
South Korea
Out Score
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Out Score coming soon.
We're freshly researching the laws for every identity lens against our updated methodology. South Korea's scores will appear here once they're published.
Learn about South Korea
Beyond the scoreLearn about South Korea.Official names, languages, local time and practical context for understanding South Korea beyond its legal score.
Destination overview
About South Korea.
Tradition and trend, side by side
Ancient palaces, lantern-lit temples, and neighbourhoods that feel like the future can all happen in the same day. South Korea has a brilliant way of layering heritage with modern energy, so you can move from quiet courtyards to bright city streets without it ever feeling forced.
Read more about South Korea
Seoul energy and everyday culture
Seoul is where it really clicks. Street food sizzling late into the night, cafes on every corner, markets full of colour, and districts that each have their own personality, from shopping and style to music and nightlife. Between it all, you will find calm moments too, with palace grounds, riverside walks, and hidden lanes that slow the pace right down.
Islands, mountains, and places with character
Beyond the capital, there is a lot to explore. Jeju Island brings volcanic landscapes and coastal scenery, while Jeonju is celebrated for its traditional hanok architecture and a food scene worth travelling for. Mountain temples, night markets, and warm hospitality make every corner of the country feel exciting and genuinely memorable.
Food, wellness, and the art of doing it right
Korean food is a world in itself, from sizzling barbecue and spicy stews to rice rolls, dumplings, and fermented sides that arrive at the table without you even having to ask. Jjimjilbang bathhouses offer a warm and uniquely Korean way to unwind, and the skincare and beauty culture here has earned a global following for very good reason.
Official and Indigenous Names
- Republic of Korea (English)
- 대한민국 (Korean)
Region
- East Asia
Continent
- Asia
Resident population
51,810,000
2024 data
Capitals and seats of government
- 서울특별시, Seoul Special Metropolitan CitySEL
Currency
- South Korean Won (KRW · ₩)
Driving side
- right side of the road
Electricity
Languages
Korean
Official by law · Indigenous · ISO 639-3: kor
Korean Sign Language
Official by law · ISO 639-3: kvk
Current time and time zone
Korea Standard TimeKST
Asia/Seoul
Largest cities by resident population
- Seoul Special Metropolitan CitySEL · 9,930,478
2017 data
- Busan Metropolitan City · 3,496,779
2017 data
- Incheon Metropolitan City · 2,944,009
2017 data
- Daegu Metropolitan City · 2,484,688
2017 data
- Daejeon Metropolitan City · 1,514,354
2017 data
Busiest airports by total passengers
- Incheon International AirportICN · 71,156,947 annual passenger movements
2024 data
- Jeju International AirportCJU · 29,619,606 annual passenger movements
2024 data
- Gimpo International AirportGMP · 22,990,599 annual passenger movements
2024 data
- Gimhae International AirportPUS · 15,752,458 annual passenger movements
2024 data
- Cheongju International AirportCJJ · 4,579,221 annual passenger movements
2024 data