South Korea's language is Korean and most of the inhabitants are Korean with minority groups mainly of Chinese descent. A few foreign immigrants can be found in the business sector. Religion is Buddhism, Christianity and Confucianism.

About seventy percent of South Korea is mountainous; the flatter regions of the country are located in the west and southeast areas where the majority of the more than 48 million Koreans live. The highest peak on the mainland is Mt. Chirisan, at approximately 6,200 feet. Mt Chirisan is part of the Sobaek Range.

About three quarters of the country is covered in evergreens and deciduous trees, such as maple, poplar, and elm. Fruit trees include the apple, pear and persimmon. Old growth is sparse and today is protected in nature reserves, which cover about seven percent of the country. The country's national flower is the hibiscus, a hearty blossom that blooms from July through October.

Transportation is growing substantially, with Korean Air Lines and Asiana Airlines providing both domestic and foreign service. Incheon International Airport, located 32 miles west of Seoul, opened in April 2001 for international flights.