South Korea

About this book

Korea was once one nation but now it is two. And there could hardly be two more different countries than today's North Korea and South Korea. The contrast is stunning, given that both nations emerged from the same people with the same history and culture. The two present a fascinating study of the effects of opposing systems of government -- North Korea is a repressive, totalitarian, communist state, while South Korea is a vibrant democracy. For the most part, this book is about the Republic of Korea (ROK), the democracy that occupies the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. South Korea is a land of contrasts in itself. It emerged from the Korean War in tatters as a poor, rural, backward country today it is among the wealthiest, most advanced of nations -- an economic powerhouse -- boasting the world's hardest workers and highest achieving students. It is also a relatively safe place, with the crime rate lower than that of other countries with a comparable economic status. South Korea has spawned an energetic and appealing youth pop culture, with music, dance, and fashion celebrities attracting millions of fans across Asia and beyond. - p. 5-6.