South Korea, located on the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula in East Asia, is a country of diverse landscapes and regions. For travelers looking to explore this fascinating nation, understanding its geographical divisions can help in planning an enriching journey.

Central Region

The central region of South Korea extends from the area below the demarcation line with North Korea to where Sobaeksan Mountain meets the lower stream of Geumgang River. This region includes:

• Seoul: The capital and largest city, Seoul is a bustling metropolis located on the Han River. It’s the cultural, economic, and political center of the country.
• Gyeonggi-do: The province surrounding Seoul, which includes important cities like Suwon, Yongin, and Goyang.
• Chungcheong-do: This area includes cities such as Daejeon, a metropolitan city known for its technology and research institutes, and Cheongju.
• Gangwon-do: A mountainous province famous for its natural beauty, including the city of Chuncheon.

Southern Region

The southern region begins below where Sobaeksan Mountain and the lower streams of Geumgang River meet. It encompasses:

• Jeolla-do: This southwestern region includes the metropolitan city of Gwangju and coastal cities like Yeosu and Gunsan.
• Gyeongsang-do: The southeastern part of the country, home to major cities such as Busan (the second-largest city and main seaport), Daegu, and Ulsan.
• Jeju-do: An island province off the southern coast, known for its unique volcanic landscape and the famous Halla Mountain.

Coastal Regions

South Korea is surrounded by water on three sides, creating distinct coastal areas:

• East Coast: Facing the Sea of Japan (East Sea), this region has a narrow coastal plain and includes cities like Pohang.
• West Coast: Bordering the Yellow Sea, this area has wider coastal plains and includes important port cities like Incheon.
• South Coast: Along the Korean Strait, featuring numerous islands and coastal cities like Busan and Changwon.

Mountain Regions

While not a distinct administrative region, the mountainous areas of South Korea are significant for travelers:

• Taebaek Mountains: Running along the eastern coast, these mountains offer scenic beauty and hiking opportunities.
• Sobaek Mountains: Located in the southern part of the country, they provide a natural division between regions.

Understanding these geographical regions can help travelers appreciate the diverse landscapes and cultural variations across South Korea, from the bustling urban centers of the central region to the scenic coasts and mountains of the south.

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