South Korea is located in Eastern Asia, and its capital is Seoul. It has a population of approximately 51,751,065 and covers an area of about 100,450 km². Its official currency is the Won (KRW).
What stands out
People & place
515 /km² across 100,450 km²
South Korea has a recorded population of 51,751,065 and a reported surface area of 100,450 km².
Economic snapshot
$1.88 trillion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $1.88 trillion and GDP per capita at $36,239 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
Won (KRW)
South Korea uses Won (KRW), calling code +82, internet domain .kr.
About South Korea
South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a sovereign state in East Asia constituting the southern part of the Korean Peninsula.
South Korea is a mountainous country, with most of its area covered by mountains. It is bordered by North Korea to the north, the East Sea (Sea of Japan) to the east, the East China Sea to the south, and the Yellow Sea to the west. The climate is temperate with four distinct seasons.
South Korean culture is a rich blend of traditional Confucian values and modern Western influences. It is famous for its vibrant pop culture (K-pop, K-dramas), advanced technology, delicious cuisine (kimchi, bulgogi), and unique etiquette.
Korea has a long and complex history dating back thousands of years. After centuries of kingdoms and dynasties, Korea was colonized by Japan in 1910. Following World War II, Korea was divided into North and South, and the Korean War (1950-1953) solidified this division.
Key facts
Capital: Seoul
Official Language: Korean
Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Eastern Asia