KOREA
The Korean peninsula extends southward from the eastern end of the Asian continent. The peninsula is roughly 1,030 km (612 miles) long and 175 km (105 miles) wide at its narrowest point. Mountains cover 70% of Korea's land mass, making it one of the most mountainous regions in the world. The lifting and folding of Korea's granite and limestone base has created breathtaking landscapes of scenic hills and valleys. The mountain range that stretches the length of the east coast plunges steeply into the East Sea, while along the southern and western coasts, the mountains descend gradually to the coastal plains that produce the bulk of Korea's agricultural crops, especially rice. The Korean peninsula is divided just slightly north of the 38th parallel. The democratic Republic of Korea in the south and communist North Korea are separated by a demilitarized zone. South Korea's 99,500sq.km is populated by 47.9 million people (2003). Administratively, the Republic of Kor consists of nine provinces and the capital is Seoul.

Location / Size
Eastern Asia / approx. 220,000sq.km.
Population
49.2 million(2005)
Climate
mostly sunny days, average temperature 14℃(57.2℉), on April
Religion
Christianity, 49%, Buddhism, 47%, Other, 4%
Language
Korean(English widely spoken)
Major Cities
Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju
 
Seoul
Seoul, the capital city of Korea, is a sprawling metropolis with a population of over ten million. Located at the center of the peninsula, the city, whose history as the capital of Korea goes back more than 600 years, has mountainous landscape: There are four mountains in central parts of the city and another four mountains are surrounding it. Seoul has grown substantially over the last 30 years, and is now gaining international recognition. Seoul became well known internationally by holding the '86 Asian Games and the '88 Seoul Olympics successfully. Seoul also plays a central role in the 21st Century - The Era of the Asia Pacific. It is now featured prominently as a global hub connecting the pacific region with the rest of the world. Among its numerous skyscrapers and glass towers, Seoul presents a number of beautiful palaces and ancient gates in various parts of its downtown core. Attractions such as traditional markets, trendy shopping centers, quaint museums and whimsical amusement parks also delight visitors and local residents alike. Come and experience charming and unique Korea!
 
 

Secretariat of PKPD Yonsei 2006: c/o Ms. Ji Hye Lee, Clinical Trials Center, Yonsei University Medical Center
134 Shinchon-Dong, Seoul 120-752, Korea, Tel: +82-2-2228-0479 / Fax: +82-2-392-0668, E-mail: illlee@yumc.yonsei.ac.kr