today, Seoul is a thriving metropolis with a diverse economy and a strong sense of community.

Significant Contributions

  • Modern Architecture: Seoul has become famous for its sleek skyscrapers, modern shopping malls, and innovative design. The city's architectural style has been influenced by both traditional Korean architecture and international trends.
  • Cuisine: Korean cuisine is renowned for its spicy flavors, bold aromas, and variety of dishes. Some popular Korean dishes include bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi stew.
  • K-Pop: Seoul has given the world some of the most successful K-pop groups, including BTS, Blackpink, and EXO.

Notable Attractions

  • Palace Square (Gyeongbokgung Palace): The largest and oldest palace in Korea, built in 1395. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
  • **Myeong-dong Shopping

Metadata:

  • Model: llama-3.2-1b-instruct
  • Generation time: 2024-11-01 18:42:29
  • Keywords: Seoul, South Korea, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/seoul_south_korea