South Korea History

Korea was one of the last countries in Asia to be visited by Westerners, and its borders have remained largely unchanged since it was unified in the seventh century. Though it is one of the world's oldest and most ethnically homogeneous states, Korea was not born in a vacuum. Geographically isolated, the country was heavily influenced by powerful China and was often used as a bridge to the mainland by Japan. Calling themselves as "a shrimp among whales", Koreans borrowed elements of government, culture, and religion, all the while fiercely fighting to maintain independence.

Korea has a long, riveting history—it is also a divided nation. South Korea is a vibrant democracy, the tenth largest economy, and is home to a world-renowned culture. North Korea is ruled by the most authoritarian regime in the world, a poor country in a rich region, and is best known for the cult of personality surrounding the ruling Kim family. But both Koreas share a unique common history. Victor Cha and Ramon Pacheco Pardo draw on decades of research to explore the history of modern Korea, from the late nineteenth century, Japanese occupation, and Cold War division to the present day.

Pack your bags! We're headed to South Korea. On this whirlwind tour, you'll learn all about the country's landscape, culture, people, and more. We'll explore coastal islands and mountain ranges, enjoy traditional pansori music, and try a popular dish of pickled vegetables. A special section introduces South Korea's capital, language, and population. Hop on board and take a fun-filled look at your world.

Since the beginning of the #MeToo movement, tens of thousands of people in South Korea have taken to the street, and many more brave individuals took a stand, to end a decades-long abortion ban and bring down powerful men accused of sexual misconduct—including a popular presidential contender. Author Hawon Jung shows the world that these women are no delicate flowers—they are trailblazing flames. Flowers of Fire takes the listener into the trenches of this fight for equality.

Южная Корея, как правило, ассоциируется у нас с суперсовременными технологиями и транснациональными корпорациями, красивыми автомобилями и устремленными ввысь небоскребами, симпатичными певцами и певицами K-POP групп. Кажется, что эти образы пришли из будущего. Однако у этой красивой "обложки" есть и другая сторона: корейские СМИ полны рассказов про внутренние кризисы, скандалы, постоянную конкурентную гонку, сами корейцы часто жалуются на жизнь и, если верить опросам, весьма несчастны. Какой ценой дается восхищающий мир успех? Олег Кирьянов — журналист-международник, политолог, историк-кореевед, кандидат исторических наук.

For rollercoaster designer Theo, living on the edge is just part of the job. He’s used to wandering the world perfecting thrills, his heart immune to commitment. But then a commission in repressive North Korea exposes him to emotions he’s never dared to feel. Tour guide Min has a soul that wants to soar, but she knows it’s safer to build walls around her heart and mind. Skilled in showcasing the mesmerising beauty of capital city Pyongyang without revealing its darker secrets, she introduces Theo to a country he will never forget....