descriptive essay about korea

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Narrative Essay: My Trip to South Korea

I had always wanted to visit South Korea and I recently had the chance to spend a week in this amazing country. Unlike its northern neighbor which is pretty much closed to visitors, South Korea is a welcoming and hospitable country. It is an interesting place with a unique culture and a highly developing economy.

I flew into the capital Seoul. On arrival in the city, it was the marked contrast between modern skyscrapers and high design shopping malls and shanty towns that was immediately striking. Wide streets lined by fancy boutiques lead to a labyrinth of narrow alleyways with tiny traditional shops and eateries and there is a clutch of great tourist attractions.

My tour itinerary began on Seoul’s main boulevard, Sejongro, because I wanted to see the Royal Palace (Gyeongbok), the President’s residence, known as Cheongwadae or the Blue House, and the American Embassy. From here it’s a fairly short walk to Bukchon where there is the city’s largest collection of privately owned traditional wooden houses. It’s a charm with beautiful architecture and small courtyards, with the houses interspersed with quaint cafes and art galleries.

Taking the same route the next day, I took a trip into the mountains that peak behind the President’s House, and climbed the one known as Bugaksan. This affords the opportunity to pass through the Sukjeongmun Gate and through the city’s ancient fortress wall. From here the Seoul Fortress is easily accessible and there are also amazing views of Seoul.

Shopping in the Orient is an amazing experience so I made sure to pay a visit to the Shinsegae downtown department store. This huge emporium sells probably everything you can imagine and is a complete charm in the way the bottom floors sell all the basic staples of daily life – including the ubiquitous kimchee (fermented cabbage) and are frequented by Korean housewives while the upper floors cater to the well-heeled and brand conscious. As fascinating as it is, the new rooftop garden is a welcome respite. But, if you are going to shop in Seoul, it’s a must to visit the street stalls and hawkers of the Namdaemum Market where the wares seem to be spread out in a blanket of never-ending stalls. Be prepared to be seriously jostled by the crowds, but it’s also the chance to feast on the best street food.

One of the most surprising sights and a rue delight is the Cheonggyecheon Stream. Running for just under 4 miles through the city, the stream is remarkably quiet given its location, because it is 15 foot below street level. The serene setting, accentuated by waterfalls and bridge is a favorite strolling spot for romantic couples.

With a flying visit to Itaewon, the popular ex-pat neighborhood near to the main US army base, my time in Seoul came to an end. I was enthralled and captivated and hope I get to return one day.

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Essay on South Korea

Students are often asked to write an essay on South Korea in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on South Korea

Introduction.

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia. It’s known for its green, hilly countryside, centuries-old Buddhist temples, and high-tech cities.

South Korea is located on the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. It is surrounded by the Yellow Sea to the west, and the East Sea to the east.

Capital City

The capital city, Seoul, is a bustling metropolis with modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and pop culture alongside historic palaces, and street markets.

Korean culture is rich with tradition, including the popular Korean music, K-pop, and Korean dramas that are famous worldwide.

250 Words Essay on South Korea

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia, constituting the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. Its rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating subject of study.

Economic Growth and Technological Advancements

South Korea’s economic growth, often referred to as the “Miracle on the Han River,” transformed it from a war-torn nation to an economic powerhouse. It is home to renowned multinational corporations like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG. Moreover, the country’s technological advancements, particularly in the fields of IT and robotics, have positioned it as a global leader in innovation.

Culture and Heritage

South Korea’s rich cultural heritage, embodied in its traditional music, dance, and art forms, coexists with its modern pop culture. The global phenomenon of K-pop and Korean dramas (K-dramas) has significantly increased its cultural influence, a phenomenon known as the “Korean Wave” or “Hallyu.”

Political Landscape

The political landscape of South Korea is marked by its democratic system and ongoing tensions with North Korea. Despite these challenges, South Korea has maintained political stability, contributing to its economic and social progress.

South Korea’s journey from devastation to prosperity, its technological prowess, and cultural richness offer valuable insights into the transformative power of innovation, cultural preservation, and resilience. It stands as a testament to the potential of human endeavor in shaping a nation’s destiny.

500 Words Essay on South Korea

Economic development.

South Korea’s economic narrative is one of the most compelling stories of the 20th century. From the ashes of the Korean War, the nation rose to become the 10th largest economy in the world, a phenomenon often referred to as the “Miracle on the Han River.” South Korea’s economic model, heavily reliant on chaebols (family-controlled conglomerates), has been instrumental in this rapid development. Companies like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG have become global powerhouses, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.

Technological Advancement

South Korea is a global leader in technological innovation and digital connectivity. With the highest internet speed in the world and a tech-savvy population, the nation is at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. South Korea’s commitment to research and development, coupled with a robust education system, has fostered an environment conducive to technological advancement. The country is also home to the city of Songdo, one of the world’s first smart cities designed from the ground up.

Cultural Exportation

Despite its economic and cultural prowess, South Korea faces a complex and challenging political landscape. The nation is technically still at war with North Korea, as the Korean War ended with an armistice, not a peace treaty. This geopolitical tension, coupled with the pressure of being sandwiched between China and Japan, presents unique challenges for South Korea.

South Korea is a nation that has successfully navigated the path from war-torn poverty to economic prosperity and global cultural influence. Despite the geopolitical tensions that persist, the country continues to forge ahead, driven by innovation, cultural richness, and an indomitable spirit. South Korea’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic planning, and cultural vibrancy. It serves as an example for other nations aspiring to similar heights of development and global impact.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Korean Adjectives – Descriptive verbs and how to conjugate them

Last modified: May 14, 2024 | 1 min read | By Laura Toyryla

Just like how adjectives are used in English, Korean adjectives are that fun little thing that can make an otherwise dull sentence pop out with color and character. We imagine trying to come up with sentences without using any would often come across as quite flat and lifeless.

By equipping yourself with a diverse range of Korean adjective knowledge, you’re one step further into mastering a new language. On top of that, you’ve learned tons of words to dress up and add depth to your sentences.

In this lesson, we will teach you a little bit about how to use Korean adjectives and give you a list of the most common ones. To further help you understand how they are used, we have also prepared some sample sentences for you to view and take notes on. Let’s get learning!

• 1.1 How do you say “Korean adjectives” in Korean?
• 2.1 Conjugating irregular Korean adjectives
• 2.2 Korean adjectives in their different forms
• 3 Conjugated Korean adjectives list
• 4 How to use Korean adjectives in sentences
• 5.1 Korean adjectives – Colors
• 5.2 Korean adjectives – Distances, Sizes, and Shapes
• 5.3 Korean adjectives – Qualities and Situations
• 5.4 Korean adjectives – Traits, feelings, and moods
• 5.5 Korean adjectives – Tastes
• 6 Sample sentences for Korean adjectives

What are Korean adjectives (Descriptive verbs)?

Just like in other languages, a Korean adjective also describes whether a noun is big or small, young or old, cheap or expensive, and so on. And just like with Korean verbs , there are also irregular adjectives in the Korean language .

How do you say “Korean adjectives” in Korean?

The word for “ adjective ” in the Korean language is 형용사 (hyeongyongsa). You can use it whenever you are talking about adjectives in general.

How to conjugate adjectives in Korean

Adjectives in Korean need to be conjugated when in use; instead of picking the Korean word out of a Korean dictionary and directly placing it into a sentence as you first saw it. After all, these conjugations give a more precise meaning to the Korean word.

We already have a blog post introducing you to the basic rules of Korean conjugation , but we’ll go over how to specifically conjugate Korean adjectives below.

• The basic way to conjugate a Korean adjective is by removing 다 from the word. You will then be left with the verb stem.
• The next step is to add the appropriate ending (~ㄴ/은/는) to the verb stem. This depends if the verb stem ends in a vowel or consonant .
• If the verb stem ends with a consonant, you will add ~은 or ~는. ~는 typically only follows after the verb stem ends in the letter ㅅ or ㅆ.
• In the case of a vowel, ~ㄴ is added to the verb stem.
• Note that typically Korean adjectives ending with ~적, such as religious (종교적 | jonggyojeok) are written with ~인 conjugation.

Conjugating irregular Korean adjectives

In the case of the aforementioned irregular Korean adjectives, here’s how to conjugate them.

• If the adjective stem ends in ㅂ, drop the ㅂ, and add ~운.
• If the adjective stem ends in ㄹ, the ㄹ gets dropped, and ~ㄴ is added to the stem, treating the word stem sort of like it ends in a vowel.
• Note that not all of the adjective stems ending in ㅂ are irregular descriptive verbs.
• Also, in some cases, when the adjective stems end in ㅎ, it will get dropped, and the stem gets treated as if it ends in a vowel. However, in some cases, the ㅎ remains, and the ~은 ending gets added instead.

Korean adjectives in their different forms

As you learn Korean further, you’ll notice that there are also situations where you can use the adjective in its basic form or dictionary form.

This is possible in situations where the Korean adjective comes after a noun, although typically only in certain types of written text. You might get to use it in an academic article but might look a little funny using it in a text conversation with a friend .

In many ways, conjugating Korean adjectives work the same way as conjugating a verb would. In fact, if we get technical with it, Korean adjectives are actually descriptive verbs derived from their base form, which is the infinitive verb form. They simply gain the form of a Korean adjective through correct conjugations.

Thus, in the Korean language, rather than separate Korean verbs and adjectives, there are action verbs (verbs) and descriptive verbs (adjectives). Some action verbs are also possible to shape into descriptive verbs by using them together with certain descriptive words.

Conjugated Korean adjectives list

Below are different examples of conjugated Korean adjectives to help you better understand the concept above.

How to use Korean adjectives in sentences

There are two positions you can place the Korean adjective in a sentence: before or after the noun . Its placement determines the way it is conjugated.

• The adjective appears before the noun. If the adjective appears before the noun, for example, you are describing “a small house,” you will conjugate the adjective as shown above. This means that if a stem ends in a consonant, you can add ~은. If the stem ends in a vowel, you can add ~ㄴ, and then the irregular adjectives have their own ending.
• The adjective appears after the noun. In these cases, what you are saying is closer to “the house is small.” Here you can just use the dictionary form if it is in written text or used among close friends, or follow the regular conjugation of the different tenses. You can use either the present, past, or future tense with adjectives.

Most common Korean adjectives

Finally, here is the most useful and basic Korean adjectives list for you to learn. We’ve presented them in their dictionary form, but with the above directions, you will be able to use them in sentences. Below we’ve also included a few sample sentences to further illustrate how Korean adjectives act in sentences.

Korean adjectives – Colors

Below are Korean adjectives for colors. These adjectives can help you describe nouns easier, just as “blue eyes,” “yellow dress,” “black hair,” etc.

You can also learn what more colors in Korean are called with our article on the topic. Note that while colors also count as adjectives, in the Korean language, they are not seen as descriptive verbs, unlike most other adjectives.

Korean adjectives – Distances, Sizes, and Shapes

If you’d like to describe nouns based on their dimensions, distances, sizes, and shapes, then you can familiarize the Korean adjectives list below.

Korean adjectives – Qualities and Situations

Korean adjectives can be used to describe the weather, a person, qualities, and situations. These words can help readers and listeners have a clearer picture of them.

In this section, you’ll learn the different adjectives in Korean that you can use to describe words for qualities of a person or weather, and other situations.

Would you also love to find out how to describe different weathers and seasons? Head over to our article about Weather and Seasons in Korean !

Korean adjectives – Traits, feelings, and moods

Here are adjectives in the Korean language to describe someone’s traits, feelings, and moods. You can better express whether you’re happy , sad , or any emotions that you currently feel . If you’re saying these through text, you can even pair these words with emoticons to express yourself better.

“Funny” in Korean

To describe something as “funny” in Korean, just like Korean jokes or comedy movies , you can say 우습다 (useupda). This word can also mean “hilarious.”

“Nice” in Korean

The Korean word for “nice” is 착하다 (chakada). You can use this to describe someone kind or good-hearted. For instance, if you asked for someone’s help  and someone offered you assistance, then this word can describe them.

“Sleepy” in Korean

The word for “sleepy” in Korean is 졸리다 (jollida). But if you mean to say “ tired ,” you can use the term 피곤하다 (pigonhada) instead.

