South Korea is a country in East Asia. Part of the Korean Peninsula, South Korea is bordered by North Korea to the north and has water (sea) on the other three sides. Here are 10 fun facts about South Korea. Let’s read.
10 fun facts about South Korea
1. Overview
South Korea has an area of approximately 100,350 square kilometers (38,750 square miles) and a population of about 51.7 million (2025 estimate). South Korea is officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK).
2. Everyone in South Korea used to get a year older on January 1
In the traditional Korean age system, a newborn is considered 1 year old at birth. Then, everyone collectively gains a year on January 1, regardless of their actual birth date. This means that a baby born on December 31 would be 2 years old the very next day, on January 1.
In 2023, South Korea officially adopted the international age system, replacing the traditional Korean age system for all legal and administrative purposes.
3. The national animal of South Korea is the tiger
Siberian tiger (Amur tiger) is the national animal of South Korea. However, there are no Siberian tigers left in the wild in the country.
4. South Korea has a very high population density
South Korea is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. With a population of over 51 million people living in a relatively small area, the country’s average population density exceeds 500 people per square kilometer.
5. South Korea has one of the largest militaries
South Korea maintains one of the largest militaries in the world by total personnel, thanks in part to its mandatory military service and its strategic position near North Korea.
6. South Korea has a high overall forest cover
Despite its high population density and urban development, South Korea maintains a high forest cover, with 64.2% (2022) of its area covered by forests.
7. There are many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Korea
There are 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Korea, 15 cultural heritage sites, and 2 natural heritage sites. The famous ones are Changdeokgung Palace Complex, Baekje Historic Areas, Jeju Volcanic Island, etc.
8. Capital and largest city
Seoul is the capital and the largest city in South Korea. The Seoul metropolitan area has a population of over 25 million.
9. The highest mountain peak in South Korea
Hallasan located on Jeju Island is the highest mountain in South Korea. It is a shield volcano with a height of 1,947 meters (6,388.0 ft). In the mainland of South Korea, Jirisan is the highest mountain. Jirisan is 1,915 m (6,283 ft) high.
10. South Korea has thousands of islands
There are over 3,300 islands in South Korea. Jeju Island, located to the south of the Korean Peninsula, is the largest island in South Korea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and unique culture.
Quick facts about South Korea
| Area | approximately 100,350 square kilometers (38,750 square miles) |
| Population | 51.7 million (2025 estimate) |
| Capital | Seoul |
| Largest city | Seoul |
| Currency | South Korean won |
| Official name | Republic of Korea (ROK) |
| Most spoken language | Korean |
| National animal | Siberian tiger |
| National bird | Korean magpie |
| National tree | Korean red pine |
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