Global - Technology - Review

In stark contrast to its northern neighbour, with whom it is still technically fighting the Korean War of 1950-53, the Republic of Korea is a developed democracy with a very high standard of living. The country’s success is driven by exports of automobiles, ships, pharmaceuticals, robotics and electronics, especially mobile phones. Samsung, Hyundai, Kia and LG are worldwide brands. Korean cuisine is based on rice and noodles, seasoned with hot chilli sauces, sesame oil, garlic and soy, and numerous banchan or side dishes. Buddhism is the main religion. Traditional architecture is characterised by curved tiled roofs, as seen in the eighteenth century Hwaseong Fortress with its three miles of walls. Another historic site is Changdeokgung Palace, set in beautiful gardens, one of the five ‘Grand Palaces’. South Korea has ten World Heritage Sites and twenty National Parks. The martial art of Taekwondo originated in Korea, however the most popular sports are football and baseball. The capital Seoul, with nearly 25 million inhabitants, is the world’s second largest metropolitan area. It has unrivalled shopping facilities, a wealth of iconic modern architecture, and one of the busiest Metro systems in the world.