“Mean” in Korean

The word for “mean” in Korean is 비열하다 (biyeolhada),

Korean adjectives – Tastes

Here are some adjectives in Korean to help with describing nouns with certain tastes and textures. These adjectives will come in handy if you’d like to describe what a certain Korean dish tastes like for you.

Sample sentences for Korean adjectives

To get you properly started with using Korean adjectives in sentences, here is an ample amount of examples of Korean sentences . You can study each sentence and its meaning for you to understand how to use adjectives in the Korean language better.

우리 고양이는 너무 귀엽 지? (uri goyangineun neomu gwiyeopji?)

Isn’t our cat so cute ?

비싼 프라다 가방을 사고 싶어요. (bissan peurada gabangeul sago sipeoyo.)

I want to buy an expensive Prada bag.

그 발코니가 되게 넓어요 . (geu balkoniga doege neolbeoyo.)

The balcony is very wide.

북유럽에서는 여름에 거의 자정까지 바깥 날씨가 밝다 . (bungnyureobeseoneun yeoreume geoui jajeongkkaji bakkat nalssiga balda.)

In Northern Europe, it is light outside until almost midnight in the summer.

와, 한라산을 오르는 게 이렇게 힘든 줄은 몰랐네. (wa, hallasaneul oreuneun ge ireoke himdeun jureun mollanne.)

Whoa, I did not realize it was this hard to hike up Hallasan.

오늘 정말 높은 굽의 신발을 신고 싶어요. (oneul jeongmal nopeun gubui sinbareul singo sipeoyo.)

Today I want to wear shoes with really high heels .

제일 가까운 병원은 어디예요? (jeil gakkaun byeongwoneun eodiyeyo?)

Where is the nearest hospital?

미국에서 한국까지 너무 멀어요 . 비행시간은 13시간이 넘네요! (migugeseo hangukkkaji neomu meoreoyo. bihaengsiganeun 13sigani neomneyo!)

The USA is really far from South Korea . The flight time is over 13 hours !

나는 긴 머리가 갖고 있는것 좋아요 . (naneun gin meoriga gatgo inneungeot joayo.)

I like having long hair .

그 사람은 기쁜 사람인가요? (geu sarameun gippeun saramingayo?)

I wonder if that person is pleased?

세계에서 가장 아름다운 곳이 어디라고 생각하나요? (segyeeseo gajang areumdaun gosi eodirago saenggakanayo?)

Where do you think is the most beautiful place in the world?

그 영화가 생각보다 더 괜찮았네.  (geu yeonghwaga saenggakboda deo gwaenchananne.)

That movie was nicer than I thought it would be.

나는 놀라서 크게 소리를 질렀다. (naneun nollaseo keuge sorireul jilleotda.)

I screamed loudly in surprise .

이 수업이 너무 지루해 . (i sueobi neomu jiruhae.)

This class is so boring.

내일 편안한 옷을 입고 오세요. (naeil pyeonanhan oseul ipgo oseyo.)

Please wear comfortable clothes tomorrow.

아! 방금 발목을 삐었어요. 너무 아파요 ! (a! banggeum balmogeul ppieosseoyo. neomu apayo!)

Oh! I just sprained my ankle. It hurts so much !

저는 파랑색을 제일 좋아해요. (jeoneun parangsaegeul jeil joahaeyo.)

그 하얀 집은 엄청 예쁘지 아닌가요? (geu hayan jibeun eomcheong yeppeuji aningayo?)

Isn’t that white house really pretty?

한국에서 단 빵은 인기가 많아요 . (hangugeseo dan ppangeun ingiga manayo.)

Sweet bread is popular in South Korea.

Sample Conversation:

당신의 남동생은 아주 조용한 사람인것 같아요. (dangsinui namdongsaengeun aju joyonghan saramingeot gatayo.)

Your brother seems to be a very quiet person.

A: 클럽에 갈래요? (keulleobe gallaeyo?)

Wanna go to a club?

B: 미안해요, 복잡한 장소들은 안좋아해요 . (mianhaeyo, bokjapan jangsodeureun anjoahaeyo.)

I’m sorry , I don’t like crowded places.

A: 토마스 씨, 들 수 있는 가장 무거운 무게는 뭐예요? (tomaseu ssi, deul su inneun gajang mugeoun mugeneun mwoyeyo?)

Thomas, what is the heaviest weight that you can lift?

B: 스쿼트에서 100kg을 들 수 있어요. (seukwoteueseo 100kgeul deul su isseoyo.)

I can lift 100kg in squats.

A: 너도 어제 숙제가 유난히 어렵다고 생각했니? (neodo eoje sukjega yunanhi eoryeopdago saenggakaenni?)

Did you think yesterday’s homework was unusually difficult?

B: 안 그래? 너무 쉬운 줄 알았어. (an geurae? neomu swiun jul arasseo.)

It wasn’t, though? I thought it was super easy!

Wow! That are so many new cool Korean adjectives and words for you to learn today! If you are still in the mood to widen your Korean vocabulary today after that mammoth of a list of Korean adjectives, why not check out our more general list of most popular Korean words ? Can’t go wrong with this resource in learning Korean!

Also, below in the comments, we’d love to know what your most commonly used Korean adjectives are. Perhaps you could try to showcase them by using Korean adjectives only? We’re excited to know the most popular adjectives used as we learn Korean these days!

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4 thoughts on “Korean Adjectives – Descriptive verbs and how to conjugate them”

Why do Koreans sometimes use ~ineun to conjugate some adjectives?

Hi, ~이는 can be often found in verbs that ends with 이다. For example, 반짝이는 별 (=twinkling start) is from the verb 반짝이다 (to twinkle). If there is an adjective that has letter 이 at the end of the roots, you would add 는 after it and then you will also have ~이는.

How do I conjugate the adjectives based on tense?

Hi Nari, you can conjugate adjectives in the same way you do with the verbs. For example, for the past tense, use -았어요 (asseoyo) and 었어요 (eosseoyo), like 걸었어요 for “walked”, 길었어요 for “was long.” To learn more about that, you can check out our article Korean Conjugation – How to Use Verbs & Adjectives

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South Korea: History, Facts and Culture

South Korea is a developed country in East Asia with a population of 51 million people. It is located on the Korean Peninsula with a capital in Seoul, the 5 th largest megapolis in the world. Having a rich history that has started in the 7 th century, along with rapid modernization in the last few decades, the country has developed a unique culture that blends traditional and modern elements. I would like to briefly discuss South Korean history and then delve into some of the cultural features that led to South Korea being one of the most prosperous countries in the world.

South Korea was not an independent country until the Korean War that lasted from 1950 to 1953, which resulted in the Korean Peninsula being divided into North and South Korea. Throughout its history, South Korea was a part of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, which were united later and ruled by Goryeo and Joseon dynasties of emperors. In 1910 Korea was colonized by Japan and was only freed after World War II when the tension between North and South of Korea started to escalate., The end of authoritarian rule in 1987 established the country as a thriving democratic republic (Central Intelligence Agency, 2020). The economic growth of the country has been steady since then.

The Korean entertainment industry is one of the most influential ones the world. The so-called Korean Wave which has started in the 90s, after Korea became a democracy, signified the rise of Korean cinema, TV, and music. South Korea has been successfully exporting its national goods abroad and making a profit. By now, there are very few people who do not know about K-pop. The first time K-pop won over the whole world was when a Korean artist PSY released his song “Gangnam Style,” which held the first place in the charts for a long time. Now we are witnessing the second coming of K-pop, as the obsession over the groups, such as BTS and BLACKPINK takes the Western world by storm. K-pop industry is centered on making as much money as it can while producing cheap content, so the stream of new music is endless. The music business has also helped South Korea battle the stereotypes about it in recent years, further establishing it as a progressive country in the eyes of the public from around the world.

Another part of the Korean Wave is its TV shows. Even though this type of media has not gained worldwide popularity as K-pop did, Korean television defines the preferences of the whole Asian region, mainly distributing its product there (Ganghariya & Kanozia, 2020). Korean cinema, on the other hand, had a breakthrough in the last few decades, which led to Parasite becoming the first foreign film to win an Oscar. Directors such as Bong Joon-ho and Pak Chan-wook are now very well-known abroad and some Korean films, for example, Oldboy and Train to Busan , have earned cult status.

Korea is also famous for its food and especially for kimchi, a side dish of salted vegetables, that has become the country’s signature specialty. Korea was an isolated country, and it was hard to trade with it, so Koreans got their food from fishing and hunting, and preserving food was always their main priority. Isolation also caused the cuisine to be very simple, as there was no input from neighboring countries (Patra et al., 2016). Kimchi embodies just that – it is simple and can be stored for a very long time.

In conclusion, South Korea has only become independent less than a hundred years ago, but it managed to have a renaissance in the recent decades, developing new cultural staples and preserving the ones that Koreans kept for thousands of years.

Central Intelligence Agency. (2020). East Asia/Southeast Asia: Korea, South . Web.

Ganghariya, G. & Kanozia, R. (2020). Proliferation of Hallyu wave and Korean popular culture across the world: A systematic literature review from 2000–2019. Journal of Content, Community & Communication , 11 , 177–207. Web.

Patra, J. K., Das, G., Paramithiotis, S., & Shin, H. S. (2016). Kimchi and other widely consumed traditional fermented foods of Korea: A review. Frontiers in Microbiology , 7 , 1493.

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South Korea

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South Korea , country in East Asia . It occupies the southern portion of the Korean peninsula. The country is bordered by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea ( 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; to the southeast it is separated from the Japanese island of Tsushima by the Korea Strait . South Korea makes up about 45 percent of the peninsula’s land area. The capital is Seoul .

South Korea faces North Korea across a demilitarized zone (DMZ) 2.5 miles (4 km) wide that was established by the terms of the 1953 armistice that ended fighting in the Korean War (1950–53). The DMZ, which runs for about 150 miles (240 km), constitutes the 1953 military cease-fire line and roughly follows latitude 38° N (the 38th parallel ) from the mouth of the Han River on the west coast of the Korean peninsula to a little south of the North Korean town of Kosŏng on the east coast.

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Geologically, South Korea consists in large part of Precambrian rocks (i.e., more than about 540 million years old) such as granite and gneiss. The country is largely mountainous, with small valleys and narrow coastal plains. The Taebaek Mountains run in roughly a north-south direction along the eastern coastline and northward into North Korea, forming the country’s drainage divide. From them several mountain ranges branch off with a northeast-southwest orientation. The most important of these are the Sobaek Mountains , which undulate in a long S-shape across the peninsula. None of South Korea’s mountains are very high: the Taebaek Mountains reach an elevation of 5,604 feet (1,708 meters) at Mount Seorak in the northeast, and the Sobaek Mountains reach 6,283 feet (1,915 meters) at Mount Jiri . The highest peak in South Korea, the extinct volcano Mount Halla on Jeju Island , is 6,398 feet (1,950 meters) above sea level .

South Korea has two volcanic islands—Jeju, off the peninsula’s southern tip, and Ulleung , about 85 miles (140 km) east of the mainland in the East Sea—and a small-scale lava plateau in Gangwon province. In addition, South Korea claims and occupies a group of rocky islets—known variously as Liancourt Rocks, Dok Islands (Korean), and Take Islands (Japanese)—some 55 miles (85 km) southeast of Ulleung Island; these islets also have been claimed by Japan .

There are fairly extensive lowlands along the lower parts of the country’s main rivers. The eastern coastline is relatively straight, whereas the western and southern have extremely complicated ria (i.e., creek-indented) coastlines with many islands. The shallow Yellow Sea and the complex Korean coastline produce one of the most pronounced tidal variations in the world—about 30 feet (9 meters) maximum at Incheon , the entry port for Seoul.

South Korea’s three principal rivers, the Han, Geum, and Nakdong, all have their sources in the Taebaek Mountains, and they flow between the ranges before entering their lowland plains. Nearly all the country’s rivers flow westward or southward into either the Yellow Sea or the East China Sea; only a few short, swift rivers drain eastward from the Taebaek Mountains. The Nakdong River , South Korea’s longest, runs southward for 325 miles (523 km) to the Korea Strait. Streamflow is highly variable, being greatest during the wet summer months and considerably less in the relatively dry winter.

