Seoul (city)

Seoul (city)
Name	Seoul
Native name	서울
Native name lang	ko
Settlement type	Special city
Coordinates	37°34′N 126°58′E
Country	South Korea
Region	Sudogwon
Established	18 BCE
Area km2	605.2
Population total	9,600,000
Population as of	2020
Density km2	15,866
Mayor	Oh Se-hoon

Seoul (city) Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center of the Korean Peninsula and the wider Northeast Asia region. The city is situated on the Han River and functions as the core of the Seoul Capital Area, closely linked with Incheon and Gyeonggi Province. Seoul's modern identity was shaped by historical episodes including the Three Kingdoms of Korea, the Joseon dynasty, the Korean Empire, Japanese colonial rule, the Korean War, and South Korea's rapid industrialization often associated with the Miracle on the Han River.

History

Seoul's origins trace to the Baekje period and the capital relocations of the Three Kingdoms of Korea era, later becoming the primary seat of the Joseon dynasty under Kings such as Taejo of Joseon and Sejong the Great. The city, then called Hanyang, expanded around landmarks like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces and endured invasions including the Imjin War and incursions by the Qing dynasty. In 1897 the Korean Empire proclaimed modernization efforts under Emperor Gojong, followed by Japanese annexation under the Japan–Korea Treaty of 1910 that transformed urban infrastructure and industries linked to firms like Mitsubishi and institutions such as Keijo Imperial University. Post-1945 liberation led to the division of Korea after the Potsdam Conference and escalated into the Korean War featuring battles like the Battle of Inchon and interventions by United Nations Command forces. The city's postwar reconstruction paralleled policies by leaders including Syngman Rhee, Park Chung-hee, and economic planners associated with the Economic Planning Board and conglomerates such as Samsung, Hyundai, and LG.

Geography and Climate

Seoul lies in northwest South Korea on the Han River basin, bordered by Bukhansan and the Namsan range, with administrative districts (gu) like Jongno-gu, Gangnam-gu, and Yeongdeungpo-gu. The city occupies part of the Korean Peninsula's temperate zone and experiences a humid continental climate influenced by the East Asian monsoon and seasonal interactions with systems such as the Siberian High and the North Pacific High. Seoul's topography includes riverine floodplains, forested mountains within Bukhansan National Park, and reclaimed areas near Incheon that shaped urban expansion and land use debates involving agencies like the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

Government and Politics

Seoul is a Special City under South Korean law, administered by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and led by an elected mayor such as Oh Se-hoon, interacting with national institutions including the Blue House (former executive residence), the National Assembly in Yeouido, and ministries like the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. The city's politics have oscillated between parties like the People Power Party and the Democratic Party of Korea, reflected in local elections and policy disputes over development projects such as the Cheonggyecheon Restoration Project and large-scale bids like the 2020 Summer Olympics (bid processes). Seoul hosts diplomatic missions from states such as the United States, China, and Japan, and international summits including the G20 Seoul Summit-related events and inter-Korean meetings like the 2018 inter-Korean summit.

Economy

Seoul anchors the South Korean economy as headquarters for chaebol including Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor Company, LG Electronics, and financial institutions such as the Korea Exchange and the Bank of Korea. The city's sectors span technology clusters in Gangnam, media firms like CJ Group and Yonhap News Agency, and retail hubs such as Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Market. Seoul's infrastructure supports manufacturing sites in suburbs tied to Incheon International Airport logistics and trade via ports connected to Busan and global supply chains involving partners like the United States and China. Economic policy initiatives have involved entities such as the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Ministry of Economy and Finance to promote startups through programs allied with universities including Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University.

Demographics and Society

Seoul's population comprises diverse communities including long-established Koreans and foreign residents from countries such as China, Vietnam, Philippines, and the United States, with social services coordinated by organizations like the Seoul Global Center. Education is highly prominent with institutions like Seoul National University, Korea University, Yonsei University, and specialized schools in districts such as Gangnam-gu and Jongno-gu. Religious life features temples like Jogyesa, churches such as Myeongdong Cathedral, and communities of Buddhist and Christian denominations. Public health and welfare systems intersect with national agencies like the Ministry of Health and Welfare and campaigns addressing urban challenges including housing in areas like Songpa-gu and aging population concerns managed with policies influenced by the Seoul Welfare Foundation.

Culture and Landmarks

Seoul hosts cultural institutions including the National Museum of Korea, the Seoul Arts Center, and festivals such as the Seoul Lantern Festival and Hi Seoul Festival. Historic sites include Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Jongmyo Shrine, and neighborhoods like Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong known for traditional crafts. Modern landmarks include N Seoul Tower on Namsan, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza by architect Zaha Hadid, and entertainment districts like Hongdae and Itaewon linked to K-pop agencies such as SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and JYP Entertainment. Museums and performance venues stage works by artists associated with events like the Seoul International Music Festival and exhibitions that collaborate with international partners like the Smithsonian Institution and museums in Tokyo and Beijing.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Seoul's transport network includes the extensive Seoul Metropolitan Subway system interconnected with regional rail like Korail and high-speed services such as the KTX, serving hubs like Seoul Station and Yongsan Station. Air connectivity is provided by Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport, with logistics supported by expressways including the Seohaean Expressway and bridges across the Han River like the Banpo Bridge. Urban projects such as the Cheonggyecheon restoration, bicycle programs, and bus rapid transit systems interface with agencies like the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and transit operators including Seoul Metro. Emergency preparedness, utilities, and digital infrastructure are coordinated with national bodies such as the National Disaster Management organizations and technology firms like KT Corporation and SK Telecom.

Category:Capitals in Asia Category:Cities in South Korea