25 Fun & Educational Facts About Korea + Free Colouring Sheet!

Korea is a country in East Asia with a rich history and culture, known for its traditional clothing, food, music, and art. It has unique customs and celebrations that reflect both ancient heritage and modern influences.

We’ve put together 25 fun facts about Korea that will spark curiosity and might even inspire a future family trip!

Scroll down to grab your free printable coloring sheet - made especially for parents, caregivers, and educators. It’s a fun and engaging way for kids to:

• Explore cultural symbols

• Practice motor skills through coloring

• Learn shapes, colors, and a little bit of Asian culture too!

1. The capital city of South Korea is Seoul . It is the largest city in the country and is known for its modern skyscrapers, bustling streets, and vibrant culture. Seoul is home to many historical and cultural landmarks, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Namsan Tower, and the Seoul Museum of Art.
2. The national flag of South Korea, also known as the “ Taegukgi ,” features a red and blue circle on a white background. The circle is divided into two halves, with a red half on the left and a blue half on the right. The colors red and blue are considered traditional Korean colors and are believed to represent the balance and harmony of the universe. The white background symbolizes purity and innocence.
3. The national animal of South Korea is the tiger, also known as the Amur tiger. It is a large, powerful animal with distinctive orange and black fur. In Korean culture, the tiger is seen as a symbol of strength, courage, and good luck.
4. Mount Baekdu, also known as Mount Changbai in China, is the tallest mountain in South Korea. It is a stratovolcano located on the border between North Korea and China. The mountain stands at an elevation of 2,744 meters (9,003 feet) and is the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula.
5. The longest river in South Korea is the Nakdong River, which flows through the country from east to west. It is approximately 514 kilometers (319 miles) and is the fifth-longest river on the Korean Peninsula.
6. The national bird of South Korea is the magpie. The magpie is a medium-sized bird with distinctive black and white plumage. They can be found in various habitats, including forests, gardens, and parks. It is an omnivorous bird, feeding various insects, fruits, and seeds. In Korean culture, the magpie is seen as a symbol of good luck and happiness.
7. The national flower of South Korea is the mugunghwa, often known as the rose of Sharon or the hibiscus syriacus. It has beautiful, large, and showy flowers. The mugunghwa blooms in late summer and early fall, and its flowers can be found in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, and purple.
8. The national fruit of South Korea is the Korean pear, also known as the nashi pear or the Asian pear. It is a type of pear that is native to the Korean Peninsula and is known for its sweet, juicy, and crisp flesh. It is often eaten fresh and is also used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves.
9. The national tree of South Korea is the Korean Pine. It is a tall and stately tree that can grow up to 50 meters (165 feet) in height and is known for its long, dark green needles and sturdy branches.
10. K-drama, short for Korean drama, is a popular genre of television shows and movies that originated in South Korea. K-dramas are known for their romance, drama, and comedy elements and often explore themes such as family, friendship, and love. K-dramas are popular not only in South Korea but also worldwide, with many fans in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
11. South Korean dresses, also known as hanbok, are traditional Korean garments worn on special occasions such as weddings and festivals. Hanboks are characterized by their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and flowing lines. They are typically made of lightweight fabrics, such as silk or linen, and consist of a top, pants, and a skirt or gown.
12. K-pop, short for Korean pop, is a popular genre of music that originated in South Korea. It is characterized by its catchy melodies, energetic beats, and elaborate stage performances. K-pop bands and artists often showcase a wide range of music styles, including pop, hip-hop, and electronic dance music. They often incorporate elements of traditional Korean music into their compositions.
13. The official language of South Korea is Korean, which is spoken by most of the population. It is written using the Hangul alphabet, which was created in the 15th century.
14. South Korean cuisine is known for its flavors and diverse ingredients. Some popular Korean dishes include bulgogi, grilled marinated meat, and bibimbap, a mixed rice dish with vegetables and meat.
15. Korean food is often served with a variety of side dishes called banchan, including pickled vegetables, tofu, and fish. Korean food is typically spicy, with the use of ingredients such as chili pepper and gochujang, a fermented chili paste.
16. Ramyeon is a popular dish in South Korea, consisting of thin wheat noodles in a spicy broth. It is often made with red pepper flakes, garlic, and other spices and can be served with various ingredients, such as sliced meat, vegetables, and boiled eggs. .
17. Kimchi is another popular food in South Korea, consisting of fermented vegetables such as Napa cabbage or radishes. It is often flavored with spices such as garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes and is an essential component of many Korean dishes.
18. Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination in South Korea, known for its beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, and stunning natural scenery.
19. Mount Hallasan, located on Jeju Island, is the highest mountain in South Korea, standing at an elevation of 1,950 meters (6,398 feet). It is a popular destination for hikers, with several trails leading to the summit.
20. Korean martial arts, also known as Taekwondo, is a popular sport in South Korea and worldwide. It is a discipline that combines elements of self-defense, exercise, and competition and is characterized by its emphasis on powerful kicks and punches. Taekwondo is an official Olympic sport practiced by millions of people worldwide.
21. In South Korea, it is common to greet people with a bow. This gesture is a sign of respect and is often accompanied by the phrase “Annyeong haseyo,” which means “hello” in Korean. In formal settings, it is also common to exchange business cards as a way of introducing oneself.
22. The Cherry Blossom Festival, also known as the Spring Flower Festival, is a popular event in South Korea that takes place in April each year. The festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the blooming of the cherry blossom trees, which are a symbol of renewal and beauty in Korean culture.
23. One of the most famous drinks in South Korea is soju, a clear, distilled liquor made from rice, wheat, barley, or sweet potatoes.
24. Tea is also a popular drink in South Korea, with various traditional teas, such as green tea, oolong tea, and herbal teas being widely available.
25. South Korea is home to several beautiful temples popular with tourists and locals alike. Haeinsa Temple, Bulguksa Temple, Seonamsa Temple, and other well-known temples may be found around the country.