Most of South Korea’s soils derive from granite and gneiss. Sandy and brown-colored soils are common, and they are generally well-leached and have little humus content. Podzolic soils (ash-gray forest soils), resulting from the cold of the long winter season, are found in the highlands.

The greatest influence on the climate of the Korean peninsula is its proximity to the main Asian landmass. This produces the marked summer-winter temperature extremes of a continental climate while also establishing the northeast Asian monsoons (seasonal winds) that affect precipitation patterns. The annual range of temperature is greater in the north and in interior regions of the peninsula than in the south and along the coast, reflecting the relative decline in continental influences in the latter areas.

South Korea’s climate is characterized by a cold, relatively dry winter and a hot, humid summer. The coldest average monthly temperatures in winter drop below freezing except along the southern coast. The average January temperature at Seoul is in the low 20s °F (about −5 °C), while the corresponding average at Busan , on the southeast coast, is in the mid-30s °F (about 2 °C). By contrast, summer temperatures are relatively uniform across the country, the average monthly temperature for August (the warmest month) being in the high 70s °F (about 25 °C).

Annual precipitation ranges from about 35 to 60 inches (900 to 1,500 mm) on the mainland. Daegu , on the east coast, is the driest area, while the southern coast is the wettest; southern Jeju Island receives more than 70 inches (1,800 mm) annually. Up to three-fifths of the annual precipitation is received in June–August, during the summer monsoon, the annual distribution being more even in the extreme south. Occasionally, late-summer typhoons ( tropical cyclones ) cause heavy showers and storms along the southern coast. Precipitation in winter falls mainly as snow, with the heaviest amounts occurring in the Taebaek Mountains. The frost-free season ranges from 170 days in the northern highlands to more than 240 days on Jeju Island.

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• How to write a descriptive essay | Example & tips

How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 30, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 14, 2023.

A descriptive essay gives a vivid, detailed description of something—generally a place or object, but possibly something more abstract like an emotion. This type of essay , like the narrative essay , is more creative than most academic writing .

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Descriptive essay topics, tips for writing descriptively, descriptive essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about descriptive essays.

When you are assigned a descriptive essay, you’ll normally be given a specific prompt or choice of prompts. They will often ask you to describe something from your own experience.

• Describe a place you love to spend time in.
• Describe an object that has sentimental value for you.

You might also be asked to describe something outside your own experience, in which case you’ll have to use your imagination.

• Describe the experience of a soldier in the trenches of World War I.
• Describe what it might be like to live on another planet.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to describe something more abstract, like an emotion.

If you’re not given a specific prompt, try to think of something you feel confident describing in detail. Think of objects and places you know well, that provoke specific feelings or sensations, and that you can describe in an interesting way.

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The key to writing an effective descriptive essay is to find ways of bringing your subject to life for the reader. You’re not limited to providing a literal description as you would be in more formal essay types.

Make use of figurative language, sensory details, and strong word choices to create a memorable description.

Use figurative language

Figurative language consists of devices like metaphor and simile that use words in non-literal ways to create a memorable effect. This is essential in a descriptive essay; it’s what gives your writing its creative edge and makes your description unique.

Take the following description of a park.

This tells us something about the place, but it’s a bit too literal and not likely to be memorable.

If we want to make the description more likely to stick in the reader’s mind, we can use some figurative language.

Here we have used a simile to compare the park to a face and the trees to facial hair. This is memorable because it’s not what the reader expects; it makes them look at the park from a different angle.

You don’t have to fill every sentence with figurative language, but using these devices in an original way at various points throughout your essay will keep the reader engaged and convey your unique perspective on your subject.

Use your senses

Another key aspect of descriptive writing is the use of sensory details. This means referring not only to what something looks like, but also to smell, sound, touch, and taste.

Obviously not all senses will apply to every subject, but it’s always a good idea to explore what’s interesting about your subject beyond just what it looks like.

Even when your subject is more abstract, you might find a way to incorporate the senses more metaphorically, as in this descriptive essay about fear.

Choose the right words

Writing descriptively involves choosing your words carefully. The use of effective adjectives is important, but so is your choice of adverbs , verbs , and even nouns.

It’s easy to end up using clichéd phrases—“cold as ice,” “free as a bird”—but try to reflect further and make more precise, original word choices. Clichés provide conventional ways of describing things, but they don’t tell the reader anything about your unique perspective on what you’re describing.

Try looking over your sentences to find places where a different word would convey your impression more precisely or vividly. Using a thesaurus can help you find alternative word choices.

• My cat runs across the garden quickly and jumps onto the fence to watch it from above.
• My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above.

However, exercise care in your choices; don’t just look for the most impressive-looking synonym you can find for every word. Overuse of a thesaurus can result in ridiculous sentences like this one:

• My feline perambulates the allotment proficiently and capers atop the palisade to regard it from aloft.

An example of a short descriptive essay, written in response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how a descriptive essay works.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

If you’re not given a specific prompt for your descriptive essay , think about places and objects you know well, that you can think of interesting ways to describe, or that have strong personal significance for you.

The best kind of object for a descriptive essay is one specific enough that you can describe its particular features in detail—don’t choose something too vague or general.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, August 14). How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved August 5, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/descriptive-essay/

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• 15 Reasons Why You Should...

15 Reasons Why You Should Visit South Korea at Least Once in Your Lifetime

While South Korea might not yet be the number one travel destination for many around the world, there are plentiful reasons why you should visit the country of the morning calm on your next vacation. From history to culture and food to religion, take a look at our guide to the top reasons why you should visit South Korea at least once in your lifetime.

Pulsating culture.

Natural Feature

Due to their long history, South Koreans have a variety of traditions they have kept alive throughout centuries. Still today, you can watch traditional Korean dance and music performances, while people love to dress in traditional clothes ( hanbok ) – you can rent it to wear around Seoul and Jeonju , for example. Even in modern Seoul, you can still find traditional hanok house neighborhoods with lovely teahouses that have been in existence for decades. This mix of old and new is truly fun to explore when traveling in South Korea.

Rich History

The history of South Korea is long and dating back over a thousand years. Due to the natural isolation of the Korean Peninsula, the country’s culture hasn’t changed as much as in other regions. Still today, you can stand in awe of some of the most significant cultural heritage sites of the country, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace , the main palace situated in Seoul . The city of Gyeongju is also a place of historic value and is often called a ‘museum without walls’. Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty from 57 BC – 935 AD and is home to countless royal tombs, palaces, and temples that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Year-round Festivals

When you are for the first time in South Korea, make sure you visit a festival . Every year, there are more festivals in South Korea than one could attend, with a couple of main festivities everyone likes to join in with. When the snow melts and the weather gets warmer, pink and white cherry blossoms transform South Korea into a magical wonderland for a short period at the beginning of spring, and thousands of people come to see the blossoms from all over the country. Buddha’s Birthday is another major holiday celebrated in May with lantern parades and performances at local temples, while in fall, Koreans celebrate their own version of Thanksgiving during Chuseok and honor their ancestors during proudly conducted ceremonies. In fact, there are festivals in every month of the year for every taste.

Exciting Food

Koreans are very proud of their unique cuisine. This is another result of the country’s natural isolation and climate leading to particular food preparation methods. Take kimchi , for example, the country’s number one side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables that are kept in jars for months, one of many practices used to protect food during harsh winters. Over the centuries, Koreans have created a fascinating and rich food culture made up of meat dishes, stews, soups, noodle dishes, seafood and many vegetable side dishes. Visit South Korea and you should spend an entire day roaming street markets sampling your way through this concert of flavors.

Vibrant Cities

While Seoul is arguably the most thrilling city in South Korea, it’s not the only large city that’s worth a visit. Despite its small size, South Korea has plenty of exciting cities from north to south. Busan in the very south, for example, is the country’s second largest city and located on a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and clear ocean water. Jeonju in the west of the country is one of the last places featuring a traditional old town with Korean hanok houses and a beautiful destination in spring and fall. Each of Korea’s nine provinces has its own local cuisine and attractions that are worth exploring.

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K-pop Culture

South Korea is world-famous for its exciting music culture. K-pop is not only a music genre, it’s part of Korean culture that captures people all over Asia and the world. Walking down main pedestrian streets in South Korea, you will hear the latest hits of the industry. K-pop fans visit South Korea in waves and visit their favorite group’s or singer’s music label, get a K-pop makeover or visit K-pop-themed cafés. If you’re not yet into Korean music, we guarantee you that after you visit South Korea, you will be.

Korean Trendsetters

K-pop and Korean fashion go almost hand in hand. However, in recent years, South Korea has not only become known for coming up with quirky outfits for their boy and girl groups but also setting global trends in regular fashion. Seoul Fashion Week, for example, is becoming more and more visited by international designers and fashion labels who visit fashion shows to import Korean fashion lines to their home countries in Europe, America, Africa and all over Asia. Visiting Seoul, visitors will also notice that South Koreans, in general, are very fashionable and love to experiment and show off their hot streetwear on the streets of Seoul. Visit Dongdaemun, Gangnam or Myeongdong to get your own sets of Korean outfits to take home with you.

Quirky Entertainment Options

Entertainment is very important to South Koreans and they come up with new ways to keep themselves amused almost every month. We have all heard of the quirky themed cafés all over Seoul that offer visitors the chance to pet cats or dogs, play with racoons, cuddle with meerkats and engage with all kinds of other animals. There are also themed cafés that allow you to dress up as a princess and take pictures or eat food shaped like poop. Karaoke rooms have also been part of Korean entertainment for decades and are popular among all age groups. PC rooms are also well-visited, usually by a younger crowd, who compete in a variety of online games with people from all over the world – so much so that South Korea has become a leading force in global e-sports.

You can find even more tranquility and inner peace when joining a one- or two-day templestay program, which allows you to spend some time living like Buddhist monks in temples across Korea. While the Korean templestay program might not be as heard of around the world, it’s a well-established organization offering English-speaking programs to anyone around the country. Whether you want to experience a templestay in downtown Seoul or in rural South Korea on top of a mountain, the options are endless and the results are incredibly rewarding.

Futuristic Modernity

In contrast to its historic landmarks, South Korea is a pioneer in creating new and innovative structures. Looking at Seoul, for example, you are surrounded by futuristic buildings in one part of the city, such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza by Zaha Hadid, while traditional hanok neighborhoods lie just around the corner. Earlier this year, Seoul proudly opened the world’s fifth largest skyscraper piercing majestically out of the ground overlooking the Han River. It comes with little surprise that some of the world’s leading companies are also located here, including Samsung, Hyundai and Kia.

Make-up and Skincare

Ever wonder why Korean women (and men!) have flawless and stunningly beautiful skin? Koreans see taking care of their skin as an essential part of their daily lives and they spend more money on skincare and beauty than anywhere else in the world. Many Koreans even have a ten-step morning and night routine they strictly follow day after day to maintain their beautiful skin. It’s therefore no wonder that South Korea is home to countless skincare and make-up brands offering the most innovative and futuristic products on the global market. If that’s not a great reason to come to Korea, then we don’t know what is!

Quiet Countryside

As South Korea is not yet a worldwide popular vacation destination like its neighbors China and Japan , you will find untouched rural areas giving insight into traditional Korean lifestyle. While around 20% of all South Koreans live in and near Seoul, it’s especially the small rural villages where you can find peace and quiet. The well-connected railway and express bus systems make it easy to also explore the less visited areas of the country. You’ll be surprised that you can find lush rice terraces and hidden temples right here in South Korea.

Stunning Coastline and Beaches

Due to South Korea being a peninsula, the country offers miles and miles of beautiful coast and stunning beaches. Korea also has a lot of beautiful islands, the most popular and largest one being Jeju Island . Jeju Island is one of Korea’s most visited destinations thanks to its exceptional natural wonders and breathtaking beaches. Another beautiful beach and coastal region is Jeollado in the west of the country. Moreover, the eastern coast is famous for beautiful sunrises, the earliest in the country.

