Picturesque nature, clean rivers, mountains and sea beaches – all this is of great interest among tourists from all over the world. South Korea is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia. The rich history has left behind a lot of luxurious Buddhist monasteries, royal palaces, fortresses and much more that will impress any traveler. The carefully protected nature gives the country a special charm.
Geography of South Korea
South Korea is located in the south of the Korean Peninsula in northeastern Asia. The northern part of the country borders on the DPRK, and in the east it is washed by the Sea of Japan. The relief is very rugged and varied. About 70% of the country’s territory consists of low mountain ranges stretching from north to south. A distinctive feature of the coastline is a large number of islands located along it, this is especially true for the west coast.
Capital
Seoul
Area
The area of South Korea is 100.210 km2. sq., occupies the 109th place in the world by area.
Population
48,875,000 people.
Currency
The national currency is the South Korean Won (KRW).
Language
The official language is Korean.
Visa to South Korea
Residents of Russia must have a visa to visit South Korea. Only those who have been in the country more than four times in the last two years have the opportunity to visit the country without a visa for a period not exceeding 30 days. In addition, without a visa, you can stay on Jeju Island, which can only be reached by direct air or sea flight. A single entry short-term visa is valid for 3 months, you can stay in the country for up to 30 days. This type of visa is issued within 5-7 working days, and the consular fee is $50. The fee must be paid when submitting documents in US dollars.
Weather in South Korea
The climate in the country is moderate monsoonal. The average temperature for the year varies from north to south from +4 C to +14 C, respectively. Winter is rather cold and snowless. In the central region of the state, the temperature can drop to -20 C, and on the coast to -10 C. Most of the precipitation falls in winter (2000 mm). The best time to travel to South Korea is from June to October.
Transport
Buses in major cities are quite modern and comfortable. In Seoul, there are both regular regular buses and luxury buses. Payment is possible both in cash and with a special card, which can be used to pay for travel in the metro. Such cards are sold at kiosks near bus stops and metro stations. Taxis in Korea are also of two types – ordinary and luxury. In ordinary taxis, payment is calculated by the meter, the cost of landing is two kilometers. At night, the fare increases by 20%. Luxury taxis are usually black with a yellow stripe on the sides. The fare in a luxury taxi is much higher, but the conditions of the trip are more comfortable and the fare at night does not increase.
Currency exchange in South Korea
As of September 2011, the national currency rate is 1 USD = 1112 KRW. The national currency is the South Korean Won. Local banks are open from Monday to Saturday. Most ATMs do not work at night. Many shops and markets accept dollars freely, but department stores and large supermarkets do not accept dollars. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and traveler’s checks can be cashed at banks or major travel companies.
Electricity
110-220V/60Hz (European sockets).
Religion
Most of the country’s population professes Buddhism (23%). In recent years, the number of Protestant Christians has noticeably increased – 18.3% and Catholics – 10.9%. A significant part of the population of South Korea are atheists – 46%.
Security
Korea is one of the safest countries in the world. Pickpockets and robberies are very rare, and car theft is a sensation for the locals. The moral foundations of society are so humane that it is almost impossible to meet a negative attitude towards oneself. All areas of the cities are well lit at night and are under constant police surveillance.
Health
No vaccinations are required to travel to South Korea. If you need medical attention, you need to go to the hospital, as a call to the house is not accepted here. All honey. services are paid, only first aid is provided free of charge.
