Things you don't know about Korea: Fan death

1. Fan death.  

This one is hilarious.  There is some weird superstition here in Korea that if you leave the fan on (pointed towards your face or body) while you are sleeping at night, you will die.  There are two reasons why they think this.  First, they think that the blowing air on your face makes inhalation difficult while you are sleeping.  They also believe in oxygen displacement because of the fan.  The other reason is that it causes hypothermia.  They’re both ridiculous, but people believe it.  It doesn’t help that the Korean media makes up fake stories about people dying to fans because they want people to conserve electricity.

REFERENCES: 
http://www.pri.org/stories/2014-11-04/why-every-korean-kid-knows-not-keep-fan-over-night

Things you don't know about Korea: Plastic Surgery

1. Plastic surgery is common and socially praised

While plastic surgery is a pretty common trend in this day and age, the western culture usually doesn’t deem it a very positive thing to do under normal circumstances. The ones that do end up getting their nose jobs don’t tend to brag about it to their coworkers or friends. It is quite the contrary in South Korea however. 

Koreans deem plastic surgery as a very understandable thing. Feeling the pressures of wanting that “Caucasian look” that many of them seek, Korean women will often go through multiple surgeries to attain bigger eyes, a higher nose, and a slimmer chin. After these surgeries, many of them will be praised by coworkers, family, and friends on their new appearance. Add that to the fact that the surgeries are relatively cheap and you get one of the largest markets for plastic surgery in the world.

REFERENCES:

http://www.techinsider.io/the-most-popular-plastic-surgery-in-korea-2015-10

Things you don't know about Korea: You are born at age 1

My blog entry for this time will expose to you what are things that you didn't know about Korea. Some things might be common to you but some may not. 

1. You are born at age 1

When you are born in Korea, you are immediately considered to be one year old. This means that whatever your actual age, instead your Korean age will always be one year older. Think that’s weird? It gets more bizarre. All Koreans on New Years become a year older instead of their actual birthday. So that means that if a baby is born on December 31st, they are one, then the next day they are considered 2 years old. No wonder they live to be so much older! 

REFERENCES:

https://www.dramafever.com/news/how-to-find-your-korean-age/%7B%5B%7Bnotification.object.url%7D%5D%7D

Interesting Place to visit in Korea: Shopping Centre

As a tourist, it means nothing if you don't go to the shopping centre and buy some stuffs to be brought back to your homeland. As a woman also, wouldn't you feel excited to amuse and spoilt yourselves with some incredible things? Of course, you will. Men also won't be missed. Let's check out what are some of the interesting shopping centre that can be found in Korea. 

If you are a fanatic fan of Korea, you probably already aware of Dongdaemun being the most popular shopping centre in Korea.

1. Dongdaemun 

The Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is one of Korea’s most well-known markets. It was founded in December of 1970 as the largest of its kind in Asia and has maintained that status for the last 40 years. Browsing the plethora of shops, you can find fabric and clothing for all the latest global fashion trends. The Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is now now also building up its reputation as a hub of international design. 


2. Times Square 

Opened in 2009, Times Square is one of the largest malls in Korea.

This mega, multi-purpose mall has a hotel, a cinema, department stores, and hundreds of other shops in one complex.  There are nice founains and gardens, and a glass-foor leisure space that stretches up 5 stories.  

In addition to the general “shopping mall stores,” there is also a Shinsegae Department Store, a Courtyard by Marriott hotel, banquet center, game center, coffee shops, E-Mart, and more in this area.  Even pubs! This mall also has plenty of food options from Korean to many international cuisines.  This place is so big that you will get lost, but that’s okay because you can stay here for an entire day. 

3. Mecenatpolis

Last but not least is Mecenatpolis Mall, and it’s a personal favorite.  This mall is more of a hidden gem than anything, which is why I added it to this list.  It’s adjacent to Hapjeong station, but it’s tucked under a sizeable apartment complex making it hard to find.  

The mall isn’t large by any means, but it has an impressive display of flowers, fountains gardens and art projects.   There are some fantastic food options and a nice selection of stores to roam around.  

It’s possible to get off at Hapjeong station and not realize that this mall exists, which makes it that much more prestigious! 

