Who / What
Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea, officially designated as Seoul Special Metropolitan City. It is also the largest city on the Korean Peninsula.
Background & History
Seoul has a long history dating back over two thousand years, becoming the capital of the Joseon Dynasty in 1394. The city has been a central political, economic, and cultural hub throughout Korean history. It was nearly destroyed during the Korean War but underwent rapid reconstruction and modernization in the latter half of the 20th century.
Why Notable
Seoul is notable as the heart of South Korea's economy and governance, hosting more than half of the country's population within its metropolitan area. The Seoul Metropolitan Area is the world's sixth largest metropolitan economy. The city is a global center for technology, culture, and finance, home to major corporations like Samsung and Hyundai.
In the News
Seoul's population has been gradually decreasing since 2014, standing at about 9.6 million residents as of 2024 after previously exceeding 10 million. The city continues to play a crucial role in global economic rankings, with its metropolitan area remaining among the world's largest economies.
