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Legend says the first kingdom of Korea was founded in 2333 B.C., since then Korea experienced political independence and unity - until the Japanese colonization began in 1910.
For the next 35 years Korea was completely destroyed - the entire government was reappointed to Japanese officials, schools were closed, and it became illegal to teach the Korean language and any Korean history. Land was taken and sold to Japanese, and tens to hundreds of thousands of young women from rural villages were taken as "comfort women" for Japanese solders - women who were the same age my grandmother would have been at the time. Thankfully, in 1945 Japan surrendered as World War II ended, but it left Korea in shambles. The North of Korea was still controlled by the Soviet Union, and the South was in the hands of the United States. For 5 years Korea remained split at the 38th Parallel, until 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea. They managed to reach and take control of the entire country except for the coastal city of Busan within 3 months. |
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When the United Nations interfered, North Korea (backed by China) was driven back to the 38th Parallel. For the next two years the border was like a stand off, until finally in 1953 an armistice was signed - leaving Korea as what we know now, two separate countries. As soon as this went into effect, no one was allowed to cross the new Demilitarized Zone, and an estimated 44,000 families were torn in two and separated forever.
During the Korean War an estimated 3 million lives were lost, and an estimated 2 million children were orphaned or sent into adoption.
Since then, there have been some efforts to reunite families for a brief period of time at the DMZ, however most direct family members who were impacted have since passed.
Now, South Korea's GDP has increased 31,000x's - and is considered the 4th largest economy in all of Asia, with current rankings putting South Korea as the 13th highest GDP in the entire world. Crazy considering the entire country is smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.
During the Korean War an estimated 3 million lives were lost, and an estimated 2 million children were orphaned or sent into adoption.
Since then, there have been some efforts to reunite families for a brief period of time at the DMZ, however most direct family members who were impacted have since passed.
Now, South Korea's GDP has increased 31,000x's - and is considered the 4th largest economy in all of Asia, with current rankings putting South Korea as the 13th highest GDP in the entire world. Crazy considering the entire country is smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.
GYEONGGI-DO
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As the most accessible province in South Korea, and home to the Incheon International Airport. This area is known for having incredibly modern amenities while still promoting traditional villages and palaces. This area is also the most populated, and houses almost half of the country's entire population.
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GANGWON-DO
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Gangwon-Do is nicknamed the "adventure province of Korea" due to the fact that it is filled with beautiful mountains, national parks, and has an incredibly long coastline filled with beaches. With plenty of waterparks and delicious seafood, there's no shortage of fun, adrenaline-pumping things to do in this area of Korea.
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CHUNGCHEONBUK-DO
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A province known for having a laid back, traditional vibe with plenty of time to enjoy hiking and the outdoors.
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CHUNGCHEONGNAM-DO
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Because the Chungcheongnam-Do Province is so centrally located, it is known as one of the transportation hubs of the country, along with having many historic sites from the Three Kingdoms Period. Not only that, but this province stands out by being considered the richest and fastest growing province.
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GYEONGSANGBUK-DO
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The Gyeongsangbuk Province is known for having cultural and historical tradition, as well as many beaches. Not only are most of the Korean historical dramas filmed in this area, but if you decide to visit this area you'll experience more traditional Korean culture than in many other provinces.
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GYEONGSANGNAM-DO
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Similar to the Gyeonggi-Do province, Gyeongsangnam-Do is one of the only other provinces with an international airport. Known for it's laid back vibe and easy access to hiking and beaches, in your down time you can visit many of the smaller islands near by.
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JEOLLABUK-DO
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The Jeollabok-Do province is one of the few in Korea known for its growing LGBTQ community. It's also said to have some of the best food in the entire country, and typically attracts some of the biggest foodies out there.
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JEOLLANAM-DO
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Being one of the furthest south provinces in South Korea, this area is often known for it's warm weather and many beaches - and is one of the places many Koreans visit for vacation.
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JEJU-DO
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Jeju-Do is often considered the Hawaii of Korea - and for good reason. With incredible beaches, lava tubes, and dozens of waterfalls, when you visit Jeju you'll experience a completely different, nearly tropical, side of Korea. Plus, with it's huge export of citrus, you'll see oranges everywhere!
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