“Thousands of years of history converge here.” That’s the silent story whispered by the Han River, the lifeblood of Seoul. Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Today, we focus on \uc2e0\ubcf8\uad50 a landmark.
Seoul’s story began long before it officially became the capital in 1394. Humans inhabited this area along the Han River since the Paleolithic Age. Imagine early settlers building their lives here.
General Yi Seong-Gye, founder of the Joseon Dynasty, recognized Seoul’s strategic importance. He chose it as the capital. The location was militarily defensible and centrally located on the peninsula. The Han River provided crucial transportation routes for goods and taxes.
For almost six centuries, Seoul served as Korea’s capital. It was briefly interrupted from 1399 to 1405. During the Joseon Dynasty 1392–1910. And the period of Japanese rule 1910–45. The city was known as Hanseong and Gyeongseong, respectively.
Seoul only became the official name in 1948, with the founding of South Korea. The name Seoul itself means capital in Korean. Think about that every time you hear the city’s name.
The original city was enclosed by an 11-mile wall. It ran along the ridges of the surrounding hills. The wall protected citizens from wild animals and attacks. Today, remains of these fortifications are a popular attraction.
Seoul has seen incredible growth. From a population of 100,000 in 1429 to around 250,000 by 1910. The Japanese annexation spurred modernization and expansion. The city now stretches far beyond its original walls.
After Korea’s liberation following World War II, Seoul became the capital of the Republic of Korea. The Korean War caused widespread destruction. Yet, Seoul rose from the ashes. It became a center of reconstruction and modernization.
Since the 1970s, the Gangnam area south of the Han River has seen extensive development. It is now a major business district. Named after Teheran Street, Seoul and Tehrān became sister cities in 1977.
The city hosted the 1988 Summer Olympics and the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Seoul continues to evolve. It attracts workers from around the globe. This once isolated city now embraces diversity.
As you stand here at \uc2e0\ubcf8\uad50, remember the long and rich history of Seoul. From ancient settlements to a modern metropolis. From royal dynasties to a war-torn city rising again. Seoul stands as a testament to resilience.