Picturesque Mountain Ranges

South Korean attractions include beautiful national parks. Despite its small size, South Korea is home to 22 national parks with countless mountains. The island of Jeju has the highest peak in South Korea, the shield volcano Hallasan. Another popular hiking area is Seoraksan, the third tallest mountain in the country at 1,708 meters (5,603 feet). You can hike around this national park on Culture Trip’s 10-day adventure around South Korea . It’s exactly this combination of mountains and coast that make South Korea such a thrilling destination.

Four Amazing Seasons

Due to South Korea’s location in East Asia, the country is blessed with changing seasons. This makes Korea an exciting place to travel and live. No matter when you travel to Korea, you’ll be surprised with breathtaking seasonal changes in nature, such as cherry blossoms in the spring, flower fields in the summer, colorful foliage in the fall and a white wonderland in the winter. Besides the changing weather, each season also has special festivals and also dishes, such as the Taebaeksan Snow Festival in winter and cold noodles in summer.

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About South Korea

South Korea is an extraordinary country filled with beautiful beaches, thriving cities, ancient temples, remarkable natural scenery and most importantly, friendly people. South Korea has come a long way since The Korean War ended in 1953. Almost all of South Korea was completely leveled during the war which is hard to imagine if you have seen Korea recently.

Summary of an Extraordinary Country

Korea’s dense urban centers, developed parks and recreation facilities, high tech infrastructure and ultra modern public transportation systems are just some of the things that have made Korea a recognized hotspot for international business and travel.  Seoul Olympic Park , located in the capital city of Seoul, preserves the spirit of the 1988 Summer Olympics and is open all day providing multipurpose areas for sports, leisure and a variety of cultural activities.

To this day, South Korea remains one of the world’s most ethnically homogenous countries. It is believed that the people of South Korea are direct descendants of several migratory Mongol tribes who ventured into the Korean Peninsula about a half million years ago. Today South Korea is home to approximately 49 million people making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. South Korea currently maintains diplomatic relationships with over 170 different nations.

What is South Korea Famous For?

High speed trains, k-pop, broadband internet, hi-tech manufacturing, taekwondo.

South Korea is home to an endless number of world class attractions and annual festivals that foreigners and locals alike enjoy each year. There’s something for everyone in Korea and a person could easily spend years traveling around the country exploring all that it has to offer.

South Korea boasts one of the world’s largest international airports , the third largest subway system and the third fastest land train, the KTX, carrying people from one end of Korea to the other in less than 3 hours at speeds in excess of 360km/hour.

South Korea is one of the most law abiding countries in Asia, leaving foreigners to the country, men and women alike, feeling quite safe in rural and metropolitan areas . Koreans are interested in you but not aggressive in nature; however, one should always use caution when travelling alone in a foreign place.

Per capita, South Korea has the highest number of broadband internet users in the world; a token to its achievement as a high-tech economy. South Korea is also the world’s largest cargo ship builder which is part of the reason why Korea is now one of the world’s 12 biggest economies.

At times, Koreans may stop and stare at westerners, this isn’t meant to intimidate them, it’s simply because they find westerners intriguing and they’re interested in their appearance, culture and attitudes. It’s not unusual for Koreans to offer you food or drinks at a bar or restaurant in order to hear you speak and practice their English.

What is the climate of South Korea?

The climate in South Korea is temperate with 4 distinct seasons. There are heavy monsoon rains in the summer months June through September with temperatures exceeding 35°C. The winter months can see temperatures dropping to -14°C in the northern provinces.

TaeKwon-do is South Korea’s national Martial Art

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Interesting facts about Korea

• Land Mass In Korea – South Korea occupies 98,477 sq kilometers of land mass.
• National Holidays In Korea – Korea celebrates 12 Korean national holidays . As an English teacher in Korea you have the benefit of enjoying these days off of work.
• Official Language In Korea – The official language of South Korea is Hangul. If you would like to learn more about their official language, or you’re interested in learning how to read, write and speak Hangul, there are various online courses to help.
• South Korea Government –South Korea is a republic nation with shared power between the president, legislature and the courts. In 2012, the Korean people elected the first ever female president – Park Geun Hye.
• South Korea Sports – South Korean people are very active and many sports that westerners are familiar with are common place. You will find Koreans practicing and playing baseball, basketball, soccer, golf, hiking, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving, fishing, dance, mountain biking, bowling, table tennis and badminton…just to name a few. South Korea also has an active break-dancing and salsa culture.

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Exploring Seoul’s Rich History: An Insightful Essay Sample

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Journey to the Past: Unearthing Seoul’s Millennia-old History

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is officially known as the Seoul Special City because it is a directly controlled municipality of equal status to the country’s provinces. The Korean term Seoul is the direct translation of the word capital city. According to Ladd (n.d.), this reference to Seoul was first used in 1946, following the end of the Second World War II. The city is located in the middle of the Korean Peninsula, close to the western coastal line, and in the northwest corner of South Korea proper, several kilometers from the Demilitarized Zone border separating South Korea from North Korea. The port city of Incheon neighbors Seoul to the west. Incheon, Seoul, and other satellite cities form the Great Seoul region.

High mountains surround Seoul. In addition, the capital city is regarded as the Korean center of architecture, politics, religion, and other significant cultural expressions such as dance, art, and fashion. This has made it a significant tourist destination in Asia. Seoul is the largest metropolitan area in the world after Tokyo, with over 25 million inhabitants (Kim, 2012b). The main language spoken in this city is Korean. Almost half of all South Koreans reside in Seoul alone. However, the city is home to many ex-patriots as well. It is classified as a megacity and the largest city in the OECD. Two main religions are practiced in Seoul: Christianity and Buddhism. However, several minor religions exist, such as Confucianism.

Seoul has a long and rich history. Shin and Sneider (2011) assert that 600 years of Korean history can be found within this city. However, the overall history of the region can be traced back to 18 BC (Shin & Sneider, 2011). It is thus believed that the history of Seoul calculated from the present goes back over two millenniums. Seoul has developed mainly as a capital city since its inception in the 14th century (Shin & Sneider, 2011). This is because various dynasties have constantly used it as their capital. The city’s propitious location between mountains and a river presents a clue for this preference and explains why kings favored it. For instance, King Taejo, the first ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, one of the kingdoms that settled in Seoul, chose this city as his capital. Currently, Seoul is one of the leading and rising global cities. The city has undergone an economic boom that has propelled it to this position. This economic transformation, commonly known as the miracle on the Han River, has led to the city contributing to a significant chunk of South Korea’s GDP.

Embarking on a Timeless Journey: Unraveling Seoul

This study seeks to trace the history of Seoul from the beginning of ancient times to the current modern, metropolitan city that it has become. This discussion aims to explore Seoul as a city from when it was founded in the 14th century to the current time in the 21st century. An etymology of the city will also be given. The focus is to present the historical development of the city’s name, Seoul. This is because the city has been known by many names throughout history. The early history of Seoul will also be assessed. This will feature two main areas of interest. The first will be the prehistoric period of the city. This information will be derived from the findings of various archaeological studies conducted on the city. The second area of interest will cover the three kingdoms period. This will feature an exploration of three dynasties that ruled Seoul and the impact of this on the historical development of the city. The final area of interest will include the city’s architectural development, religion, and language.

The Tapestry of Time: Seoul’s Historical Saga

What’s in a name tracing seoul’s nomenclature through the ages.

Seoul has, throughout its history, been known by several names. One such name was Wirye-Seong. Kim (2014) postulates that this was the name used for the city during the Baekje Kingdom. Another name that was used to refer to this city was Namgyeong. This name was mostly used during the time of the Goryeo dynasty. Hanseong is another name that was used to refer to the city. This took place during the era of both the Baekje and Joseon Dynasties. Another name that this city was given was Hanyang. The name was mostly used during the Joseon era. When the city came under colonial rule, the name Gyeongseong was used as a reference. During the Japanese annexation of Korea, the city was called Keijo. The Japanese Imperialists made this change to eliminate confusion with the name Hanja, which was also a reference to the Han in Chinese. The current name, Seoul, derives from the Korean language used in ancient times, meaning capital. The city received this name after the nation gained independence from Japan following the end of the Second World War in 1945.

The Dawn of Time: Seoul’s Ancient Beginnings

Prehistoric. Humans first settled in the area of current-day Seoul during the Paleolithic age. They were believed to have made settlements along the Han River and nearby areas such as Kanghwa, Yong-in, P’aju, and Inch’ on. This has been confirmed by archaeological findings that illustrate people in this area started to live a settled life during the Neolithic age. According to Seth (2010), some prehistoric remains discovered in present-day Seoul are believed to date back approximately 3000-7000 years ago. It is believed that discoveries such as bronze were responsible for prompting the people living in this area during the prehistoric age to slowly move away from the Han River. As a result, the people started to make settlements in the direction of inland settlement regions. During this prehistoric time, it is believed that people lived in small, tribal states. Their main activity was farming, which they carried out using tools made of stone and earthenware. Some of the relics discovered by archaeologists include dolmens and shell mounds. These relics indicate a civilization along the fertile parts of the Han River basin during prehistoric times.

The period of the 3 kingdoms. The background of the three kingdoms shows that their rule began from around 57 BC to 668 AD (Ladd, n.d.). In addition, it is sometimes said that the three kingdoms first emerged during the time of Christ. Kim (2014) suggests that the term the three kingdoms was first used to refer to these kingdoms in titles of Korean histories around the 12th and 13th centuries. The historical title of Samguk Sagi was used in the 12th century, while Samguk Yusa was used in the 13th century (Kim 2014). Using these two terms for these three kingdoms allows them to understand the Chinese three kingdoms. The formation of the three kingdoms is believed to have been after the fall of Gojosean, a significantly ancient kingdom. At this precise time, each of the three kingdoms decided to conquer the weaker states around them and ended up in the Peninsula region where modern-day Seoul was located.

These three kingdoms comprised the ancient Baekje, Silla, and Goguryeo kingdoms. They are regarded as some of the kingdoms that influenced Seoul greatly, with this influence even spanning to the present. It is believed that all three kingdoms had similar cultures and languages. This was critical since it made it easy for the kingdoms to assert their control in the city when one of them was removed from power following its defeat by another. Besides the obvious political influence of these three kingdoms, they also brought in new ways of life that were significant in influencing the cultural development of the Asian city. This touched on aspects such as religion, language, and architecture as each Kingdom tried to assert its presence in the city. One important factor is that Silla later unified the three kingdoms after centuries of conflict. Kim (2012a) postulates this was around 57 BC and AD935. This allowed the three kingdoms to practice significant control over the entire Peninsula region. This Kingdom first conquered the Kingdom of Goguryeo and then the Kingdom of Baekje after ending its alliance with it. Historians spoke of a unified Korea for the first time during this time.

The ancient Kingdom of Baekje. The Kingdom of Baekje, also known as Paekche, is believed to be the first to show its presence in Seoul. Kim (2012b) said Baekje was a highly centralized and aristocratic kingdom. It was first founded as a member of the Mahan Confederacy. This existed between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD in the region around the Korean Peninsula, where modern-day Seoul is located. This Kingdom was believed to have amalgamated Chinese and indigenous influence into the city. The Kingdom of Baekje occupied Seoul in the 3rd century AD (Kim 2012b). This was a time in the Kingdom when it was believed to have gathered enough strength and advantage to defeat its rivals and thus take control of the city. Some of these rivals were other Mahan chiefdoms. Its official entry into Seoul took place around 18 BC. It is believed that the capital city of the Kingdom of Baekje Wiryeseong was inside modern-day Seoul. Further, some of the city’s remains have been established to be dated from this period, confirming the existence of the Baekje Kingdom.

During the reign of this Kingdom in Seoul, many interesting cultures were introduced to the city. This did not only touch the way of life of the people of this city but also their system of governance. Seth (2010) states one such new introduction was the father-to-son royal succession, which became a common Korean custom. This is said to have been introduced by the Baekje Kingdom, particularly by King Geun Chugo. Later on, the grandson of King Geun Chugo made a significant contribution to Seoul when he introduced a new religion, Buddhism, which became the city’s most common and accepted religion. This took place around the year 384 (Kim, 2012a). Shin and Sneider (2011) note that before its defeat in 660 by the alliance between Silla and the Chinese Tang Dynasty, bringing about a unified Silla, the Baekje Kingdom controlled a significant western part of the Korean Peninsula. This control stretched as far as the North of Pyongyang. It is also believed that the Baekje Kingdom had influence as far as China with territories such as Liaoxi. The presence of this Kingdom in such areas had a noteworthy influence on Seoul, introducing new practices and ways of life into the city.