Other than this, Korea also has several incredible underground shopping malls to be visited.

1. Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping Centre

Gangnam has recently become quite popular among international travelers, and the new underground shopping mall is where affordability meets quality.

Gangnam Station, on Line 2 of Seoul Subway, boasts the greatest concentration of clothing, cosmetics, and telecommunications stores, making it easy for shoppers to do price comparisons before making purchases. Also, the Sinbundang Line Underground Shopping Center, which is attached to Gangnam Station, features low- to mid-priced brands and franchised coffee shops spread out over a large area, offering one of the most convenient and comfortable underground shopping experiences. For those who are determined to do a big shopping spree, try walking through Gangnam Underground Shopping Mall all the way to Sinnonhyeon Station, and exiting out on to Gangnam-daero Road.  The much-loved Gangnam-daero Road is known for its sprawling shopping district.

2. Coex Mall

COEX Mall recently went through a huge renovation and reopened with the theme ‘unfolding sky,’ featuring a wide open space and bright lighting that flatters the many brand stores located in the mall.

A movie theater, aquarium, duty-free shops, casino, Seoul InterContinental Hotel, and department stores are all delightfully connected to the underground mall, making it possible to enjoy shopping and cultural experiences without leaving the building. Famous restaurants and trendy dessert cafés, along with character pop-up stores and kid’s cafés provide a fun day for all generations.

3. Jamsil Underground Shopping Center

Another shopping center in the heart of Seoul is located at Jamsil. This underground shopping mall is rather small in scale, yet the 135 stores housed here offer sufficient options for shoppers. Jamsil Underground Shopping Mall is connected to Lotte World and Lotte Department Stores, offering the chance to enjoy exquisite Korean cuisine at a variety of restaurants. With the recent grand opening of Lotte World Mall, the shopping center has begun to draw in more and more traffic with each passing day.

REFERENCES:

http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=list&m=0003001005005&p=en
http://www.mydestination.com/seoul/travel-articles/723250/underground-shopping-in-seoul

Interesting Place to visit in Korea: Amusement and Theme Park

Korea is home to a large number of amusement and theme parks, and even consists of some of the world’s best attractions!

1. Everland

The largest amusement park in Korea, Everland is packed with dozens of rides and creative attractions — you’ll be spoilt for choice. It houses the country’s best zoo called Zoo Topia, and notably people’s hot favourite, the Caribbean Bay water park.

Try out the thrilling roller coaster, the Eagle Fortress, or aim for Korea’s steepest ride on the T Express. Speed lovers can also rival among themselves on the Everland Speedway.

2.  Lotte World

Lotte World is a magnificent combination of an indoor and outdoor theme park. The indoor ‘Adventure’ park consists of a great ice-skating rink, and various rides and attractions that lay around its perimeters. There are also many other shops, food and activities inside the park that are divided into themes of several countries around the globe. Be sure to snap some pictures with their unique seasonal attractions, and stop by to watch the live music performances.

Step out, and you’re in Magic Island. Get to the Gyro Drop and Gyro Swing fast for the queues travel long since nobody wants to leave Lotte World without a taste of its best rides. The Flume Ride and the Spanish Pirate Ship are great to add to your exciting thrills.

3.  Seoul land 

A more family-oriented park than the above two, Seoul Land offers a diverse assortment of rides and attractions through its various themes that make it a perfect place for families and children.

Apart from their fancy roller coasters such as Space Cruise and Magic Carpet, and even the Sky-X and Dokkaebi Wind, the park immerses visitors into its vast selection of seasonal festivals and laser shows.

Seoul Land is also host to Korea’s largest botanical garden and zoo, the Seoul Grand Park.

4. Maze Land

If you ever need a break from the roller coasters, get yourselves amazed in the world’s longest stone maze located at the Maze Land. Pun intended.

You’ll be glad to know that this unique theme park on Jeju Island has two more mazes — the wind maze and another shaped as a Jeju female diver, haenyeo.

These mazes were built on the principle of ‘samda’, a Jeju dialect term that refers to the three items found on the island that are in abundance — wind, rocks and women.

You will also get to bathe in the wonders of Mother Nature as you navigate through the mazes.

