Korea boasts a fast growing economy and a lifestyle that brings together the old and the new. Once known simply as a quiet nation in the East, the peninsula now hardly sleeps as it pulsates with life and commerce.
Numerous branch offices of international corporations and western franchises can be found in the country. In the face of modernity, Koreans still greatly value their 5 millennia-long culture and history and the Confucian philosophy that has governed the lives of their ancestors.
Many global events take place in Korea annually, with APEC 2005 Korea (Economic Leaders' Meeting) being the most recent and the 2002 FIFA World Cup Soccer Games. The peninsula features many scenic mountains and rivers that Koreans have often likened their country to beautifully embroidered brocade.

About Seoul

Seoul is the capital city of the Republic of Korea.
Located along Hangang (gang in Korean means a river), Seoul has grown into a metropolis with a population of more than 10 million. Over the years, the city has greatly expanded through urbanisation and industrialisation, and continues to grow as a thriving center of the country’s political, economic, cultural and educational activities.
In Seoul, the past and present coexist in a fascinating way – centuries-old palaces, city gates, shrines, gardens and priceless art collections attest to the city’s illustrious past, while the glistening facades of soaring skyscrapers and the bustling traffic represent its vibrant present.
The must-see attractions are the royal palaces of the Joseon period (1392 – 1910): Gyeongbokgung (gung in Korean means a palace), Deoksugung, Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung. The royal ancestral shrine from the Joseon period and Huwon (meaning a “rear garden” in Korean) are noted for their beautiful landscape and classical structures.
Located in downtown Seoul, Insadong is a popular town among international visitors. Both casual shoppers and serious collectors can be entertained in Insadong, whose streets are lined with antique shops, art galleries, traditional teahouses and restaurants as well as bookstores.
Visitors definitely should not pass up Korean meals, both modern and royal cuisines. Excellent Chinese and Japanese foods are also available, along with French, Italian, Mexican, Pakistani and many other ethnic cuisines.
Seoul also has an active nightlife with bars, cafes and roof-top nightclubs. The fantastic night scenery of Seoul can be experienced via the Seoul City Tour Bus or a river cruise along Han-gang which slowly meanders through the valley flanked by high-rises.

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