The ancient Kingdom of Goguryeo. The Goguryeo Dynasty defeated the Kingdom of Baekje and took over the Korean Peninsula region. The dynasty was seeking to strategically establish its position in the region. This was believed to have occurred in 392 (Ladd, n.d.). At the time, the Goguryeo Kingdom was also called the Northern Kingdom. This Kingdom emerged from the North and south banks of the Yalu River. Its emergence occurred in the wake of the fall of the Gojoseon Dynasty. The Kingdom is first mentioned in Chinese records dating back to 75 BC (Kim, 2012a). This was through a remark concerning a commandery that the Han Dynasty established. This Kingdom is said to have been very well advanced, and it brought this advancement to Seoul and transformed it into a leading city of the region at the time. One fact about this Kingdom that makes it stand out is that it was the largest of the three. The large size of the Kingdom of Goguryeo extended to border China. This led to it being influenced by Chinese culture, which it brought to Seoul when it established it as its capital. This Chinese cultural influence led to the city adopting Buddhism as its official religion.

The ancient Kingdom of Silla. However, the control of the Goguryeo Dynasty was short-lived. This was due to the seizure of the region by Silla. Seth (2010) notes that the Kingdom of Silla initially allied with the Baekje in 551 and established control of the region. However, the alliance ended later, and Silla decided to conquer the entire peninsula region for itself. This thus became the last Kingdom to govern the city of Seoul.

According to Ladd (n.d.), the Kingdom of Silla was initially named Saro before being renamed Silla in 503. It is vital to note that the name Silla was also used in this city. Before succeeding in taking over the Peninsula Region and the city of Seoul, Silla had to fight off enemies such as the Goguryeo Kingdom. To do this, it decided to form new alliances and thus reached out to the Tang Dynasty of China. Following its defeat of its rival Goguryeo, this Kingdom ended its alliance with this Chinese Dynasty. Before cutting off ties with the Tang Dynasty, besides gaining a political ally that helped it defeat its enemies, the Kingdom of Silla also gained from the dynasty in other ways. Thus, besides its own culture, Silla also included some aspects of the culture of the Tang dynasty. The high officials of the Kingdom were trained at the Confucian Academy. Despite the amalgamation of some aspects of the culture of the Tang Dynasty, Silla’s culture remained distinct and one of the most advanced in the world. This, to a large extent, paints a picture of the status of things in Seoul about culture during the time of the Silla Kingdom in the city.

As mentioned earlier, Silla practiced Buddhism in the city since the three kingdoms were culturally similar. Consequently, this became the official religion used in Seoul after establishing the Kingdom in the city. However, the Kingdom of Silla differs slightly from the first two kingdoms of Baekje and Goguryeo in that it was less influenced by Chinese culture.

The three kingdoms from an archaeological perspective. An archaeological perspective can be used to further understand the influence of the three kingdoms in Seoul. Some of the main archaeological sites that can be dated back to this period include excavated cemeteries, many of which are located in the mountains surrounding the city. It is claimed that the archaeological evidence of the three kingdoms’ existence has increased considerably over the years. Kim (2012b) affirms that this increase peaked during the 1990s. In particular, this increase has featured sites involving ancient industrial production, roads, palaces, ceremonial sites, and houses of commoners. An archaeological discussion of the three kingdoms will feature the following aspects. The first will involve the formation of the three kingdoms. The second part of the discussion will feature archeological evidence from burials. The third part of the discussion will entail archaeological evidence from the factory production of pottery and roof tiles. The final part of the archaeological evidence will highlight various monumental architecture and capital cities.

The archaeological discussion on the formation of the three kingdoms begins with the assertion that there existed various links of complex societies of people in the chiefdoms of Korea that can be dated back as far as 700 BC, as postulated by (Shin & Sneider, 2011). However, some of the best evidence suggests that the three kingdoms developed around 300 BC and 300 or 400 AD (Seth, 2010). This, however, does not necessarily mean that states existed during the BC era, as archaeologists have yet to prove this with certainty. This archaeological evidence shows that the correlates of state societies did not develop at one particular time; instead, this took place in spurts and started at various points in time. Kim (2014) states that the development of states and thus the possibility of the existence of the three kingdoms became a possibility around 100-400 AD. This is confirmed by the fact that this was when most individual states, societies and kingdoms had come about in good numbers.

The archaeological discussion on the development of the three kingdoms using evidence from burials began with archaeologists analyzing cemeteries. These were discovered around the late 2nd century. The discovery was made in regions believed to have been the Kingdoms of Silla and Gaya. The analysis results indicated that these were graves belonging to the elites of that time (Kim, 2012a).

This was true for the prestige grave goods. This, however, was not witnessed on a regional scale among the cemeteries. Further archaeological evidence shows that during this time, the size of the graves of the elites was increasing. These graves used a wooden chamber construction technique. Changes began to emerge during the 3rd century. A distinct pattern began to show in the cemeteries of the single elites considered to hold the highest status. The cemeteries of these elites were constructed along ridgelines, on hilltops, and in the region’s mountainous areas. This is a critical fact given that mountains surrounded the city of Seoul, indicating that the cemeteries of the elites must have been constructed in these areas. To further enhance the importance of their status, the high-status elites were buried in much larger tombs located at the highest points. This information sheds light on how burials took place in Seoul as the three kingdoms introduced their aspects of the burial process and the cemeteries.

The archaeological evidence on factory production focuses specifically on pottery and roof tiles. While archaeological evidence from the burial places of the three kingdoms were indicators of the regional political hierarchies that existed at the time, this evidence can also be used to show the economic activities and culture of the three kingdoms. Pottery was one of the main activities that was performed in the three kingdoms. In the beginning, the people focused on varying their pottery production. However, this gradually ended and ultimately disappeared and was replaced with full-time specialization in pottery production. According to Seth (2010), this change came at the end of the 4th century, when pottery production was critical in the three kingdoms. The vessels that were produced became standardized and production centralized. The archaeological excavation at Songok-dong in Gyeongju evidence this. This excavation provides evidence of the ancient industrial complex that must have existed in Seoul during the periods of each of the three kingdoms in the city. During the excavation of the archaeological sites in the 1990s, some of the discovered artifacts included remains of pottery kilns, roof tile kilns, and kilns made from charcoal (Shin & Sneider, 2011). Other interesting archaeological remains that were found included buildings and workshops that were linked with the production of this pottery.

Other significant periods of Seoul. Following the fall of the Three Kingdoms, other powers showed interest in controlling Seoul, leading to additional periods in the city’s history.

Goryeo period. The first of these was the Goryeo period. The Goryeo Dynasty came into Seoul and the peninsula region under the leadership of Wang Geon, who was described as a formidable military leader. Kim (2014) opines in particular that the dynasty came to Seoul following the defeat of its rival, the Kingdom of Silla, in 935. This officially ended the rule of the three kingdoms in Seoul. The dynasty was established in 918 by King Taejo (Kim 2014). One of the most interesting facts about Goryeo is that it is believed to be where the name Korea originated. Goryeo occupation of this region unified the boundaries that Korea today retains and those of the city of Seoul. Goryeo interest in Korea and, ultimately, in Seoul was fueled by the common belief that the most strategic Kingdom is one that has control of the Peninsula Region. This region was significant and was thus fought for by many as it was the center of transportation critical in driving economic activities. According to Ladd (n.d.), this occurred in 1104 following the Goryeo interest in gaining control of the city. The ruler of the Goryeo Dynasty at the time, King Sukjong, quickly instructed the construction of a palace in Gaesung. This area at the time was known as the Southern Capital or Namgyeong. The Goryeo period saw the city develop into a region with high political standing. This dynasty was just like others before it fell. Its collapse was due to an uprising led by General Yi Seong-Hye. He then proceeded to establish the Joseon dynasty.

Joseon period. The second period became the Joseon Period. This is believed to be the period when Seoul’s significance as a city began. This dynasty emerged in Seoul following the defeat of Goryeo by General Yi Seong-Hye. Kim (2012b) reiterates its presence in Seoul was first felt in 1394. The Joseon Dynasty decided to move its capital to Seoul. At the time, the city was known as Hanyang. This name was later changed to Hanseong, which meant “Fortress City on the Han”, as it was located on the basin of the Han River. It is believed that this was when the city became the capital of Korea. Yi Seong-Hye, now the king, had searched extensively for a location before settling on Seoul. He had wanted a place that would operate as a long-term phase of his government. Another reason why Yi Seong-Hye chose Seoul as his capital was because the city was geographically ideal for constructing palaces. Furthermore, it was an area that was fit for people to live in. Apart from palaces, stately buildings and royal shrines were also built.

The occupation of Seoul by the Joseon Dynasty lasted throughout its reign and ended later, following the fall of the Kingdom. The city was referred to as a fortress because it was surrounded by an immense circular wall that was put up during the reign of King Taejo, whose goal was to have a secure capital city. Therefore, the significance of this wall is to guarantee protection to the citizens of the city from various wild animals and other threats, such as outside invaders. During the wall construction, the ancient Koreans were aided by the plans of the inner mountains surrounding the city and geomatics. The inner walls made constructing the wall easier because the natural terrain along the ridgeline of the inner walls of the four mountains was used to show how the wall would follow in its construction. It is estimated that about 197,000 workers built the wall (Shin & Sneider, 2011). This lasted for 98 days, with the wall stretching for 17 kilometers (Shin & Sneider, 2011). A significant part of this wall remains intact in present-day Seoul and is an important tourist site. It is essential to note that this wall was vital for the city, and because of this, it underwent two major repairs. The first occurred in 1422, while the other occurred in 1899 (Shin & Sneider, 2011). That second repair was carried out to ease the impact of the city’s rapid modernization and expansion that was taking a toll on its infrastructure.

Further changes to the wall took place in the 20th century (Shin & Sneider, 2011). Seth (2010) reiterates that 1907, a wall section was torn down to allow the then-Prince Yoshihito to pass through as he visited Seoul. The prince had refused to use the gates to enter the city. This gate was later restored in the 1970s (Seth, 2010). This restoration involved the Samcheong section. The gates of the wall, which have come to be referred to as the Eight Gates, were open during the day and closed at night. The people were alerted of this opening and closing of the gates through large ringing bells. The trace of the city during this period can still be felt in modern-day Seoul. In particular, these traces include the south gate and the east gate, referred to as Namdaemun and Heunginjimun, respectively, at the time following their construction.

The initial years of Joseon rule in Seoul were relatively peaceful. During this time, Seoul grew into a real cosmopolitan city. One development during this time was the Korean alphabet, which, according to Kim (2012a), came about around the 14th century. King Sejong is credited with having pushed for its development. Another significant historical development was Confucianism, which became the religion of the day. To assert the adaptation of Confucianism into the city, the Joseon Dynasty completely banned Buddhism and Catholicism. This was practiced only in the mountains and the countryside.

Journeys Through Modernity: Seoul’s Recent Past

The Korean Empire period. The third period was the Korean Empire Period. This was a recent period that commenced in the late 19th century. In particular, this period began in 1897, following the end of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea (Kim, 2014). It was a significant moment for Seoul as, for almost a century, the city remained in isolation. This isolation spawned the origin of the name Hermit Kingdom, which was used by Western nations to refer to Korea, a legacy that continues today as the modern state of North Korea has been given this moniker. However, according to Ladd (n.d.), in the 19th century, the city opened itself to foreigners and developed a spirit for modernization. This led the city to make a concerted effort to catch up to the world, and over time, it became a leading modern city in Asia by being the first to have electricity, water, and modern communication systems through the development of the telephone and telegraph system. By opening itself up to foreigners, Seoul was able to undergo this transformation as a result of the trade that it conducted with its new foreign allies, notably the United States and France.

