Country | Korea, Republic of |
Population | 9659322 |
Time Zone | UTC+9 (Korean Standard Time) |
Coordinates | 37.566, 126.9784 |
Highest elevation | 38 m (125 ft) |
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City Description
Seoul, officially Seoul Special City, is the capital of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and its most populous urban area. The broader Seoul Capital Area, which includes Gyeonggi Province and Incheon Metropolitan City, is the world’s fourth-largest metropolitan economy, hosting more than half of South Korea’s population. As of 2020, Seoul’s population stood at approximately 9.97 million residents.
Seoul’s history dates back to 18 BC when it was founded by the people of Baekje, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. It became the capital during the Joseon dynasty, surrounded by the Fortress Wall of Seoul. In the early 20th century, Seoul was occupied by the Japanese Empire and temporarily renamed “Gyeongseong.” The Korean War saw fierce battles, with Seoul changing hands four times and leaving the city mostly in ruins. However, post-war Seoul has undergone significant reconstruction and rapid urbanization.
Seoul is known for its high quality of life, ranked as Asia’s most livable city and second globally by Arcadis in 2015. The city’s GDP per capita (PPP) is approximately $40,000. It is home to 15 Fortune Global 500 companies, including Samsung, LG, and Hyundai. Seoul is a major technology hub, with districts like Gangnam and Digital Media City serving as central points for innovation and industry.
The city is a global power, ranked seventh in the Global Power City Index and the Global Financial Centres Index. Seoul is one of the top five hosts of global conferences and has hosted significant events like the 1986 Asian Games, the 1988 Summer Olympics, and the 2010 G20 Seoul summit.
Geographically, Seoul is set in a mountainous and hilly terrain, with Bukhan Mountain on its northern edge. The Seoul Capital Area includes five UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Changdeok Palace, Hwaseong Fortress, Jongmyo Shrine, Namhansanseong, and the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty.
Modern architectural development in Seoul includes iconic landmarks such as the N Seoul Tower, the 63 Building, the Lotte World Tower, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Lotte World, the Trade Tower, COEX, IFC Seoul, and Parc1. In 2010, Seoul was named the World Design Capital and has become a national hub for music, entertainment, and cultural industries, driving the global phenomenon of K-pop and the Korean Wave.
Seoul’s transportation infrastructure is highly developed, featuring an extensive subway system that ranks among the busiest and longest in the world. The city also boasts a comprehensive bus network and two major international airports: Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport.
Seoul’s rich cultural heritage, economic prowess, and innovative spirit make it a dynamic and influential global city.
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