South Korea (sowth kuh-ree-uh)
Country
South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia, located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. Known for its green, hilly countryside dotted with cherry trees and centuries-old Buddhist temples, it also features high-tech cities such as Seoul, the capital. South Korea is renowned for its technological advancements, vibrant pop culture, including K-pop and cinema, and a dynamic economy. The country's history is marked by its split from North Korea after World War II, a division that led to the Korean War. Despite the ongoing tensions with its northern neighbor, South Korea has emerged as a global leader in innovation and culture. The name Korea is derived from the Kingdom of Goryeo, which ruled the region during the Middle Ages.