The modernizing process of the city following Korea’s decision to open itself up to the world can be understood as follows. The Gwangmu Government embarked on a mission to modernize the infrastructure of Korea and, thus, that of Seoul as the empire’s capital. According to Seth (2010), the emperor at the time allowed Korea to enter into a joint venture with an American company, leading to the creation of the Hanseong Electric Company. It was through this company that Korea and, subsequently, Seoul received electricity. This was consequential in helping other industries advance as they now had a convenient power source. Another significant advancement during this period was the creation of Seoul Fresh Spring Water Company, which was closely linked to American associates. This further modernized the city by making it easy for residents to access water. The Gwangmu Government is highly credited for promoting industrial advancement in Seoul and Korea. In addition to overseeing the business relations between Korea and the outside world, the government provided substantial support in developing technical and industrial schools, many of which were founded in Seoul.

Colonial period. This was also a significant time for Seoul as it marked the end of the city’s control by the feudal system of kings, aristocrats, peasants, enslaved people, and outcasts and introduced a new system of governance through the military. This took place when Imperial Japan annexed the entire Korean Empire. Shin and Sneider (2011) observe that following its success in colonizing Korea, Japan established Seoul as its capital. The colonial rule lasted from 1910-1945 (Shin & Sneider, 2011). At the time, the Japanese decided to call the city Keijo. This had the literal meaning of the capital city in Hanja. One positive that came from this is the city became highly urbanized. According to Shin and Sneider (2011), despite the harsh rule of its Japanese conquerors, the modern aspects of the city grew considerably. Besides urban growth, other developments that took place included expansion of commerce in the city, mass cultures such as radio, and industrial development, mainly in Seoul as the capital. According to Kim (2014), by the end of Japan’s rule in Korea, Seoul was the most dynamic city in Asia.

Seoul, at the time of Japanese rule, had 2 wards. The first was Keijo itself, while the second was Ryusan-ku. Japan’s control of the city ended following the Second World War in 1945 (Shin & Sneider, 2011), although the official end of Japanese rule in Korea ended in 1948, lasting 35 years. Japanese rule over Korea might have modernized Seoul, but it had a devastating effect on the city culturally. The Japanese wanted complete control over Korea and eliminated Korea’s culture by destroying Korean palaces. One major act by Japan in its endeavor to eradicate Korean culture came through its insistence that Koreans change their names and adopt Japanese names instead. The country was uncertain despite the end of Japanese colonial rule in Korea. It had no experience with modern governance systems, while on the other hand, dynasty monarchy-style rule had been eliminated following Japan’s invasion.

Development after the end of the Second World War. It is essential to note that following the end of the Second World War, which was also significant in ending Japan’s colonial rule over Korea, things did not immediately change for Seoul. This was due to the division and the subsequent Korean War. But on another note, according to Kim (2012b), the city took up its current name, Seoul, during this period. The end of Japanese colonial rule paved the way for the Republic of Korea, which made the city it’s capital. The tension between the two factions took place, dividing the Republic of Korea into South and North Korea. This led to the breakout of the Korean War. During the war between the two sides, Seoul changed hands four times. The effect was its destruction when South Korea took back the city.

Contemporary period. Today, Seoul is a modern city with a highly modern and technologically advanced society that contributes to Asia’s overall development and is a leading force in innovation. This can be seen from its streets filled with magnificent skyscrapers and a population of over 10.3 million (Kim, 2014). Thus, this has become where everything significant in South Korea is centered. In addition, Seoul acts as a representative of the economic development of dynamic South Korea. The South Korean infrastructure is well-developed for supporting public transport. For instance, the city’s subway system is one of the main methods of travel among Seoul’s residents and visitors. This has been essential in making this relatively compact city smaller by connecting all the parts of the city.

Edifices of Time: The Architectural Wonders of Seoul

This discussion will feature the architecture of Seoul from the time of the three kingdoms and other significant periods of Seoul’s history.

The Octagonal Odyssey: A Tour of Seoul’s Eight Gates

Among some of the most fascinating architectural designs that exist in Seoul are the Eight Great Gates. A discussion of these gates provides an in-depth understanding of the historical development of the architecture of Seoul from the ancient times during the three kingdoms to the present.

The first gate under discussion is Namdaemun, also known as the Great South Gate or the Gate of Exalted Ceremonies. Its construction commenced in 1365, and the structure was completed in 1398 (Shin & Sneider, 2011). This gate was the largest, oldest, and most famous in Seoul. In modern-day Seoul, the gate is located next to one of the city’s major markets, which ultimately came to be named after the gate and is believed to have existed since the 1400s (Ladd, n.d.). During ancient times, this gate was used by foreigners to enter the city. Unfortunately, the gate was destroyed during arson in 2008 (Kim, 2012b). Despite this, the gate had existed for more than five centuries before its destruction, demonstrating the magnificent architecture of Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty.

Dongdaemun, also known as the Great East Gate, has a market with its name next to it. This market is the city’s most crowded and busiest shopping center. Having the markets near the gates was a measure of preventing congestion inside the city. This gate encompasses a significant amount of the city wall. The gate was initially put up in 1396, although it was reinforced in 1453 and rebuilt in 1869 (Seth, 2010). One unique feature of this gate is its exterior contains a wall built to reinforce it and ensure the effective defense of the city. Other architectural details include an arched hongyemun opening at the center of the granite base. The ornamentation on the gate is extremely detailed and typical of the Joseon Dynasty.

Bukdaemun Gate, also referred to as the Great North Gate, was first constructed in 1396 (Shin & Sneider, 2011). It was, however, not utilized as a gate but was instead built to fulfill the need for a fourth great wall for the dynasty of Joseon. The gate was used for the first 18 years after it was built and then shut down due to superstitious beliefs that an evil spirit could use it to enter the city. This was due to this gate’s closeness to the mountains where the cemeteries of the elite were located. This gate is open today; however, it is under strict security, as users must present their passports or IDs to get through. The reason for this tight security was the assassination attempt of then-president Chung Hee Park in 1968, which was believed to have given the assassins access to the presidential residence.

Seoudaemun, sometimes called the Great West Gate, is believed to have initially been constructed in 1396 but was later rebuilt in the 18th century (Kim, 2014). Most of this gate’s history is tied to the Japanese. For instance, it is said that this gate was the site where Japanese assassins murdered Korea’s last queen, Myungsung. In addition, this gate’s destruction came under Japan’s hands following its occupation of Korea. While this gate no longer exists, plans for its rebuilding are underway.

Dongsomun, sometimes known as Hyehwamun, which means Distribution of Wisdom, is the small northeast gate. Following the construction of the eight gates, this was the main gate used in Seoul. The original name given to this gate was Hongwhamun, which was changed in 1511 to the current name (Seth, 2010). With time, this gate lost relevance and was no longer used, leaving it frail. The gate was later restored in 1744 by the order of King Yeongjo (Ladd, n.d.). Due to the great work done towards restoring this gate, it has become a major tourist site today.

Buksomun, as one of the Eight Gates, means ‘Showing the Correct Thing’. First built in 1396, it is among the smallest gates and is the small northwest gate (Ladd, n.d.). It was mainly used as a public passage. The gate was shut down just a few years after its construction in 1416 due to superstitious beliefs that led to the claim that it could harm the king. (Shin & Sneider, 2011). Despite this, the gate was reopened in 1506. Japan was instrumental in destroying the wall during its entry into the city during its conquest of Korea. This is the oldest gate among the eight, following the destruction of the gate south gate by arson.

Namsomun, located in the southeastern part of the city, is also one of the smallest gates. It is sometimes referred to as Gwanghimun or the Gate of Bright Prosperity. As with the other gates, it was first constructed in 1396. It has undergone rebuilding and restoration over the years since its construction (Ladd, n.d.). The city’s residents mainly used the gate for funeral processions. Not much remains today of this gate apart from its stone pavement. This is due to Japanese forces’ destruction of a large chunk of it. This gate is located in present-day Seoul on a street corner enclosed by a fence. Despite this disclosure, visiting the gate is not restricted.

The Gate of Seosomun, which means the Gate of Clear Justice, is also one of the smaller gates located southwest of the city. Like several others, this gate was built in1396 (Ladd, n.d.). Like the gate of Namsomun, Seosomun was used for funeral processions from the city and served as a public passage. Prisoners were publicly beheaded in a park near this gate. Their heads were usually displayed on the gate after the beheading ceremony to serve as a warning. Like the other gates, Japan once again had a hand in destroying this gate when it invaded Korea and Seoul. The Japanese later demolished this gate to establish themselves in the city and erase the Korean culture. This destruction was so thorough that no traces of the gate remain today.

Royal Echoes: The Majestic Palaces of Seoul

The palaces of Seoul represent the power that existed during the occupation of some of the powerful dynasties and kingdoms in the city while it served as their capital. These palaces are a source of the history and culture of Seoul during this time.

Changgyeong Palace. This palace, one of Seoul’s most popular tourist attractions, was built by King Sejong as a present to his father. Although little is known about its original name, its current name, Changnyeong, was given to the palace in 1483 following its renovation (Ladd, n.d.). The palace was used during the rule of the two main dynasties in Seoul: the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties. During their occupation of Korea during colonial times, the Japanese fulfilled their wish of undermining Korean culture by building a zoo and a garden at the palace site. Notably, this palace was considered among the five grand palaces during the ancient times of the three kingdoms in Seoul. Japanese eventually destroyed the palace during their attempts to invade Korea.

Gyeongbokgung Palace. Among the five grand palaces, this is believed to be the oldest and the largest. It was built in 1395 by King Taejo (Seth, 2010). Its name, Gyeongbokgung, means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven.” Only a little remains of the original palace as the Japanese destroyed it during the invasion of Korea. Despite this, significant restoration was carried out on the palace in the 1990s (Shin & Sneider, 2011). This results in restoring the palace to something close to its original version. Currently, it is one of the most visited parts of the city by tourists eager to get a feel for the history of Seoul and Korea as a nation.

Changdeokgung Palace. The Palace of Prospering Virtue, or Changdeokgung, was first built in 1405 (Ladd, n.d.). It was the second royal palace to be built in Seoul. Of note about this palace is that it is the palace that was occupied the longest by kings. This can be attributed to the political strife that existed in the Kingdom and also due to personal preference by kings as a result of it having maintained many of its traditional elements compared to the other palaces. As in the case of the rest of the great palaces, it, too, suffered great destruction, mostly in the hands of the Japanese. It has, however, been restored over the years to resemble its original design and thus has become a place of interest for many tourists visiting the city.

Deoksugung Palace. This was not originally built as a palace but became one following the Japanese destruction of the other palaces, forcing the royals to make this their temporary home. King Gwanghaegun gave this palace the name Gyeongungung. The original name Deoksugung, the Palace of Virtuous Longevity, was given in 1907 (Seth, 2010) to sustain King Gojon’s longevity, the last Joseon Kingdom king and the first emperor of Korea. The present location of the statue in the city is small in comparison to the rest of the other great palaces. The statue of the Great King Sejong can be seen in this palace.

Gyeonghuigung Palace. The name of this palace translates to “the Palace of Serene Harmony.” This was initially not among the great palaces of the day but was built where the royals could be moved in an emergency. In short, this palace was more like a safe house. It was built in 1623 (Ladd, n.d.). Initially, it was a relatively large palace containing about 100 buildings with a bridge connecting it to the Deoksugung Palace (Shin & Sneider, 2011). Once again, Japan hurt this palace by destroying it during its occupation of Korea. However, the palace has been restored to its former glory and is a tourist attraction.

Spiritual Crossroads: Tracing the Sacred Pathways of Seoul

Tracing the history of religion in Seoul entails understanding Korea’s religious practices and beliefs. The various religions practiced from this time to the present will be discussed.

Before the current religions practiced today, ancient societies practiced a religion that Mu guided. Buddhism was later introduced during the period of the three kingdoms. For instance, Buddhism was the most commonly practiced religion in both the Silla and Baekje Dynasties. Buddhism was also practiced in the later period of the Kingdom of Goryeo. According to Kim (2012a), the expansion of Buddhism as a religion was so great that it became a political force. Despite this, Chinese-influenced Confucianism managed to assert itself in these ancient kingdoms. This became the main ideology and belief system practiced in the Joseon Dynasty.