REFERENCES:

http://www.korea4expats.com/article-amusement-theme-parks.html

Interesting Place to visit in Korea : Islands

Korea is famous for its beautiful scenery and places. No matter where the place is, it seems like a picture. Splendid! There are some highlighted interesting places in Korea that can be visited.

Remember Winter Sonata? The hit Korean movie? Yes, it took place in Nami Island.

1.  Nami Island 
Namiseom Island was formed as a result of the construction of Cheongpyeong Dam. It is a half moon-shaped isle, and on it is the grave of General Nami, who led a great victory against the rebels in the 13th year of the 7th king of the Joseon Dynasty, King Sejo (reign 1455-1468). 

Namiseom Island is 63 km away from Seoul in the direction of Chuncheon, and is famous for its beautiful tree lined roads. The island is 30 minutes away from Chuncheon and an hour away from the suburbs of Seoul. Since it is not far from Seoul, many couples and families come to visit.

A special feature of Namiseom Island is that there are no telephone poles. This is because all electric wires were built underground to keep the natural feeling of the landscape. The island is 553,560 square yards with chestnut trees and poplar trees throughout. 

In the middle of the isle, there is a grass field about 316,320 square yards. It is composed of education and training facilities and camping sites. The island also has a swimming pool and water-sports facilities for motorboats and water skiing, as well as a theme park with a merry-go-round, shooting range, roller skating rink. Lodging facilities such as resort villas and bungalows are available for visitors to stay on the island.

Here is a video of Nami Island:

Next, let's discover about Jeju Island

2. Jeju Island

Jeju Island, designated as Jeju Special Autonomous Province, lies southwest of the Korean Peninsula and is the largest tourist destination in Korea. The whole island was designated as a special tourist zone, and wherever tourists go, they can look upon beautiful scenery. Every year, about 8.7 million people from Korea and abroad visit this fascinating island that measures 73 km across, east to west, and 31 km, from north to south.

Jeju Island was also designated as a World Natural Heritage. The climate of Jeju is quite different from the temperate climate of mainland Korea. Since the island has a subtropical climate as well as a subarctic one, there are many unique plants that can only to be found on this island. The unique sight of Jeju Island captivates travelers. The scenery that represents this volcanic island of Jeju was created by Hallasan Mountain and Oreum (parasitic cones in Jeju dialect) as well as the pillar-shaped joint on the beach. The piedmont area that visitors encounter on their way from the beach to Hallasan Mountain is a gift of nature and the piedmont area on the way to Geomun Oreum, where Jeju World Natural Heritage Center is located, is worthwhile to see. Another unique aspect here is the Jeju dialect and lifestyle.

Traveling the 182 km circuit road along the coastline by car, motor scooter or bike is recommended. There is a trail for walking called “Jeju Olle” for those who choose to make a round trip on foot. 

Jeju Island is implementing more discretionary and diversified policies in politics and economy as well as tourism, and this is what makes Jeju worthy of the name “free international city.” 

Last but not least is Heuksando.

3. Heuksando

Heuksando Island is located at the southern end of Korea about 92.7 km away from Mokpo. It is composed of 11 uninhabited islands and 89 inhabited islands. Because of its natural beauty, it has been designated as part of Dadohae National Marine Park along with the nearby islands. 

Heuksando Island has a circular road that can take you all the way around the island along the seashore. Following this road, you can see almost all of the beautiful natural and cultural treasures of the island. 

The Choryeongmok Tree, once designated as Natural Monument, is said to have the ability to conjur up spirits when its branch is broken and placed on a Buddhist altar. Nearby are Sangroksurim and Seonghwangdang. 

Heuksando Island are designated Cultural Treasures such as the Jiseokmyogun, Samcheungseokdeung, Samcheungseoktap, and Banwolseong. Mt. Heuksan on the island has eight especially beautiful sceneries, which are called Mt. Heuksan Eight Sceneries. Among them, Munamchangsong, Songjeonmangwol, and Myeongsasipri are especially famous. Munamchangsong refers to evergreen trees covering the sky of Mt. Munamsan, and Songjeonmangwol refers to watching the moon in front of an evergreen at harvest full moon. Myeongsasipri refers to a large white sandy beach spread out in front of Jinri Village. The Eight Sceneries of Mt. Heuksan are must-see places for those who visit the island of Heuksando.

