The Republic of Korea (South Korea) occupies the southern half of the Korean peninsula in East Asia. The Korean Peninsula extends southward from the eastern end of the Asian continent and consists of the Korean Peninsula and over 3,400 islands. Lacking formidable land or sea barriers along its borders and occupying a central position among East Asian nations, the Korean Peninsula has served as a cultural bridge between the mainland and the Japanese archipelago. Mountains cover 70% of Korea's land area and almost two-thirds are covered in forest, making the peninsula one of the most mountainous regions in the world. The lifting and folding of Korea's granite and limestone base has created breathtaking landscapes of scenic hills and mountains.

The capital city, Seoul, is modern and yet appealingly ancient. It has been the capital since the founding of the Choson Dynasty more than 600 years ago. Peeking out from among the 12-lane freeways, overshadowed by high-rises, Seoul has a hidden history of centuries-old temples, royal palaces, markets, museums, pagodas, pleasure gardens and traces of the ancient walls. Famous for its palaces Kyongbokkung Palace is the best known. The National Folk Museum in the grounds of the palace is dedicated to showing the religious rituals, housing, household tools and implements, food, and social dynamics of traditional Korean life through the ages. The Han River, which flows through Seoul, provides relaxation areas for the local citizens, and is popular for it’s river cruises. In Mt. Namsan Park are hiking trails, a cable car, and visitors can get a panoramic view of the entire city from the Seoul Tower (third tallest tower in the world) observatory located at the top of the mountain.

Located on the south-eastern tip of South Korea, Pusan is the second largest city in Korea and its largest port. Its name means Cauldron Mountain, referring to the ring of peaks which rise behind the city. The area has two main beach resorts, Haeundae and Songjong. Haeundae is about an hour’s drive from Pusan city, probably the most popular resort in the area and has a long, sandy beach with a good range of hotels, seafood restaurants, hot springs and a casino. Also in Pusan, the UN Memorial Cemetery, is the only cemetery managed by the United Nations, and sits on low hills overlooking the Sea of Japan. It is the final resting place for 2,000 foreign soldiers killed in the Korean conflict.