Consequently, the Joseon Dynasty worked to suppress the practice of Buddhism and the indigenous religion of Shamanism. This was accomplished by destroying Buddhist monasteries and restricting nuns and monks from entering cities. This lasted until the 19th century, making Confucianism the main religion practiced in Seoul, given that it was the capital city of the Joseon Dynasty (Kim, 2012a). Western religions made their way into Korea and, consequently, Seoul following the collapse of the Joseon Kingdom. Thus, Christianity became a significant religion in Korea, allowing missionaries to enter its cities.

Further religious development came to pass from 1945 onwards (Kim, 2014). This marked the year when Korea was divided into two rival states. One of the consequences of this is many Christians made a move to South Korea as the Communist ideals of the North were not favorable to them. Believers of the Cheondoism remained in the North, thus resulting in South Korea having a limited number of believers of this faith. During the 1970s and 80s, the South Korean government banned indigenous faiths (Kim, 2012b). This resulted in the revival of Buddhism, and the influence of the Christian faith grew significantly. Besides the indigenous religions of Shamanism, Cheondoism, and other faiths that include Buddhism, Confucianism and Christianity, other religions are also practiced in South Korea, including Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism. It is, however, critical to note that these faiths are practiced in very low numbers.

Words of History: Exploring the Linguistic Tapestries of Seoul

To understand the historical development of language in Seoul, it is first essential to gain an understanding of the Korean alphabet. The alphabet in South Korea is referred to as Hangul. On the other hand, a different name, Chosongul, is used in North Korea. The term Chosongul is used in Chinese as well. This alphabet has been the foundation of language since the 15th century (Shin & Sneider, 2011). The evidence of its existence and development was described in Hummin Jeongeum. The translation of the name of this document means “The Proper Sounds for the Educated People.” In both its classical and modern forms, the alphabet contains 24 consonants and vowels (Shin & Sneider, 2011). These are written by being grouped into blocks to form words.

From Timeless Traditions to Modern Majesty: Reflecting on Seoul’s Rich Legacy

In conclusion, the history of Seoul from ancient times to the present is extremely captivating. The fact that there is evidence demonstrating the beginning of this history from prehistoric times confirms just how old this city is. Various archaeological excavations in present-day Seoul have been used to show this. However, the most pronounced aspects of the history of Seoul came during the periods of the ancient three kingdoms of Baekje, Goguryeo, and Silla. These three kingdoms proved to be instrumental in shaping the city’s development as they brought new ways of life and culture when they used Seoul as their capital. The same thing can be said regarding the period of Goryeo, Joseon, and the Korean rules in the city. The modern period of Seoul began following Japanese colonial rule. This paved the way to the current contemporary times that have seen the city amalgamate its past with the present, making it the 20th most visited city in the world.

📎 References:

1. Kim, D. K. (2014). History of Korea ( 2nd ed.). Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO. 2. Kim, J. (2012a). History of Korea: From “land of the morning calm” to states in conflict. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press. 3. Kim, K. (2012b). The study of urban form in South Korea. Urban Morphology, 16(2), 149-164. 4. Ladd, G. T. (n.d.). In Korea with Marquis Ito: Part I. a narrative of personal experiences; Part II. a critical and historical inquiry. Retrieved from https://archive.org/details/inkoreawithmarq03laddgoog/mode/2up?view=theater 5. Seth, M. J. (2010). History of Korea: From antiquity to the present. Lanham, MD: Rowman and Littlefield Publishers. 6. Shin, G., & Sneider, D. C. (2011). History textbooks and the wars in Asia: Divided memories. New York, NY: Routledge.

Descriptive Essay: Your Guide to Writing an Effective One

A descriptive essay is one of the four main types of essays, alongside narrative, argumentative, and expository essays. Among these, descriptive essays can be particularly challenging because they demand a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for aesthetics. By vividly describing scenes and details, you engage your reader’s senses, making your essay memorable and engaging. In this guide, our essay writers will break down the writing process for you, offering step-by-step instructions, practical examples, and clear definitions to help you excel in your next assignment.

What is a Descriptive Essay?

Descriptive writing aims to vividly portray something through essays, helping readers visualize and feel the scene or object being described. Such essays draw on detailed descriptions to create a clear and impactful image that not only presents the subject but also evokes emotions and memories.

There are three main techniques used in descriptive writing: naming, detailing, and comparing .

Naming identifies the subject and its characteristics, answering questions like 'What is it?' and 'What features does it have?'

Detailing elaborates on these features, providing answers to detailed questions such as 'How many are there?' and 'What is its value?' Techniques like synesthesia and comparisons enhance these descriptions.

Comparing uses similes and metaphors to make descriptions more vivid, linking the subject to familiar concepts.

What Is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

The purpose of a descriptive essay is multifaceted. Primarily, it allows writers to give readers a vivid impression of a person, place, or event, making the subject come alive through words. By using detailed descriptions, writers can help readers visualize settings and characters as if they were seeing them firsthand.

Additionally, descriptive essays can serve to clarify abstract ideas. By describing these concepts with concrete images and examples, writers make complex ideas easier to understand and more relatable to the reader.

Descriptive essays also aim to make information more memorable. When details are vivid, they are more likely to stick in the reader's mind, enhancing recall and engagement with the text.

Lastly, it can bolster an argument by providing concrete, detailed evidence that supports a point of view. This helps persuade the reader by making the argument more tangible and credible.

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Descriptive Essay Topics

When you're tasked with writing a descriptive essay, you'll usually get a prompt that asks you to describe something. These descriptive essay prompts allow you to explore different settings, time periods, and imaginative scenarios in your essays. 

Personal Prompts:

• Describe a favorite childhood memory.
• Describe a treasured family heirloom.

Imaginative Prompts:

• Describe a day in the life of a pirate.
• Describe what it would be like to explore an underwater city.

Historical Prompts:

• Describe the atmosphere of a bustling ancient marketplace.
• Describe the experience of witnessing a significant moment in history, like the moon landing or the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Nature Prompts:

• Describe the sights and sounds of a peaceful forest at dawn.
• Describe the feeling of standing at the edge of a majestic waterfall.

Everyday Prompts:

• Describe the chaos of a busy morning commute in a big city.
• Describe the tranquility of a sunset picnic in the countryside.

If you need topic ideas for other essay genres, consult our guide on narrative essay topics .

How to Write a Descriptive Essay in 8 Steps

Now that you understand the essence and purpose of this type of essay let's explore some fundamental yet valuable tips for writing a descriptive essay. 

Step 1: Select Your Topic

The first step in creating a captivating descriptive essay is choosing the right topic. Start by paying close attention to your surroundings. 

• Consider describing a person you know well in your life, like a sibling, a close friend, or a teacher who has made a significant impact on you.
• Alternatively, you could focus on a specific place or object that holds sentimental value to you, such as a favorite vacation spot, a cherished childhood toy, or a meaningful piece of jewelry.
• Another option is to explore a strong emotion that you have experienced, like excitement, nostalgia, or determination. 

Avoid using overly technical or jargon-filled language in your topic selection. Instead, aim for simplicity and clarity to ensure that your chosen topic resonates with your audience and allows you to convey your unique perspective effectively.

Step 2: Gather Details

Once you've selected your topic for your descriptive essay, the next step is to gather details that will bring your chosen subject to life on the page. Start by closely observing your subject, whether it's a person, place, object, or emotion. Pay attention to its appearance, characteristics, and any unique features that stand out to you.

For example, if you've chosen to describe your childhood home, take note of its architectural style, color scheme, and any distinctive elements like a front porch or a cozy fireplace. Recall memories associated with the home, such as family gatherings or quiet moments spent reading in your favorite spot.

If your topic is a person, like a close friend or family member, observe their physical appearance, mannerisms, and personality traits. Consider the ways in which they interact with others and the impact they have on your life.

Step 3: Draft an Outline

When structuring your essay, you can organize your paragraphs from top to bottom or near to far, chronologically, or from general to specific. Here's a simple descriptive essay outline from our custom writers to guide you: 

Step 4: Develop a Thesis Statement

When developing your thesis statement, consider the main points or aspects of your subject that you want to highlight in your essay. Think about the emotions or impressions you want to evoke in the reader and tailor your thesis statement accordingly.

For example, if you're writing about your favorite childhood memory, your thesis statement could be: 'My summers spent at my grandparents' farm were filled with laughter, adventure, and a sense of belonging.'

Or, if you're describing a beautiful sunset, your thesis statement might be: 'The breathtaking colors and serene atmosphere of the sunset over the ocean evoke a sense of peace and wonder.'

Step 5: Craft the Introduction

Start your descriptive essay introduction by hooking the reader with an engaging opening sentence or anecdote related to your topic. This could be a vivid description, a thought-provoking question, or a surprising fact. For example:

• Growing up on my grandparents' farm, each summer brought new adventures and unforgettable memories that still warm my heart to this day.

After hooking the reader, provide some background information or context for your topic. This could include brief details about the setting, time period, or significance of your subject. For instance:

• Nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside, my grandparents' farm was a sanctuary of simple pleasures and cherished traditions.

Finally, end your introduction with your thesis statement, clearly stating the main point of your essay. This ties everything together and gives the reader a roadmap for what to expect in the rest of your essay. 

Step 6: Compose the Body Paragraphs

Once you've crafted your introduction, it's time to compose the body paragraphs, where you delve into the details and descriptions that bring your topic to life.

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or detail of your topic, expanding upon the ideas presented in your thesis statement. Use vivid language, sensory details, and descriptive devices to paint a clear picture for the reader.

For example, if you're writing about summers spent at your grandparents' farm, you could dedicate one body paragraph to describing the sights and sounds of the farm:

• The rolling fields stretched out before me, golden waves of wheat swaying gently in the breeze. The air was filled with the sweet scent of wildflowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil.

In another body paragraph, you might explore the adventures and activities that filled your days:

• From sunrise to sunset, there was never a dull moment on the farm. Whether we were exploring the woods, splashing in the creek, or helping with chores, each day brought new excitement and adventure.

Continue with additional body paragraphs, each focusing on a different aspect of your topic and providing rich, detailed descriptions. Be sure to vary your language and sentence structure to keep the reader engaged and interested.

Step 7: Conclude the Essay

The conclusion should bring together all the ideas presented in your essay. Avoid introducing any new information in the conclusion. Instead, focus on evaluating your thoughts and reflections on the topic. End with a strong final sentence that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

For example, if you were writing about summers spent at your grandparents' farm, your conclusion might reflect on the significance of those memories:

• 'As I reminisce about the summers spent amid the rustic charm of my grandparents' farm, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures and cherished moments that shaped my childhood. The laughter echoing through the fields, the adventures awaiting around every corner, and the sense of belonging that enveloped me there will forever hold a special place in my heart.'

Step 8: Refine Your Essay

Once you've finished writing your essay, it's time to refine it for clarity and impact. Start by reading your essay aloud to yourself. Listen for any sentences that sound awkward or unclear. Mark these sentences so you can revise them later.

You can also read your essay aloud to others and ask for their feedback. Invite friends, family members, teachers, or mentors to listen to your essay and share their thoughts. Ask them if there are any parts that are difficult to understand or if they have trouble picturing the subject you're describing.

Be receptive to constructive criticism and feedback. Use it as an opportunity to improve your essay and make it stronger. And if it sounds too demanding right now, you can buy cheap essay to sidestep the hassle and reclaim some much-needed free time.

Descriptive Essay Format

The standard format for a descriptive essay typically includes five paragraphs: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, you can also organize your essay into sections, allowing for flexibility in the length of the body paragraphs.

Introductory Paragraph: This paragraph sets the scene by describing where, when, and to whom the experience occurred. It should include descriptive words to capture the reader's attention.

First Body Paragraph: Here, the writer provides details that allow the reader to visualize the situation. Descriptive language is key in painting a clear picture for the reader.

Second Body Paragraph: More details are provided, with a focus on using descriptive adjectives. Figurative language, such as metaphor (e.g., describing the city as a 'jungle of concrete'), can enhance the imagery.

Third Body Paragraph: The writer continues to appeal to the reader's senses with visually descriptive words. Figurative language, like personification (e.g., describing the wind as a playful dancer), adds depth to the description.