REFERENCES:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namiseom

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeju_Province

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heuksando

Korean Basic Language: Expressing gratitude and Seek for Apology

 Expressing gratitude

When people treat you right and nicely, the least you could do is by expressing your gratitude to them. That would leave a good impression on them. Let's dig in what are some of gratitude terms you could use.

1. Thank You
gomabseubnida
고맙습니다

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBhzZ-9fynA

As a person, you couldn't avoid from making mistakes. Instead of running away from your mistakes, you should seek for apology. Be brave to commit your mistakes. 


2. I'm sorry
joesong haeyo
죄송 해요

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caG4lRY1Lug

Korean Basic Language: Be a caring person

Be a caring person

Korean people are filled with overwhelming caring person. They always take care of each other even though they might not know you. How to become a caring person using korean language? Let's figure it out. 

1. Are you okay? 

Informal: 

Gwenchana? 

괜찮아 

Formal: 

Gwenchanayo?

괜찮아요

Let's learn the pronunciation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DT3U5gXKo3Q

2. Be careful

This is standard politeness level, and should work for you in most situations. 

jo shim ha say yo.

조심하세요 

This is a formal way of speaking. 

jo shim ha ship shi o 

조심하십시오 

Let's learn the pronunciation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCPVyMNx4s8

Korean Basic Language: Ice Breaking

Ice Breaking 

When you first meet a person, what would you do? Instead of act weirdly and giving Korean people a bad impressions towards you, you should learn how to break the ice with them beforehand. Here are some languange that you should use in breaking the ice. 

This term literally means as "Are you at peace?" Shaking and bowing at the same time is a custom - be careful not to pump the hand of the person you’re meeting, just clasp hands briefly. 

1. An-nyeong-haseyo 
안녕하세요 
 (Hello)

Let's listen to the pronunciation 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAFRq1Zz-9A

As a foreigner newly arrived in the country, or on your very first meeting with someone, you can also use one of these options to greet someone.

2. Man-na-suh bangap-seum-ni-da
만나서 반갑습니다.

(Happy to meet you)

Let's listen to the pronunciation 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ducCq5-hHyw

3. Jal boo-tak deu-rim-ni-da

잘부탁드립니다 

(Please look after me)

Korean Basic Language

Language 

The Korean language is shared between both North and South Korea and is part of the Altaic language family. There are various dialects but the language is generally understood everywhere. 65 million people speak the Language, with 45 million speaking it in South Korea. The language is considered one of the best and most well planned languages in history. Hangul is the Korean name of the language. The alphabet was created by King Sejong in 1446. The alphabet is extremely easy to learn, which gives Korea one of the highest literacy rates in the World. 

There was a history about korean language on how King Se-Jong invented Hangul.

A long, long time ago a man was sitting in his room (those little traditional Korean ones ^-^) thinking to create a new language for the newly independent country.

He wanted something simple in opposition to the complexity of Hanja (Chinese characters) and the three different alphabets of Japan.

He thought and thought but couldn't come up with anything; hoping to find some consolation from the night sky, he motioned to open the window, but he heard that there was a lot of rain falling outside. He looked at the window.

In this window he saw some simple, yet powerful shapes to unify the broken Korea and get rid of illiteracy. And looking at this window, King Se-Jong invented Korean. ^-^.

The Korean language is spoken by more than 65 million people living on the peninsula and its outlying islands as well as 5.5 million Koreans living in other parts of the world.  The fact that all Koreans speak and write the same language has been a crucial factor in their strong national identity.  Modern Korea has several different dialects including the standard one used in Seoul and central areas, but they are similar enough that speakers/listeners do not have trouble understanding each other.

REFERENCES:

http://www.howtostudykorean.com/unit1/unit-1-lessons-1-8/unit-1-lesson-1/
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/south-korea-country-profile.html

Etiquette in Korea: Dress Etiquette

REFERENCES: http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_kr.htm

Dress Etiquette

1. Business attire is conservative. 
2. Men should wear dark- coloured, conservative business suits with white shirts. 
3. Women should dress conservatively and wear subdued colours. 
4. Men should avoid wearing jewellery other than a watch or a wedding ring.

