Marrying and Sponsoring a South Korean
Listen to this articleMarriage to a South Korean Citizen
Every country has its own laws that apply to its citizens marrying a person from a different country. Getting married to a South Korean citizen with the goal of eventually bringing them to Canada to live is a process with many steps.
If you want to bring your South Korean spouse or partner to live in Canada, you must then file a sponsorship application for them to become a permanent resident. If they would like to visit you in Canada while their application is in process, they must also apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). For more information, please see our family sponsorship page and our eTA article.
South Korean Marriage Basic Requirements
Foreign nationals are required to appear in person at their Embassy in (or at a Consulate office outside Seoul) with two copies of the Affidavit of Eligibility of Marriage (can be obtained either from the Embassy or in some cases, on-line). They should also provide a piece of identification (i.e. passport and/or birth certificate).
The couple should bring the following documents to their local district office (Gu Cheong) to report and register their marriage.
- Notarized copies (2) of the Affidavit of Eligibility of Marriage
- Passport
- Proof of termination of any prior marriage(s) such as an original or certified divorce certificate, annulment or death certificate of a previous spouse (when applicable)
- A completed application for marriage (obtained at any gu office) form, signed by 2 witnesses
- Registration Fee: about 50,000 won – (cash only) – applies when both parties are foreign nationals
The Korean spouse should have the following:
- A copy of the Korean spouse’s family registry (obtained at any dong office)
- A certificate of personal records (Korean spouse)
- A certificate of kinship (Korean spouse)
- Personal seal (stamp, Korean: In Gam: 인감)
- The signature of two witnesses may be required for the registration.
The Korean district office will issue the following documents:
- A filing receipt on the day of report;
- A verification certificate, which is the same as a Korean marriage certificate(3~5 days required – if both parties are foreign citizens, it will be issued the same day); or a marriage certificate (family register), issued when the marriage is between a Korean citizen and a foreign resident alien (7 days required).
Note: If the two parties are of different nationalities with neither being Korean, they should check their individual embassies regarding their country’s rules regarding getting married in Korea.
Marriage is a civil procedure in Korea, and performing a religious ceremony alone does not constitute a legal marriage. Anyone can be invited to officiate at the wedding ceremony, since it’s the registration process that legalizes the union.
Family Members
If your South Korean spouse has dependent children, this does not affect the South Korean Marriage document application.
If you have dependent children, they have no effect on the application to marry a South Korean citizen.
List of South Korean Consulates in Canada
Calling South Korea from Canada
To make a direct call to Canada from South Korea, you need to follow the international dialling format given below. The dialling format is the same when calling Canada mobile or land line from South Korea.
To call Canada From South Korea
Dial 00x – 1 – Canadian area code – local number
Unlike most countries, the exit code for South Korea depends on your phone provider:
| Provider | Phone exit code | VOIP exit code |
|---|---|---|
| KT | 001 | 00727 |
| LG U | 002 | N/A |
| Onse Telecom | N/A | 00365 or 008 |
| SK | 006 or 00700 | 005 or 00766 |
List of area codes in Canada
| Province | Code | Province | Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 403 / 587 (southern Alberta)
587 / 780 (central and northern Alberta) |
Nunavut | 867 |
| BC | 236 / 250 / 778 (majority of BC)
236 / 604 / 778 (Metro Vancouver) |
Ontario | 226 / 519 (southwestern Ontario)
249 / 705 (northeastern Ontario) 289 / 365 / 905 (Greater Toronto Area) 343 / 613 (eastern Ontario) 416 / 647 (Toronto) 807 (northwestern Ontario) |
| Manitoba | 204 / 431 | PEI | 782 / 902 |
| New Brunswick | 506 | Quebec | 418 / 581 (eastern Quebec)
438 / 514 (Montreal) 450 / 579 (Greater Montreal) 819 / 873 (remainder of Quebec) |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 709 | Saskatchewan | 306 / 639 |
| Northwest Territories | 867 | Yukon | 867 |
| Nova Scotia | 782 / 902 |
Calling Canada from South Korea
To call South Korea from Canada
011 – 82 – Area Code or Cellular prefix – local number
- 011 – Exit code for Canada, and is needed for making any international call from Canada
- 82 – ISD Code or Country Code of South Korea
- Area Codes are geographic while cell prefixes used to depend on the provider but now are divided between types of services
South Korean Area Codes (landlines only)
| Busan | 51 | Gwangju | 62 | Jeollabuk-do | 63 |
| Chungcheongbuk-do | 43 | Gyeonggi-do | 2, 31, 32 | Jeollanam-do | 61 |
| Chungcheongnam-do | 41, 42 | Gyeongsangbuk-do | 53, 54 | Kaesong Industrial Region | 49 |
| Daegu | 53 | Gyeongsangnam | 55 | Sejong City | 44 |
| Daejeon | 42 | Incheon | 32 | Seoul | 2 |
| Gangwon-do | 33 | Jeju-do | 64 | Ulsan | 52, 55 |
Cell Prefixes for the Republic of Korea
Cell prefixes depend on the type of service and phone.
| 2G | 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19 |
| 3G and 4G | 10 |
| Paging | 12, 15 |
Time Difference
Korean Standard Time is GMT+9. The Republic of Korea does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
| Canadian Time Zone | # of Hours Korea is Ahead |
# of Hours during DST |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific (BC, Yukon) | 17 hours | 16 hours |
| Mountain (Alberta, western Nunavut, Lloydminster, Saskatchewan) | 16 hours | 15 hours |
| Saskatchewan | 15 hours | 15 hours |
| Central (Manitoba, Northwest Territories, central Nunavut, northwestern Ontario) | 15 hours | 14 hours |
| Eastern (most of Ontario, most of Quebec) | 14 hours | 13 hours |
| Atlantic (Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, eastern Quebec) | 13 hours | 12 hours |
| Newfoundland | 12.5 hours | 11.5 hours |
Emergency Information for Canadians in South Korea
Embassy of Canada in Seoul21 Jeongdong-gil (Jeong-dong) Telephone: 82-2-3783-6000 |
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Consulate of Canada in Busanc/o Dongsung Chemical Corporation Telephone: 82 (51) 204-5581 |
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Emergency Numbers in the Republic of Korea
| Emergency | Contact |
| Fire, Emergency and Ambulance | Tel: 119 |
| Police | Tel: 112 |
| Medical Emergency: Medical information centre specifically aimed at foreigners in Seoul | Tel: 1339 |
| National Intelligence Service | Tel: 111 |
| Tourism and Translation Service | Tel: 1330 |
| Coast Guard | Tel: 122 |
| International Emergency Rescue | Tel: 02 790 7561 |
The Government of Canada’s Travel Alerts for the Republic of Korea
South Korean Money
The won is the currency of South Korea. A single won is divided into 100 jeon, the monetary subunit. The jeon is no longer used for everyday transactions, and appears only in foreign exchange rates.
During the Colonial era, the won was replaced at par by the yen, made up of the Korean yen.
In 1945 after World War II, Korea became divided, resulting in two separate currencies, both called won, for the South and the North. Both the Southern won and the Northern won replaced the yen at par. The first South Korean won was subdivided into 100 jeon.
Coins
Until 1966, 10 and 50 hwan coins, revalued as 1 and 5 won, were the only coins in circulation. New coins, denominated in won, were introduced by the Bank of Korea on August 16, 1966 in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 won, with the 1 won struck in brass and the 5 and 10 won in bronze. These were the first South Korean coins to display the date in the Common era, earlier coins having used the Korean calendar. The 10 and 50 hwan coins were demonetized on March 22, 1975.
In 1968, as the intrinsic value of the brass 1 won coin far surpassed its face value, new aluminium 1 won coins were issued to replace them. As an attempt to further reduce currency production costs, new 5 won and 10 won coins were issued in 1970, struck in brass. Cupro-nickel 100 won coins were also introduced that year, followed by Cupro-nickel 50 won in 1972
In 1982, with inflation and the increasing popularity of vending machines, 500 won coins were introduced on June 12, 1982. In January 1983, with the purpose of standardizing the coinage, a new series of 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 won coins were issued, using the same layout as the 500 won coins, but conserving the coins old themes.
Banknotes
The Bank of Korea designates banknote and coin series in a unique way. Instead of putting those of similar design and issue dates in the same series, they assign series number X to the Xth design of a given denomination. The series numbers are expressed with Korean letters used in alphabetical order, e.g. 가, 나, 다, 라, 마, 바, 사. Therefore, ₩1000 issued in 1983 is series II (나) because it is the second design of all ₩1000 designs since the won introduction in 1962.
In 1962, 10 and 50 jeon, 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 won notes were introduced by the Bank of Korea. The first issue of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 won notes were printed in the U.K. by Thomas De La Rue. The jeon notes together with a second issue of 10 and 100 won notes were printed domestically by the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation.
In 1965, 100 won notes (Series III) were printed using intaglio printing techniques, for the first time on domestically printed notes, to reduce counterfeiting. Replacements for the British 500 won notes followed in 1966 also using intaglio printing, and for the 50 won notes in 1969 using litho-printing
In 1982, the 500 won note was replaced by a coin. The following year, as part of its policy of rationalizing the currency system, the Bank of Korea issued a new set of notes, as well as a new set of coins. Some of the note’s most notable features were distinguishable marks for the blind under the watermark and the addition of machine-readable language in preparation for mechanization of cash handling. They were also printed on better quality cotton pulp to reduce the production costs by extending their circulation life.
New series
In 2006, it became a major concern that the Korean won banknotes were being counterfeited/forged. Notably the 5000 won note (worth about US$5), over 50% of the notes were confiscated as counterfeit. This led the government to issue a new series of banknotes, with the 5000 won note being the first one to be redesigned. Later in 2007, the 1000 and the 10,000 won note was introduced.
The banknotes include over 10 security features in each denomination. The 50,000 won note has 22 security features, the 10,000 won note 21, the 5000 won note 17, and the 1000 won note 19. Many modern security features that can be also found in Euros, Pound sterling, Canadian dollar, Japanese yen are included in the banknotes. Some security features inserted in won notes are:
- Holograms with 3D images that change colors within the metallic foil on the obverse side of the notes(exception of 1000 won)
- Watermark portraits of the effigy of the note is visible when held to the light in the white section of the note
- Intaglio printing on words and the effigy give off a raised feeling, different than ordinary paper
- Security thread in the right side of the obverse side with small lettering “한국은행 Bank of Korea” and the denomination
- Color shifting ink on the value number at the back of the note
For the first time in the world, the KOMSCO, the Korean mint, inserted a new substance in the notes to detect counterfeits. This technique is being exported to Europe, North America and other parts of the world.
₩1000
The South Korean ₩1000 Banknote depicts on the front Yi Hwang, Myeongryundang in Seonggyungwan and plum flowers. Yi Hwang is one of the two most prominent Korean Confucian scholars of the Joseon Dynasty, the other being his younger contemporary Yi I (Yulgok). On the back it depicts Gyesangjeonggeodo; a painting Yi Hwang in Dosan Seowon by Jeong Seon.
₩5000
The South Korean ₩5000 Banknote depicts on the frontYi I, Ojukheon in Gangneung, black bamboo. On the back it depicts Insects and Plants, a painting of a watermelon and cockscombs by Yi I’s mother Shin Saimdang.
₩10000
The South Korean ₩10000 Banknote depicts on the frontSejong the Great, Irworobongdo, a folding screen for Joseon-era kings, and text from the second chapter of Yongbieocheonga, the first work of literature written in Korean. Sejong the Great was the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea. On the back it depicts the Globe of Honcheonsigye and Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido in the background
₩50000
The South Korean ₩50000 Banknote depicts on the frontShin Saimdang with Chochungdo, A Folding Screen of Embroidered Plants and Insects which is South Korean National Treasure No. 595 in the background. Shin Saimdang was a Korean artist, writer, calligraphist, noted poet, and the mother of the Korean Confucian scholar Yulgok. On the back it depicts Bamboo and a maesil tree.
Korean Wedding Traditions
Marriage in South Korea is similar to those in the Western countries, but has unique features of its own, especially due to the influence of Korean Confucianism.
In ancient times, weddings (Honrye) were held in the bride’s yard or house. The groom travelled by horse to the bride’s house and after the wedding ceremony took his wife in a palanquin (sedan chair) to his parents’ house to live together. The bride and groom wore formal court costumes for the wedding ceremony. Ordinary people were permitted to wear the luxurious clothes only on their wedding day. Hand lanterns are used for lighting the way from the groom’s home to the bride’s home on the night before the wedding. Traditionally, the groom’s family would carry a wedding chest filled with gifts for the bride’s family. Wedding ducks are a symbol for a long and happy marriage. Cranes are a symbol of long life and may be represented on the woman’s sash.
The bride’s attire
The women’s attire includes a jeogori (저고리; short jacket with long sleeves) with two long ribbons which are tied to form the otgoreum (옷고름). A chima (치마), a full-length, high-waisted, wrap-around skirt is worn. Boat-shaped shoes made of silk, are worn with white cotton socks. The bride’s attire might include a white sash with significant symbols or flowers. A headpiece or crown may also be worn. The norigae (노리개) is a hanbok (한복) decoration which has been worn by all classes of Korean women for centuries. It is tied to the skirt or the ribbon on the jacket. The knot on the top is called the Maedeup (매듭).
The groom’s attire
A jacket (jeogori, 저고리) and trousers and an overcoat are worn. The jacket has loose sleeves; the trousers are roomy and tied with straps at the ankles. A vest may be worn over the shirt. A black hat could be worn.
The wedding costume for men is also known as gwanbok for the groom
Modern wedding ceremonies
In larger cities, luxury hotels will have ‘wedding halls’ or ballrooms used specifically for wedding ceremonies. These rooms are decorated with a wedding motif and are rented to couples. Other wedding halls are independent facilities that can accommodate several different weddings at once.
Today, many couples will initially have a more ‘Westernized’ ceremony with tuxedo attire and white wedding gown, then proceed with a smaller-scale, traditional Korean wedding after the main ceremony.
Practices before weddings
Various exchanges are crucial to the Korean wedding: gifts of household goods (Honsu); gifts of clothing and jewelry between the bride and groom (Yedan, Chedan and Paemul); gifts given to the significant kin of the groom (Yedan); gifts of cash from the groom’s kin to the bride (Cholgap), and from the bride’s family to the groom’s friends (Hamgap); and exchanges of food and wine between the two families (Sangsu). Not all practices are still common though.
The exchanges that are still common are those of ritual silk (Yedan), given by the bride to the groom’s significant kin, and the negotiation of the purchase price of the gift box (Hamgap) delivered on the night before the wedding to the bride’s house by friends of the groom.
Wedding feast and reception
The modern Korean wedding feast or reception, (kyeolhon piroyeon, 결혼피로연, 結婚披露宴) can be a mix of traditional and western cultures. At a traditional wedding feast a guest would expect to find bulgogi (불고기, marinated barbecue beef strips), galbi (갈비, marinated short ribs), a variety of kimchi (pickled cabbage with a variety of spices, with other ingredients such as radishes, seafood). There will be many accompanying bowls of sauces for dipping.
The meal is always accompanied with a vast quantity of white, sticky rice (밥) as well as gimbap (김밥), which is rice, egg, spinach, crab meat, pickled radish, and other ingredients rolled in seaweed and sliced into 1-inch rounds. Mandu (만두), dumplings filled with cabbage, carrot, meat, spinach, garlic, onion, chive, and clear noodle. These dumplings may be deep-fried or steamed. Soup will be offered, very frequently a kimchi type, or a rice cake soup (rice dumplings with chicken broth), or doenjang guk, a fermented soy bean paste soup.
Also popular are a light broth boiled from dried anchovies and vegetable soups rendered from dried spinach, sliced radish or dried seaweed. Steamed rice cakes (tteok) sometimes embellished with aromatic mugwort leaves or dusted with toasted soy, barley, or millet flour are presented as a tasty ritual food.
A large variety of fruits, such as Korean pears, and pastries will be offered for dessert. A spoon and chopsticks are used for eating.
Arranged marriage and matchmakers
A brand of arranged marriage is popular in South Korea. Koreans usually refer to this type of marriage as seon (선). Generally, parents arrange a meeting, but it is ultimately up to the couple to decide if they want to marry. However, the parental pre-screening means that the meeting has a much higher chance of success than a typical blind date, should the couple decide to wed. The reason why this type of marriage is prevalent in Korea is that marriage in Korea is not just a matter of a bride and groom but a merging of two families. Because the potential spouses are pre-screened by the family, there is much less of a chance of family opposition to the marriage.
It is rare that a single seon leads to a marriage; many succeed in finding a suitable spouse only after dozens of seon meetings with different individuals. Following the initial meeting, the couple typically dates for several months to a year before the actual marriage. The distinction between an arranged marriage and a “love” marriage is therefore often blurred, although in an arranged marriage the families tend to be more closely involved throughout.
Matchmakers are also common in South Korea. Families present their son or daughter to a matchmaker, or a single man or woman arranges a meeting with a matchmaker, to analyze their résumé and family history for the purpose of finding a marriage partner who is compatible in social status and earning potential. Koreans keep precise lineage records, and these are listed on the matchmaking résumé. Today, almost all single people meet their matched partner prior to the marriage and have more say about the match than was previously allowed. Matchmakers earn a fee for their services.
Wedding Food
Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a Korean dish that usually consists of grilled marinated beef, chicken or pork.
Galbi
Kalbi or galbi generally refers to a variety of gui or grilled dishes in Korean cuisine that is made with marinated beef (or pork) short ribs in a ganjang-based sauce (Korean soy sauce)
Kimchi
Kimchialso spelled gimchi, kimchee, or kim chee, is a traditional fermented Korean dish made of vegetables with a variety of seasoning.
Gimbap
Gimbap or kimbap is a popular Korean dish made from steamed white rice (bap) and various other ingredients, rolled in gim (sheets of dried laver seaweed) and served in bite-size slices.
Wedding gifts
If you got married in South Korea within three months before coming to Canada or if you plan to marry no later than three months after arriving in the country, you can bring in your wedding gifts free of duty and taxes. However, you must have owned and possessed the gifts while in South Korea and before you arrived in Canada. At this instance, the requirement to have used the goods does not apply. These same conditions apply to household goods you bring in as part of a bride’s trousseau from South Korea.
Ownership, possession and use requirements
To import goods duty- and tax-free, settlers must have owned, possessed and used the goods prior to their arrival in Canada and Former Residents must have owned, possessed and used the goods for at least six months before returning to resume residency from South Korea.
It is important that you meet these three requirements. For example, if you owned and possessed the goods without using them, the goods will be subjected to duty and taxes. Please note that leased goods are subject to duty and taxes because the Canada Border Services Agency does not consider that you own them. If you have bills of sale and registration documents, they can help you prove that you meet these requirements.
Declaring your goods
You must give your list of goods to the border services officer when you arrive at your first point of entry in Canada from Moldova even if you have no goods with you at the time. The officer will complete a Form B4 , Personal Effects Accounting Document, assign a file number to it and give you a copy of the completed form as a receipt based on the list of goods you submit. To claim free importation of your unaccompanied goods when they arrive, you will need to present your copy of this form. Goods to follow may be subject to import restrictions before you can import them.
To facilitate the clearance process, you can complete Form B4, before your arrival at the first port of entry in Canada.
Religion in the Republic of Korea
The predominant religions in South Korea are the traditional Buddhist faith and a large Christian population (composed of Catholic Christians and Protestants of various denominations), though a large segment of the population is not religious. The practice of both of these faiths has been strongly influenced by the enduring legacies of Korean Confucianism, which was the official ideology of the 500-year-long Joseon Dynasty, and Korean shamanism, the native religion of the Korean Peninsula.
Religion by population in South Korea
Of the South Korean population, 22.8% are Buddhist, 18.3% are Protestants and 10.9% are Catholics, and the rest adheres to various minority religions including Jeung San Do, Daesun Jinrihoe, Cheondoism, Taoism, Confucianism and Won Buddhism. A smaller minority of Koreans also profess Islam.
Large metropolitan areas had the highest proportions of people belonging to formal religious groups: 49.9 percent in Seoul, 46.1 percent for Busan, and 45.8 percent for Daegu. South Korea has the third highest percentage of Christians in East Asia or Southeast Asia, following the Philippines and East Timor.
Buddhism
Buddhism entered Korea from China during the Three Kingdoms period (4th to 7th century). Buddhism was the dominant religious and cultural influence during the Shilla (668-935) and Koryo (918-1392) dynasties. Confucianism was also brought to Korea from China in early centuries, but it occupied a subordinate position until the establishment of the Choson Dynasty and the persecution of Buddhism carried out by the early Choson Dynasty kings.
Buddhism is stronger in the more traditional east of the country, namely the Yeongnam and Gangwon regions, where it accounts for more than half of the religious population. There are a number of different “schools” in Korean Buddhism, including the Seon; however, the overwhelming majority (around 90%) of Buddhist temples is part of the Jogye Order. Many adherents of Buddhism combine Buddhist practice and shamanism.
Buddhism in South Korea is dominated by the Jogye Order, a syncretic sect traditionally linked to the Seon tradition. Most of the country’s old and famous temples, such as Bulguksa and Beomeosa, are operated by the Jogye Order, which is headquartered at Jogyesa in central Seoul. Other Buddhist traditions in South Korea include the “Taego” and “Cheontae” lineages. Taego is a form of Seon (Zen), while the Choentae is a modern revival of the T’ien T’ai lineage in Korea, focusing on the Lotus Sutra. Another lineage, the Jingak, is a form of Vajrayana Buddhism. Both the Jogye and Cheontae orders require their monastics to be celibate, while the Taego and Jingak orders allow for married priests. There are many other small orders in South Korea as yet unknown in the West.
Christianity
Roman Catholic missionaries did not arrive in Korea until 1794, a decade after the return of the first baptised Korean from a visit to Beijing. However, the writings of the Jesuit missionary, Matteo Ricci, who was resident at the imperial court in Beijing, had been brought to Korea from China in the 17th century. It appears that scholars of the Sirhak, or practical learning, school were interested in these writings. Largely because converts refused to perform Confucian ancestor rites, the government prohibited the proselytism of Christianity. Some Catholics were executed during the early 19th century, but the anti-Christian law was not strictly enforced. By the 1860s, there were some 17,500 Roman Catholics in the country. There followed a more rigorous persecution, in which thousands of Christians died, which continued until 1884.
Protestant missionaries entered Korea during the 1880s and, along with Catholic priests, converted a remarkable number of Koreans. Methodist and Presbyterian missionaries were especially successful. They established schools, universities, hospitals, and orphanages and played a significant role in the modernization of the country. During the Japanese colonial occupation, Christians were in the front ranks of the struggle for independence. Factors contributing to the growth of Protestantism included the degenerate state of Korean Buddhism, the efforts made by educated Christians to reconcile Christian and Confucian values (the latter being viewed as purely a social ethic rather than a religion), the encouragement of self-support and self-government among members of the Korean church, and the identification of Christianity with Korean nationalism.
A large number of Christians lived in the northern part of the peninsula where Confucian influence was not as strong as in the south. Before 1948 Pyongyang was an important Christian centre: one-sixth of their populations of about 300,000 people were converts. Following the establishment of a communist regime in the north, however, most Christians had to flee to South Korea or face persecution.
The profusion of church steeples in most South Korean cities has often attracted attention. Christianity, which initially got a foothold in Korea in the late 18th century, grew exponentially in the 1970s and 1980s, and despite slower growth in the 1990s, caught up to and then surpassed Buddhism in the number of adherents. Christians are especially strong in the west of the country including Seoul, Gyeonggi and Honam regions. Seoul is home to Yoido Full Gospel Church, the largest single church in the world.
The Christian faith in South Korea is heavily dominated by four denominations: Roman Catholics, Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists. Some non-denominational churches also exist.
The traditional peace churches have not gained a strong foothold on the peninsula. Quaker thought briefly attracted a national following in the late 20th century, thanks to the leadership of Ham Seok-heon. However, after Ham’s death, interest in the Quakers (Religious Society of Friends) withered, and now only one Quaker meeting is active nationwide. The state of Unitarianism is similar.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a temple located in Seoul
Yoido Full Gospel Church, Seoul, South Korea
For the Joyful Church in Pohang, South Korea
Suwon Jeil Church, Suwon, South Korea
Sarang Church
Presbyterian Church in South Korea
Young‑nak‑megachurch
Jeondong Catholic Church
Confucianism
Only 0.2% of contemporary South Koreans give “Confucianism” as their religion. However, the influence of Confucian ethical thought on other religious practices, and on Korean culture in general, remains ubiquitous and pervasive.
Confucian rituals are still practiced at various times of the year. The most prominent of these are the annual rites held at the Shrine of Confucius in Seoul. Other rites, for instance those in honour of clan founders, are held at the numerous shrines found throughout the country.
Islam
The number of Muslims in South Korea is estimated at about 40,000 mainly consisting of people who converted during the Korean War and their descendants and not including migrant workers from South and Southeast Asia. The largest mosque is the Seoul Central Mosque in the Itaewon district of Seoul; smaller mosques can be found in most of the country’s major cities.
In addition to native Korean Muslims, there are some 100,000 foreign workers from Muslim countries,particularly Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Seoul Central Mosque
Hinduism
Hinduism is practised by South Korea’s small Indian and Nepali community. However, Hindu traditions such as yoga and Vedantic thought have attracted interest among younger South Koreans. There are two Hindu temples in the Seoul region, the Sri Radha Shyamasundar Mandir and the Sri Radha Krishna temple, located on Seoul’s outskirts, approximately 2 hours from the city centre. South Korea is home to a small number of migrants, including students and engineers, from countries such as India and Nepal many of whom are Hindu.
Judaism
The Jewish presence in South Korea effectively began with the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. At this time a large number of Jewish soldiers, including the chaplain Chaim Potok, came to the Korean peninsula. Today the Jewish community is very small and limited to the Seoul metropolitan area. There have been very few Korean converts to Judaism.
Romantic, Scenic and Historic Places in the Republic of Korea
Hotels
Banyan Tree Club & Spa – Seoul
This luxury hotel is located in Seoul (Chung-Gu), close to National Theater of Korea, Dongdaemun Market, and N Seoul Tower. Also nearby are Namsan Park and War Memorial of Korea.
In addition to 3 restaurants, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul features a health club. Other amenities include a full-service spa and a swim-up bar.
LCD televisions come with cable channels. Guestrooms also feature washers/dryers, complimentary wireless Internet access, and complimentary high-speed (wired) Internet access.
Gangnam Artnouveau City – Seoul
This luxury hotel is located in Seoul (Gangnam), close to Seoul Arts Center, COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, and Seolleung Park. Local attractions also include COEX Mall and Jamsil Baseball Stadium.
In addition to a restaurant, Gangnam Artnouveau City features a health club. Other amenities include a conference centre and a bar/lounge.
In addition to kitchens and washers/dryers, guestrooms feature microwaves along with refrigerators and complimentary wireless Internet access.
Hotel Elleinn – Seoul
This romantic hotel is located in Seoul (Mapo-gu), close to War Memorial of Korea, National Museum of Korea, and N Seoul Tower. Also nearby are Namsan Park and Deoksugung Palace.
In addition to a restaurant, Hotel Elleinn features a business centre. Other amenities include free parking and dry cleaning/laundry services.
Guestrooms have complimentary wireless Internet access, air conditioning, and safes; rooms also include minibars and desks.
Imperial Palace Hotel – Seoul
Located in the heart of Kangnam business and entertainment district, the European-style Imperial Palace is approximately a ten-minute ride from Korea World Trade Centre, Olympic Stadium, Express Bus Terminal, and Youngdong Shopping District. Subway Station Line 7 is a five-minute walk. An indoor golf course is located in an adjacent building with wide open spaces, simulating outdoor golf all year round. The hotel’s new concept of sauna is displayed in various facilities such as Hinoki Bath, Fountain Bath, Waterfall Bath, Event Bath, Finnish Dock, and Oriental Dock.
Other on-site recreational facilities include a large, temperature-regulated indoor pool and hot tub; squash court; aerobics studio; and a health club. Extensive on-site dining consists of Toledo (a Spanish-style cafe), Buffalo (steakhouse), Nara (Japanese), SooChooon (various types of Chinese cuisine), Maestro (pub with live music), Familia (buffet restaurant), Bel Ami (karaoke), and Amador (bakery). Room service is available 24 hours a day. All the guestrooms are equipped with automatic thermostat/humidifier, international automatic call, VMS, hair-dryer, razor, and satellite broadcasting channels. Non-smoking floors are available.
Park Hyatt Seoul
In the centre of Gangnam, Seoul’s financial and business district, the luxury hotel is across from the COEX Convention and Exhibition Centtr and 3 km (1.5 mi) from the Chungdam-Dong shopping district.
Rising 24 stories with panoramic views, the modern Park Hyatt Seoul features a full-service spa, indoor pool, and 24-hour fitness centre on the top floors and offers 4 restaurants and a ballroom.
Modern guestrooms at the Park Hyatt feature floor-to-ceiling windows with skyline views, platform beds with Egyptian cotton linens, and granite bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and separate showers.
The Ritz-Carlton – Seoul
The Ritz-Carlton, Seoul is located in the central Gangnam area and is 3 km (1.8 mile) from Apkujung Rodeo Drive and COEX: Korean Exhibition Centre, and 5 km (3 miles) from Han River Cruises.
This contemporary hotel features an indoor swimming pool, spa services, nightclub, fitness centre, and concierge services.
Guestrooms at The Ritz-Carlton Seoul feature premium bedding, high-speed Internet access, LCD TVs, in-room safes, complimentary newspapers, and complimentary overnight shoeshine.
The Westin Chosun – Seoul
In The Heart of Seoul’s Business District and with Walking Distance of Financial Institutions, embassies And Government Offices, the Westin Chosun is a World-Class Heaven of Luxury for the Business Elite and Romantic lovers as well. This 5 star Hotel Has the Largest Rooms in Seoul, all Recently Magnificently Refurbished. Recognized For Facilities And Services Catering To International Executives, The Westin Chosun Was Named One Of The Top Five Hotels In Korea By Business Traveller In 2003. The hotel is the only Korean hotel listed in Conde Nast Traveler’s Prestigious 2004 Gold List of World’s Best Hotels. The Westin Chosun’s World-class Facilities Include the City Athletic Club, a Business Centre, sophisticated Conference Rooms and Banqueting Services. The 8 Hotel Restaurants Play A Central Role In Seoul’s Business And Social Worlds.
Yeoksam Artnouveau City – Seoul
This luxury hotel is located in Seoul (Gangnam), close to Seolleung Park, COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, and Bongeunsa. Also nearby are COEX Mall and Jamsil Baseball Stadium.
In addition to a restaurant, YeoksamArtnouveau City features a fitness facility. Other amenities include a bar/lounge and a concierge desk.
LCD televisions include premium satellite channels. Guestrooms also feature kitchens and bathrooms with showers and makeup/shaving mirrors.
Paradise Hotel And Casino – Busan
In Busan you can mix business and pleasure at the Paradise Hotel and Casino Busan. A Five Star establishment that combines the best of both worlds, The Paradise is renowned for its 512 luxurious rooms and its superb auxiliary facilities that include a duty free shopping center, a luxurious shopping mall and exclusive world class casino. It is the only hotel in Haeundae with ocean front balconies, hot spring spa, luxurious shopping mall and casino. It has 7 restaurants with a chef or origin.
Pullman Ambassador – Changwon
The new Pullman Ambassador Changwon City is all about variety. The hotel features 321 beautiful rooms in 10 different styles and each stay yields a new experience and fresh atmosphere. Perfectly positioned in the central business district of Changwon City, the hotel neighbours a mega shopping mall with Changwon Exhibition and Convention Centre located next door. Pullman Ambassador Changwon City is also within close proximity of the international airport, with public transport close by.
The stylish Pullman Ambassador Changwon City 7 is the only international chain hotel in Changwon. A gallery hotel exhibiting notable artwork, the theme of this Changwon hotel changes annually. The variety of room options at the Pullman in Changwon features the work of 10 different designers. Large LCD TVs feature in each room along with a separate rain shower, while some offer complimentary laptop and WiFi use.
The Shilla Jeju
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Shilla Jeju enjoys one of the most spectacular settings on the stunning island of Jeju. The Shilla Jeju is set in its own private 21-acre cliff-top gardens at the centre of the comprehensive Jungmun Resort Complex on the South coast of Jeju lsland. Since the opening in 1990, as Korea’s first 5 star resorts, The Shilla Jeju has been the most prestigious venue in the Jungmun Resort Complex.
The Shilla Jeju resort, the premier destination in Jeju, is at the forefront of a new tourism and conference era, attracting world-class conferences and becoming the address for thousands of VIPs. As a world class resort, the service focuses on satisfying guests beyond their expectations.
Beaches
Gwangalli Beach – Busan
Gwangalli Beachis a beach in Busan, South Korea. It is located at Gwangan, Suyeong-gu, Busan Metropolitan City, and west of Haeundae Beach. It sits inside a cove spanned by the Gwangan Bridge and covers 82,000 square meters over a length of 1.4km and a width of 25 to 110 metres, in a curved in a half-moon shape with fine sand. Adjacent are alleys with restaurants, coffee shops and nightclubs.
Haeundae Beach – Busan
Haeundae Beach in Haeundae-gu is located at the southeast end of the city of Busan. Haeundae beach is only 40 minutes away from Busan’s main railroad station (in the Downtown area), and less than one hour from Gimhae International Airport. Along the 12 km of coastline is Busan’s most popular beach, and with Seogwipo’s, it is one of the most famous beaches in South Korea. Because of its easy access from downtown Busan and the famous beach atmosphere, the beach is busy year round with several kinds of beach festivals and visitors from in and out from the country.
Gyeongpo Beach – Gangneug
Gyeongpo Beach is located near to Gangneung town in Gangwon-do province. It is the largest beach on the east coast and is visited by tourists throughout the year.
Next to the beach is the large serene Gyeongpoho Lake, which was created when a large sandbank formed, separating it from the ocean. Gyeongpo beach is covered with fine, clean sand, which is of such a high quality that many visitors take a “sand bath” by completely covering their bodies with sand.
The beach is surrounded by thick pine forests, and the Gyeongpodae Terrace, which is a famous spot for viewing the sunrise and moonrise, is only a kilometre away from the beach.
Eurwangni Beach – Inchon
Eurwangni Beach is a favourite summer getaway for many Koreans, thanks to its beautiful natural surroundings and extensive accommodation options. Its close proximity to Seoul and Inchon makes it good for a day trip.
The beach is lined with pine trees and has beautiful rocks and stones on either side end. Visitors can walk from end to end of the 200 meter-long white sand beach. The west coast is particularly famous for its breathtaking sunsets, so an evening stroll along the beach is highly recommended. The beach has many shells in its white sand, which children enjoy collecting, but visitors should be careful when walking barefoot. Enjoyable activities include renting a boat and taking a sail out on the water or fishing from the rocks along the edge of the seashore.
Jungmun Beach – Jeju
Jungmun beach is located in Jeju Jungmun Resort, which has been chosen as one of Korea’s must-visit tourist destinations. Its sandy beach is curved like a bow. The beach’s sand, which is called Jinmosal, is very unusual, it is black, white, red, and is an arresting sight set against the dramatic black rocks of Jeju Island.
Jungmun Beach has clean water and a powerful current, which is perfect for those who enjoy water sports such as jet skiing and windsurfing. To the right of the beach, you can see a natural cave and a cliff covered with various rare plants, which is a great example of the beautiful ecosystem of Jeju Island. The island’s subtropical plants create exotic scenery and consequently many movies, television dramas and commercials are filmed here. It is considered the perfect destination for a romantic holiday.
Naksan Beach – Yangyang
The other famous beach on the East coast is Naksan beach, which is located near to Yangyang town in Gangwon-do province. The beach is very picturesque, dazzling white sand is set against thick pine groves and the seawater is clear and deep. This beach is famous for its beautiful sunrises.
In the evening the view is equally beautiful as the sea and the sky glow golden in the setting sun. Naksan Beach is also popular because of its close proximity to the famous Mt. Seoraksan National Park and Uisangdae Pavilion, where the view of the sunrise is stunning. A sunrise celebration is held at the beach on January 1st every year, and many people visit the beach to make wishes for the New Year.
Salaries in South Korea
Average annual income in South Korea is around 41,403,775 KRW (36,500 USD), according to 2011/2012 salary survey.
Average salary according to all entries of the survey for South Korea is 63,848,564 KRW. The most frequent education in South Korea is generally Bachelors degree, followed by Masters degree and Some College degree. According to the survey, big percent responses from high educated people, results with higher average salary in comparison to entire population statistics. This basically means that for a worker to earn a considerable higher salary, he/she must have a basic education qualification of either a Bachelor or a Master Degree.
Average Salaries by Education
| Education | Salary Entries | Average Gross Salary | Gross (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less Than High School | 3 | 12,200,000 KRW | $10,755 |
| High School | 14 | 33,965,000 KRW | $29,942 |
| Some College | 7 | 41,333,790 KRW | $36,438 |
| Bachelors Degree | 128 | 65,814,217 KRW | $58,019 |
| Masters Degree | 60 | 72,776,010 KRW | $64,157 |
| Doctorate Degree | 13 | 59,515,384 KRW | $52,467 |
Average salaries by Sector of the Economy
| Sector | Entries | Gross (USD) | Average Gross Salary | Average Net Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accounting and Administration | 13 | $92,028 | 104,392,307 KRW | 89,615,384 KRW |
| Management & Business | 28 | $82,952 | 94,097,020 KRW | 73,350,356 KRW |
| Finance & Banking | 11 | $79,501 | 90,181,818 KRW | 74,909,090 KRW |
| Hotels & Tourism | 5 | $70,615 | 80,102,000 KRW | 65,520,160 KRW |
| Marketing, Sales, Purchase | 18 | $54,424 | 61,735,791 KRW | 51,064,074 KRW |
| IT & Telecommunication II | 8 | $53,919 | 61,162,500 KRW | 47,175,000 KRW |
| IT & Telecommunication I | 13 | $47,145 | 53,479,473 KRW | 46,210,242 KRW |
| Engineers & Technicians I | 20 | $46,469 | 52,711,858 KRW | 43,933,500 KRW |
| Education & University | 16 | $36,186 | 41,047,875 KRW | 34,850,875 KRW |
| Manufacturing & Labour Workers | 8 | $25,069 | 28,437,000 KRW | 23,196,750 KRW |
South Korea’s economy ranks 15th in the world by it’s nominal GDP, and by PPP ranks 12th.
The mayor industries in South Korea are ship building, automobile, and electronics industry. The country is the first producer of ships in the world, including production of oil supertankers. It shares more than 50% of the global shipbuilding industry. South Korea is one of the largest automobile producers in the world. The largest auto-maker is Hyundai KIA Automotive Group.
The largest companies in South Korea
- Samsung Electronics (Electronics)
- Korea Electric Power (Utilities)
- Hyundai Motor (Automotive)
- Posco (Materials)
- Kookmin Bank (Banking)
- SK Corp (Oil & gas operations)
- LG Electronics (Consumer durables)
- Shinhan Financial (Banking)
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