South Korea

Discover one of the world's political hotspots. Learn about South Korea's amazing economic history. See the effects of Typhoon Maemi. Meet Kim Dae-Jung, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Children's Literature

Trying to maintain its unique identity and independence, South Korea still struggles with the consequences of its long, yet not-so-long-ago history. The country that lies geographically closest is responsible for preventing the republic of Korea, as South Korea is officially know, from knowing peace and unification of the country. That neighbor is North Korea. North and South Korea, separated by the Korean War remnant known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), have been enemies long before the war and many feel it still continues. Even with this conflict, South Korea has managed to rebuild itself economically, demographically and industrially. From 1950 to 2003 the population has grown from 18.9 million to 47.8 million people with 81% living in urban areas in 2003, a complete turnaround from only 21% in 1953, before the Korean War. As complicated and unfriendly as its past has been, Koreans are very traditional and respectful of their heritage and ancestors. Many Westerners could learn from their examples in family living. This is a country with much to offer and a hopeful future. As a part of National Geographic's "Countries of the World" series, this has the slick look and superb quality expected of the company and is easily read in one sitting, or as segments for a classroom assignment. The signature yellow border outlines the double spread, "At a Glance" pages making for appropriate breaks within the text. Following the text are helpful homework hints, even offering selected articles from other National Geographic resources, websites and a brief bibliography for thorough reference sources to expand and enrich the material within these covers. Reviewer: Elizabeth Young