Etiquette in Korea: Gift Giving Etiquette

Gift Giving Etiquette

1. Gifts express a great deal about a relationship and are always reciprocated. 
2. It is inconsiderate to give someone an expensive gift if you know that they cannot afford to reciprocate accordingly. 
3. Bring fruit or good quality chocolates or flowers if invited to a Korean's home. 
4. Gifts should be wrapped nicely. 
5. The number 4 is considered unlucky, so gifts should not be given in multiples of 4. 
6. Giving 7 of an item is considered lucky. 
7. Wrap gifts in red or yellow paper, since these are royal colours. Alternatively, use yellow or pink paper since they denote happiness. 
8. Do not wrap gifts in green, white, or black paper. 
9. Do not sign a card in red ink.
10. Use both hands when offering a gift. 
11. Gifts are not opened when received.

REFERENCES:

http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/south-korea-country-profile.html

Etiquette in Korea: Dining and Table Etiquette

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a South Korean's house: 

1. It is common for guests to meet at a common spot and travel together. 
2. You may arrive up to 30 minutes late without giving offence. 
3. Remove your shoes before entering the house. 
4. The hosts greet each guest individually. 
5. The host pours drinks for the guests in their presence. The hostess does not pour drinks. 
6. The hosts usually accompany guests to the gate or to their car because they believe that it is insulting to wish your guests farewell indoors. 
7. Send a thank you note the following day after being invited to dinner.

Table manners

1. Wait to be told where to sit. There is often a strict protocol to be followed. 
2. The eldest are served first. 
3. The oldest or most senior person is the one who starts the eating process. 
4. Never point your chopsticks. 
5. Do not pierce your food with chopsticks. 
6. Chopsticks should be returned to the table after every few bites and when you drink or stop to speak. 
7. Do not cross your chopsticks when putting them on the chopstick rest. 
8. Do not pick up food with your hands. Fruit should be speared with a toothpick. 
9. Bones and shells should be put on the table or an extra plate. 
10. Try a little bit of everything. It is acceptable to ask what something is. 
11. Refuse the first offer of second helpings. 
12. Finish everything on your plate. 
13. Indicate you are finished eating by placing your chopsticks on the chopstick rest or on the table. Never place them parallel across your rice bowl.

REFERENCES:

http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/south-korea-country-profile.html

Basic facts about Korean people

People 

A few basic facts about Korean people. They are generally known for their darker complexion and high cheek bones. As a race, they can be extremely nice as long as you treat them with respect. However, just keep in mind that some cultural differences are involved so you may consider what they do as rude but they do not mean anything personally by it, it is simply thousands of years of tradition. One example of this may be with the older Koreans. Everywhere older people are respected, but in Korea they are highly respected. Sometimes they may appear to be pushy or rude to you, but it really is nothing personal :) Just a different place. The people truly are nice and helpful. If you need help and understand little Korean, they will help you. They love when you want to learn the language and will help you with that as well.

Some Koreans may still be stubborn and independent (I mean no disrespect!). Some are still very grouped (independent, but grouped.) What I mean is it hasn't been long since Korean's came out of the whole dynasty deal. You may find a lot of generalizations about each 'dynasty', such as the Lee Dynasty, Park, Kim, etc...and most of them are true! There are distinct characteristics that hold true, so older Koreans will ask a lot of questions about family backround.

If you travel there, you may get looks and feel awkward sometimes, but this is only natural because most people there are Koreans and asians, so any other race may stand out. That is nothing personal either :) I promise! You really should go sometime and enjoy it! It will definitely be worth the visit.

REFERENCES:

http://www.learnkoreanlanguage.com/Korean-Culture.html

How many city does Korea has?

There are numerous number of city that Korea has. They have 19 cities consists of Ansan, Anyang, Bucheon, Busan, Cheongwon, Cheongju, Cheonan, Daegu, Daejeon, Goyang, Gwangju, Incheon, Jeonju, Pohang, Seongnam, Seoul, Suwon, Ulson and Yongin. 

1. Ansan

Ansan is a city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. It lies southwest of Seoul, and is part of the Seoul National Capital Area. It is connected to Seoul by rail via Seoul Subway Line 4.

