In my opinion, the problem lies in the fact that both the governments of North and South Korea don’t want to be the first to give in to the pressure put on them by the other. If one North Korea gives into the pressure and reunites with the South, this will invalidate all the threats and aggressive gestures it cast on the South. Kim Jung Il will look like a fool, and nobody wants to be in a position like that.

During the early years of Korea’s economic rise, the government paid little or no attention to the environment. The economic development started in the 70’s with Korea’s five year economic development plan. Korea became a leading steelmaker and shipbuilder. This created rapid industrialization and Korea started pumping out more and more products. Cars, computers and other products were flowing out of Korea’s factories and with it millions of tons of sulfur dioxide. Consequently, acid rain started to fall over Korea and started to dissolve it’s delicate ecosystem. Although some of the air pollution is generated by Korea, a large percentage also comes from the worlds’ largest greenhouse gas producer; China. The pollution is blown from China with the wind currents toward Korea. The problem has grown so bad that plants that only grow in heavily polluted areas have begun to sprout up in Seoul. Recently, the Capital city of Seoul is starting to take steps toward a cleaner, greener future, but many companies lack the technology to install desulferizing filters and reduce greenhouse gases. The Korean factories are trying to gain access to these technologies, but this takes time and progress is slow.

South Korean Deforestation

During the Korean war and the Japanese colonization, Korea’s forest was shattered. However, during the 70’s and 80’s the people of South Korea came together and started one of the best executed reforestation efforts in the world. This effort was started to provide a steady domestic supply of timber and for the growing agricultural industry. But South Korea has changed. More than half of its population lives in cities, and these cities are growing rapidly. Together with the exponentially growing agricultural industry, the forest is being pushed further and further back. In fact, South Korea lost 12.8% of forest between 1990 and 2005. The future of this issue is uncertain, but the future looks positive for this issue because of new public awareness programs.

            On behalf of the South Korean people I extend my warmest regards. As you may know, South Korea is a small nation in East Asia. It covers just under one hundred thousand square kilometers and is surrounded by numerous islands. It is located in between China and Japan, and their influence on Korea is very prominent.  To the west of Korea, lies the Yellow Sea and on the opposite side lies the East Sea. These bodies of water are a vital part of Korean culture and are a beautiful element of Korea’s landscape.

            Korea’s population is around 44 million people, about half of the Philippine population. The capital city is Seoul and it is also the economic center of the country. The national currency is the Won. Won is distributed in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 Won. The greater the value represented by the bill, the larger it gets. The bills are decorated with important people in Korean history, landmarks, and  historical events. Korean coins are valued between 1 and 500 won. There is a literacy rate of over 90 percent, and an average life expectance of 65. The average income is $10 000 to $20 000.

            Korea has stunningly beautiful landscapes and environments that range from the high peaks of Seorksan Mountain that glow in the sun, to the river valleys below it that reflect it’s image and create a surreal environment. To the north of the country, in the area between North and South Korea, lies one of the best wildlife reserves where nature is untouched and animals and plants grow without human intervention. The Taebaek and Sobeak mountains also add to the beauty of the country. Like the Philippines, Korea’s coast is dotted with islands and the most beautiful of which is the island of Jeju. It is a pristine location with a blanket of bright yellow flowers stretching for miles and contrasted by the tall mountain of Hallasan. This island is famous for the Haenyo; female divers that collect seaweed, clams and other sea foods. They free dive into the ocean and sell their collected goods to make a living.

            Korea’s culture is very unique and is a combination of Chinese and Japanese cultures, with a little bit of local influence as well. This shows in many areas, one of which is religion. The many influences brought Shamanism, Buddhism, Islam, Catholicism, Confucianism, Protestantism and other minor religions to the country. The Korean language consists of a mix of Chinese and Japanese languages and older Korean dialects. Like Japanese and Chinese, It uses characters and not letters. The Korean language is different from the languages of its neighbors on many ways, but it also incorporates many Chinese and Japanese Characters. Like Koreas language, the food has been shaped by Chinese and Japanese culture. The food is characterized by spicy and rich flavors. Kimchi, one of the nations most famous foods, is also one of the healthiest in the world. The staple food in Korea, like the Philippines, is white rice. The national costume of Korea is called Hanbok and is vividly colored. This is one of the brightest national costumes in the world. It is used during ceremonies and festivals and for select formal occasions. Now, western clothing is widely used and it is not uncommon for couples to wear western clothing during their wedding. Korea is also famous for Tae Kwan Do. This martial art has spread throughout the world and is now an Olympic sport.

            The Government of South Korea is a democratic government and the country is officially known as the Republic of Korea. The Korean government’s history, similar to Korean culture, is also very rich. It has risen from the ruins of war and created one of the most economically successful countries in the world. The president is elected every five years. The current president is Myung Park Lee and he was elected mid last year. The South Korean government is striving to build ties with other nations and make South Korea a more global nation. The government is pushing for an end to the tension with North Korea and the recent summits paint a very promising picture for the future of the two nations. The government is also pushing economic development and this is showing to the world what Korea can do.

            South Korea is home to magnificent landscapes and beautiful flora and fauna. It has its own rich culture, food, and traditions. It has evolved into a great nation after historical struggles, and with a new and confident government, it is its sights on and even brighter and more successful future.

Jong-Ki Hong

Korean Ambassador to the Philippines