South Korea Information Climate, Land, Government, Economy, History, and Culture By: Miller Tan

Government Divided into three branches: executive, judicial, and legislative. Semi-presidential: President: Lee Myung-bak Prime minister: Chung Un-chan Described as a fully functioning modern democracy.

History Founded by Joseon (The name Gojoseon is almost always used to prevent confusion with another Joseon dynasty founded in 14th century. in 2333 BC by Dangun. Gojoseon expanded until it controlled much of the northern Korean peninsula and parts of Manchuria. Of the various small states, Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla grew to control the peninsula as the Three Kingdoms

Economy Had one of the world's fastest growing economies from the early 1960s to the late 1990s. Its rapid transformation into a wealthy and industrialized economy in this short time was termed the Miracle on the Han River. This growth surge was achieved through manufacturing oriented exports and a highly educated workforce.

Climate Has humid subtropical and humid subtropical. Affected by the East Asian Monsoon. Short rainy season called Jagma begins at the end of June through the end of July Winters can be cold: in Seoul, the average January temperature range is −7 °C to 1 °C (19 °F to 86 °F). Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months of June through September. The southern coast is subject to late summer typhoons that bring strong winds and heavy rains

Culture South Korea shares its traditional culture with North Korea, but the two Koreas have developed distinct contemporary forms of culture since the peninsula was divided in 1945. Historically, while the culture of Korea has been heavily influenced by that of neighbouring China, it has nevertheless managed to develop a unique and distinct cultural identity from its larger neighbor.

Land Korea lies adjacent to China and Japan.  The northern border of Korea is formed by the Amnokkang (Yalu) and Tuman-gang (Tumen) rivers which separate it from Manchuria. A 16-kilometer segment of the Tuman-gang river to the east also serves as a natural border with Russia.  The Korean Peninsula extends for about 1,000 kilometers southward from the northeast Asian continental landmass.