Asian Tiger, a seriously wired country or the world's most heavily fortified border? All are accurate descriptions of South Korea though none fully captures the essence of this fascinating, complex nation. Social relations may be grounded in ancient Confucianism but South Korea is most decidedly a forward thinking country thanks to its hurry-hurry approach to everything, an insatiable appetite for technological advancement and an indomitable cando attitude. No one knows where the country is headed, but it's fast-forward all the way.That's what makes South Korea so exiting and at times unnerving; it's a country of endless possibilities with limits imposed only by you.

Dirty yourself clean at the Mud House - one of Korea's many public baths.

Forget hot dogs - snack on dried squid at a baseball game.

Vow to get fitter as a wizened Korean lady overtakes you on the climb up Seongsan IIchulbong.

Steady yourself for the sight of 100,000 people participating in the North's Mass Games.

Four expert authors, 68 detailed maps, 189 boiled silkworms.

Expanded information on North Korea tours.

New Activities chapter including detailed advice for hiking up Hallasan.

The Authors

Getting Started

Itineraries

Snapshot

History

The Culture

Environment

Food & Drink

Korea Outdoors

Seoul

Gyeonggi-do

Gang-won-do

Gyeongsangbuk-do

Gyeongsangnam-do

Jeollanam-do

Jejudo

Jeollabuk-do

Chungcheongnam-do

Chungcheongbuk-do

North Korea

Directory

Transport

Health

Language

Behind the Scenes

Index

World Time Zones

Map Legend