Conclusion: The conclusion alludes to another sense, such as touch or sound, and uses strong words to signify closure. It ends with a powerful concluding sentence to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Descriptive Essay Examples

In this section, you'll discover essay examples that demonstrate how to captivate your readers' attention effectively. After exploring these examples, you might find yourself tempted to ask, 'Can someone do my homework for me?' - and that's completely understandable! We're here to help you become more confident and articulate communicators through your writing!

3 Additional Tips for Writing

While writing a descriptive essay, your goal is to make your subject come alive for the reader. Unlike more formal essays, you have the freedom to be creative with your descriptions, using figurative language, sensory details, and precise word choices to make your writing memorable.

Use Figurative Language: Figurative language, like metaphors and similes, adds flair to your descriptions. Instead of sticking to literal descriptions, use comparisons to create unique and memorable imagery. 

• For instance, describing a city as a bustling beehive of activity ' or a forest as ' a blanket of whispers ' adds an unexpected twist that captures the reader's attention.

Engage Your Senses: In a descriptive essay, don't just focus on what something looks like; appeal to all the senses. Describe how things smell, sound, feel, and even taste, if applicable. This adds depth and richness to your descriptions, making them more immersive. 

• For example, instead of just describing a beach visually, include sensory details like feeling the warm sand between your toes , hearing the rhythmic crash of waves , and t asting the salty sea breeze.

Choose Your Words Carefully: Use effective adjectives, verbs, and nouns to convey your impressions vividly. Avoid clichés and opt for original, precise language that reflects your unique perspective. Take the time to review your sentences and consider if there are better word choices that could enhance your description.

In Wrapping Up

To sum it up, descriptive essays are all about encouraging students like you to explore your surroundings and unleash your creativity by describing scenes in detail with words. When you carefully select and organize these descriptive details, it not only enhances your writing but also sharpens your critical thinking skills. Plus, diving into this expressive writing style allows you to appreciate the beauty of language and feel more connected to written communication. And remember, if you ever need a little boost in your writing journey, our descriptive essay writing service is here to help!

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is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

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• New samples
• New information on each of the rest sections 

Axelrod, R. B. and Cooper, R. C. (2008). The st martin’s guide to writing. (English Edition). New York: Bedford/St Martins

Okono, U. M. (2021). Descriptive essay: An assessment of performance by undergraduates of AkwaIbom State University. Erudite Journal of Linguistics and Languages . https://www.globalacademicstar.com/download/article/descriptive-essay-an-assessment-of-performance-by-undergraduates-of-akwa-ibom-state-university.pdf

Okono. U. M. (2020). “Qualities of a good essay: An assessment of the writings of Nigerian undergraduates.” International Journal on integrated Education. 3: vi.

https://irsc-asc.weebly.com/uploads/3/1/8/1/31813909/e7__descriptive_essay_guidelines.pdf

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K-pop Essays

K-pop, also known as Korean pop music, has taken the world by storm in recent years. With its catchy tunes, vibrant choreography, and charismatic performers, it has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. Therefore we will discuss some K-pop essay topics, ideas, and tips for writing a K-pop college essay. Here are 5 K-pop topics to write about:

• The evolution of K-pop – This topic explores how K-pop has evolved over the years, from its early days in the 1990s to its current global popularity. You can analyze the various stages of K-pop and how it has changed over the years.
• The impact of K-pop on Korean culture – K-pop is not just a music genre; it is also a cultural phenomenon that has influenced Korean society. You can discuss how K-pop has influenced Korean culture, such as fashion, beauty standards, and language.
• K-pop and globalization – This topic analyzes how K-pop has become a global phenomenon and its impact on globalization. You can discuss how K-pop has introduced Korean culture to the world and how it has influenced other cultures.
• The business of K-pop – K-pop is not just about music; it is also a massive business. You can explore how the K-pop industry works, from training programs to music production and marketing strategies.
• K-pop fandom culture – K-pop has some of the most passionate fans in the world. You can explore the fandom culture and the role of fans in the success of K-pop.

When writing a K-pop essay, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the topic. It is also crucial to research and gather relevant information to support your arguments. You can use K-pop news articles, academic papers, and documentaries as sources.

In conclusion, K-pop is a fascinating subject to explore for students looking for unique essay topics. Remember to conduct thorough research, organize your thoughts, and present your arguments clearly to impress your professor.

Intellectualism In K-pop: Hidden Intellectualism

In “Hidden Intellectualism” by Gerald Graff, he discusses his view on intellectualism by describing it through the lens of a sports fanatic, arguing that intellectualism is found in other places rather than only in academics. He goes on to explain that through sports such as...

• Hidden Intellectualism

K-Pop: Unveiling Its Discourse Community and Influence

The major difference between humans and animals is the ability to communicate with each other. Throughout the course of human development, people need a way for mass communication to reach a final decision or to represent a certain point of view or belief. This can...

• Discourse Community

The Star Of K-pop, Bts, And Their Relation To Fans

In today's generation, music with various languages has gain traction with the international audience. One of them is Korean music, or what is often referred to as KPOP. Not knowing the language doesn't stop us from enjoying it. KPOP has become a global sensation that...

• Music Industry

Understanding The Negative Sides Of K-pop Industry

The era of Korean pop music (shortly K-pop) began in the 1990s with the rise of Seotaiji and the Boys – a hip-hop group with their hit single Nan Arayo/I Know – who brought a new audience to music: teenagers. Idols’ job is not merely...

The Reasons Why K-pop And Korean Music Are So Popular

South Korea is well-known for beautiful places, delicious foods and modern technology. However when people talk about South Korea, they will mention about K-pop as well. K-pop is an abbreviation of Korean pop, according from an encyclopedia, K-pop “is a genre of popular music originating...

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The Visibility Of K-pop As A Music Genre And Wave

“There are three things that make K-pop such a visible and unique contributor to the realm of pop music: exceptionally high-quality performance, an extremely polished aesthetic, and an “in-house” method of studio production that churns out musical hits the way assembly lines churn out cars”...

Exploring Why K-pop And Korean Wave Is So Popular

Intro Hello everyone. Today I will be discussing how the integration of social media into Kpop fandoms, particularly through video streaming platforms like Youtube, has affected fan participatory culture, by altering the interaction and behaviours of fandoms and the distribution of Korean content throughout the...

The Relationship Between K-pop's Popularity And Self-esteem

Scholars have analyzed the impact that K-pop has on its audience and listeners (Lie, 2012). The popularity of South Korean popular music (K-pop) has since spread from “Japan and Taiwan” to “the Americas and the Middle East” (p. 340). This is because of the gradual...

The History of K-Pop Popularity in Latin America

K-pop means 'Korean pop', however this concept refers in general to the popular music industry in South Korea. It can be said that K-Pop is not a specific musical genre, but a mixture of different western musical styles such as rock, jazz, hip hop, among...

• Pop Culture

K-Pop Fandom as a Subculture: Comparing K-Pop and Western Fandoms

Subcultures are when individuals join specific groups to collectively carry out certain activities that deviates from mainstream culture or society (Grinnell College, n.d.). Whereas the term ‘scene’, is often used to — particularly in the context of music — capture the relationships between members, such...

Analysis of the K-Pop Industry and Its Eye-Catching Marketing

K-Pop (Korean pop music) refers to 'Korean pop music, or popular music from Korea, including dance music, modern rhythm, and blues, pop music, hip hop music.' (Wikipedia, 2019) This industry can fit in Richard Caves' seven economic properties. Firstly, in terms of A list/B list,...

The Dark Side of K-Pop Industry

The day I started writing this article was also the day I happened to visit a book fair in my hometown. I was more than surprised when upon entering, I could hear ‘Fake Love’ by Korean boy band BTS blasting on the speakers. While I...

Effects of Patronizing Korean Pop (KPOP) Songs in the Philippine Music Industry 

Abstract Philippine music, with its famous OPM and other genres of music brought by the influence of the westerners, have been affected when foreign music like Korean pop songs became famous to the Filipinos. It has been affected in a sense that only a few...

The Popularity and Love of Kpop Culture Among Teenagers

The world has many cultures trending nowadays, most of them help on shaping “the world”, what I mean is that many of these culture flow in our lives and bring impacts to our society, maybe also economic markets. One in that many cultures are becoming...

Understanding the Influence of K-Pop on Filipino Teens

Kpop are becoming more popular in Asia especially in the Philippines more particularly on Filipino Teenagers or what we call nowadays as millennials. The influence of Kpop on Filipino teenagers is gradually increasing. The visual, music, choreography, and artistic content of Korean music and videos...

My Attitude To BTS, Korea Boyband

BTS, Korea boyband, arguably the biggest boyband in the world today. Maybe you've heard it, maybe you saw it at Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. A group of sweet-faced young people who took k-pop to the next level. I've written a bit about how k-pop...

Best topics on K-pop

1. Intellectualism In K-pop: Hidden Intellectualism

2. K-Pop: Unveiling Its Discourse Community and Influence

3. The Star Of K-pop, Bts, And Their Relation To Fans

4. Understanding The Negative Sides Of K-pop Industry

5. The Reasons Why K-pop And Korean Music Are So Popular

6. The Visibility Of K-pop As A Music Genre And Wave

7. Exploring Why K-pop And Korean Wave Is So Popular

8. The Relationship Between K-pop’s Popularity And Self-esteem

9. The History of K-Pop Popularity in Latin America

10. K-Pop Fandom as a Subculture: Comparing K-Pop and Western Fandoms

11. Analysis of the K-Pop Industry and Its Eye-Catching Marketing

12. The Dark Side of K-Pop Industry

13. Effects of Patronizing Korean Pop (KPOP) Songs in the Philippine Music Industry 

14. The Popularity and Love of Kpop Culture Among Teenagers

15. Understanding the Influence of K-Pop on Filipino Teens

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Essays on Korean

Korean essay topics for college students.

As a college student, choosing the right essay topic is crucial. It's an opportunity to explore your creativity and personal interests while demonstrating your critical thinking and writing skills. This page is designed to help you find the perfect Korean essay topic that will engage and inspire you.

Essay Types and Topics

Below, you will find a selection of diverse topics for different types of essays, including Argumentative, Compare and Contrast, Descriptive, Persuasive, and Narrative. These topics cover a wide range of subjects, from technology and society to personal growth and academic interests.

Argumentative Essay Topics

• The Influence of K-Pop on Global Culture
• The Impact of Technology on Korean Society
• Traditional vs. Modern Korean Family Values

Paragraph Example

An argumentative essay on the influence of K-Pop on global culture would begin by examining the rise of K-Pop as a global phenomenon and its impact on cultural trends worldwide. The should clearly state the central question, such as "What is the influence of K-Pop on global culture?" and present a thesis, for example, "This essay will explore the ways in which K-Pop has transformed global entertainment and fashion trends."

The influence of K-Pop on global culture has been significant, shaping fashion, music, and entertainment trends around the world. As we continue to see the influence of K-Pop grow, it is important to consider the broader implications of this cultural phenomenon.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

• Traditional vs. Modern Korean Cuisine
• Education Systems in South Korea vs. North Korea
• Korean Traditional vs. K-Pop Fashion Trends

Descriptive Essay Topics

• Visiting a Traditional Korean Market
• A Day in the Life of a Seoul City Resident
• The Beauty of Korean Landscapes in Different Seasons

Persuasive Essay Topics

• The Importance of Korean Language Education
• Promoting Korean Cultural Experiences for International Students
• Preserving Korean Traditional Arts and Crafts

Narrative Essay Topics

• My First Experience with Korean Culture
• An Unforgettable Trip to Jeju Island
• Learning Korean Language: Challenges and Rewards

Engagement and Creativity

As you explore these topics, remember to engage your creativity and think critically about the subject matter. Your essay is an opportunity to express your unique perspective and voice, so choose a topic that excites and inspires you.

Educational Value

Each essay type offers unique opportunities for developing different skills. Argumentative essays can enhance your analytical thinking and research skills, while persuasive essays can help you hone your ability to persuade and influence. Descriptive and narrative essays allow you to develop your descriptive abilities and storytelling techniques. Compare and contrast essays help you refine your ability to analyze and compare different subjects or ideas.

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Korean Pop – a Genre that is Catching The World by Storm

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The Nature of K-drama Viewership Beyond South Korea

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