2. Anyang

Anyang is a city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. With a population number of approximately 615,000, it is the 15th largest city in South Korea.

3. Bucheon

Bucheon is a city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Bucheon is a satellite city of Seoul, 25 kilometres away. This city is located between Incheon and Seoul. Manufacturing operations are located in the city.

4. Busan

Busan, a large port city in South Korea, is known for its beaches, mountains and temples. Busy Haeundae Beach has a Folk Square with traditional games such as tug-of-war, while Gwangalli Beach is a nightlife hub with views of modern Diamond Bridge. Beomeosa, a Buddhist temple built in 678 C.E., is at the base of Geumjeong Mountain, which offers challenging hikes.

5. Cheongwon 

Cheongwon County was a county in North Chungcheong Province, South Korea. It was dissolved on July 1, 2014 and annexed by Cheongju. Cheongwon was twinned with: Cangzhou, China Kikuchi, Japan.

6. Cheonan

Cheonan is a city located in the northeast corner of South Chungcheong, a province of South Korea, and is 83.6 km south of the capital, Seoul. The average temperature in the city is 12.5ᵒC, with a recorded high of 34.2ᵒC and a low of -13.4ᵒC.

7. Daegu

Daegu, formerly spelled Taegu, and officially known as the Daegu Metropolitan City, is a city in South Korea, the fourth largest after Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, and the third largest metropolitan area in the nation with over 2.5 million residents.

8. Daejeon

Daejeon is South Korea's fifth-largest metropolis. Daejeon had a population of over 1.5 million in 2010. Located in the center of South Korea, Daejeon serves as a hub of transportation and is at the crossroads of major transport routes.

9. Goyang

Goyang city is located north of Seoul, and the city can be easily accessed through Seoul Ring- Express and Jayuro Expressway within 20 minutes.

10. Gwangju

Gwangju is the sixth largest city in South Korea. It is a designated metropolitan city under the direct control of the central government's Home Minister.

11. Incheon

Incheon, a South Korean city bordering the capital of Seoul, has long been a transportation hub. The ultramodern, massive Incheon International Airport, with railway connections to Seoul, features a casino, spa and golf course. Yeonan Pier, close to the popular Incheon Fish Market, is the starting point for many boat tours. Incheon is also known for its beach-lined islands, including Yeongjong and Muui-dong.

12. Jeonju

Jeonju is a city in South Korea, and the capital of North Jeolla Province. The name, Jeonju literly means "Perfect City". It is an important tourist center famous for Korean food, historic buildings, sports activities and innovative festivals.

13. Pohang

Pohang is a city in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, and a main seaport in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk region. The built-up area of Pohang is located on the alluvium of the mouth of the Hyeongsan River.

14. Seongnam

Seongnam is the second largest city in South Korea's Gyeonggi Province after Suwon and the 10th largest city in the country. Its population is approximately one million. Seongnam is a satellite city of Seoul.

15. Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a sprawling metropolis where hyper-modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways and pop culture meet Buddhist temples, palaces and street markets. Notable attractions include futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a convention hall with curving architecture and a rooftop park; Gyeongbokgung Palace, which once had more than 7,000 rooms; and Jogyesa Temple, site of centuries-old locust and pine trees.

16. Suwon

Suwon is the capital and largest metropolis of Gyeonggi-do, South Korea's most populous province which surrounds Seoul, the national capital. Suwon lies about 30 kilometres south of Seoul. It is traditionally known as "The City of Filial Piety".

17. Ulson

Ulsan, officially the Ulsan Metropolitan City, is South Korea's seventh largest metropolis with a population of over 1.1 million. It is located in the south-east of the country, neighboring Busan to the south and facing Gyeongju to the north.

18. Cheongju

Cheongju is the capital and largest city of North Chungcheong Province in South Korea

19. Yongin

Yongin is a major city in the Seoul Capital Area, located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. With a population of nearly 1 million, the city has developed abruptly since the 21st century, recording the highest population growth of any city in the country. Yongin is home to Everland and Caribbean Bay, South Korea's most popular amusement and water parks. The city is also home to the Korean Folk Village, the largest of its kind.

references:

http://www.mapsofworld.com/south-korea/cities-map.html
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_8_2.jsp