Interesting Facts about South Korea

To pass the time, I have been doing some research about South Korea. So I am going to enlighten you with some random facts about my little girls' birth country, also reffered to as "The Land of the Morning Calm."

This is the flag of South Korea. The black lines are called Trigrams and they represent harmony. The yin-yang in the center, symbolizes balance within the universe.

South Korea has a population of more than 50 million people.

More than 2/3 of S. Korea is covered by mountains and highlands.

The National Flower is the Rose of Sharon. It represents the spirit of Korea. It is known to survive in harsh environments and to spread out from it's origin. This reflects the history of Korea and her people's survival through periods of trial and suffering. The Rose of Sharon embodies Korea as an independant nation with a long history.

It blooms from summer to fall for about 100 days. It's bulb opens in the early morning and closes up in the evening. In Korean its called Mungunghwa meaning "flower with endless life."

(I have already picked one out and can't wait to plant it once I know it won't freeze, I know it's hearty and all, but Colorado weather is tricky ;) It will be a tribute to our little princess and the trials and suffering that we all will go through to get her home. Those of her Birthmom, Foster Mom and the grieving process she will endure after leaving all she has ever known. We will watch this bush grow, and look back on the path that made our family whole. (just a side note)

Isn't it georgeous!

Moving On . . .

Most South Koreans use public transportation, rather than their own cars.

Koreans are known to throughly enjoy singing. Karaoke is very popular in Korea. They have Karaoke halls called noraebang or "singing rooms."

Soccer and Baseball are their favorite sports. S. Korea was the first Asian country with a professional Soccer team.

They sleep together as a family on a mattress on the floor, similar to a Futon mattress, called a yo. It is rolled up during the day and cleared away when it's not being used. Most houses have heated floors, which makes sleeping on the floor more comfortable.

English is taught as a second language in most schools.

Well that's all the random facts that I will share today. More posts to follow . . . for tomorrow: The Culture of Korea. I know you're excited!!!