Seoul has long been recognized as one of the oldest, most densely populated and digitally connected cities in the world. Since hosting the Summer Olympics in 1988, the economic, political and cultural interactions between Seoul and her sister cities have grown and strengthened. Youth exchanges, however, are hardly found in these streams of interaction.
Seoul is a city of infinite discoveries. The ancient capital of an ancient land, Seoul is a city where the traditional and the cutting-edge exist side-by-side in perfect harmony. It's a dynamic city that never sleeps, and the list of things to do is endless, from sampling the outstanding cuisine served in the city's excellent restaurants to climbing the rock faces that overlook the city. Come to Seoul, and learn why so many travelers have been falling in love with this fast-paced but relaxing city.
Geography: Seoul is in northwest South Korea. Seoul proper comprises 605.39 km of area, roughly bisected into northern and southern halves by the Han River. The city is bordered by eight mountains, as well as the more level lands of the Han River plain and western areas.
Climate: Like the rest of Korea, Seoul experiences four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are often frigid and accompanied by snow.
Population: The city's population surpassed 10,421,000 as of the end of 2007 and the number of foreigners was 229,000, constituting 2.2 percent of the population.
Economy: As the headquarters for some of the world's largest corporations, such as Samsung, LG and Hyundai, Seoul has become a major business hub in Asia. Although Seoul accounts for only 0.6 percent of South Korea's land area, it generates 21 percent of the country's entire GDP. Its per capita GDP ranks among the highest among large cities in the region.
Brief History: Seoul is a city with a history that dates back millennia. For the last 600 years, the city has served as Korea's capital. Through the ages, Seoul has experienced many ups and downs as the nation passed through periods of prosperity and trial. In recent decades, it has experienced dramatic transformations and growth resulting from Korea's rapid industrialization and modernization.
Seoul Metropolitan Government http://english.seoul.go.kr/
Korea Tourism Organization http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto