The Korean Peninsula extends southward from the northeastern part of the Asian continent between latitudes from 33 to 43 degrees north, and longitudes from 124 to 131 degrees East, The standard meridian of the peninsula is 135 degrees, 9 hours ahead of GMT. The Amnok and Tuman Rivers border both China and Russia to the north and Japan lies just across the East Sea.

Koreans, like many other Asian peoples, are descendants of Mongolian Tungus stock. However, they differ from their neighbors, the Japanese and Chinese, in that they are a homogeneous ethnic group with their own language, culture, and customs. Korean people are characterized by their generosity, warmth, and kindness, and are renowned as one of the hardest working peoples in the word. For further information, please visit at http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto.

The Korean language is classified as a Ural-Altaic language, a group which also includes Mongolian, Hungarian, and Finnish. The Korean character system, Hangeul, is completely different from Japanese. “Hangeul” was developed by a group of scholars under the patronage of King Sejong in 1443 of the Joseon Dynasty.

Korea lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct seasons, In late March or early April, the trees burst into leafy splendor to mark the beginning of spring. Mostly sunny days can be expected from March to May. During the relatively hot and rainy summer season, the vegetation is lush. By June, the average temperature is over 20℃ (68℉).

Monsoon rains usually begin around the end of June and last until mid-to late-July. August is hot and humid. The coming of autumn in late September brings continental winds and clear, dry weather, making the fall months perhaps the most pleasant time of year. October’s vivid golds and vibrant reds create a colorful panorama.

December to February is cold and dry with occasional snow. During the winter months, three or four days of cold weather are often followed by a few warmer days.

The electricity supply commonly used in Korea is the 220-volt 60Hz system. Because most newly built hotels and houses have the 220-volt wiring installed, you are advised to check your electronic equipment beforehand.

The Korean local currency is the Won. Under the floating exchange rate system, one US dollar is 1,338 KRW as of March 26, 2009. Major foreign currencies that can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and the airport include the US Dollar, Japanese Yen, Euro, and UK Sterling. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major international credit cards including Visa, American Express, Diners Club, Master Card, and JCB. Foreign-issued ATM cards may have limited use.

Travelers who carry internationally recognized credit cards can get a cash advance in Korea Won from Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) installed at airports, major hotels, department stores, subway stations and tourist attractions. ATMs are in operation 24 hours a day. Most large stores, hotels and restaurants in Korea accept major international credit cards. However it is advisable to carry some cash, since many smaller establishments and stores are unlikely to accept credit cards..

The Korean local time is 9 hours ahead of GMT with no daylight savings time.

You may rent a cell phone at the Incheon International Airport. Users can rent a handset and pay rental and call charges upon returning the phone. Applicants require identification, credit card, and a service contract (available at the booth).

Roaming Center booths are conveniently located on the 1st floor of the Incheon International Airport, Tel : +82-1599-2011 (SK Telecoms Rent a Phone Service), +82-32-743-4009 (KT Phone Rental & Roaming Service)

International dialing code in Korea is 001, 002, 005, 008 and country code is 82. Please omit