Seoul

Seoul is the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea. Located on the Han River, Seoul forms the heart of the Seoul Capital Area, one of the world’s leading global cities with a population concentration exceeding 20 million people within an area of 605 square kilometers (234 sq mi). Ranked as an Alpha-World City, it houses major multinational conglomerates such as Samsung Electronics and LG Group along with numerous government institutions. The city also hosts over 100 higher educational institutes including prestigious universities like Yonsei University in addition to many historical sites from its centuries-long history including five UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

The earliest known records about Seoul are from 18 BC during which time period it was called Wiryeseong – this name has been retained until today. Since then, there have been several changes to its governance structures throughout Korean history; for example at one point during Joseon dynasty it was declared as “the King’s Ancient Capital” in 1394 CE. During Japanese colonial rule between 1910 – 1945 CE part of modern day Gangnam district served as Japan’s administrative hub while other areas were developed mainly by private companies under Japanese influence. After independence in 1948 CE new townships began to emerge particularly around Jongno area while some older ones were demolished or replaced due to rapid urbanization driven largely by economic expansion following industrialization efforts initiated since 1960s onward resulting into current look seen across cityscape ranging from traditional wooden hanok housing style alongside skyscrapers & high rise apartments etc..

Today Greater Metropolitan region serves not only being home for over half national population but also host various international events such G20 summit held here back 2017 & Winter Olympics 2018 both hosted inside stadiums located near Jamsil neighborhood forming so called Olympic Park complex itself spanning across 1 km long portion outside Bundang Line 4 subway station nearby Lotte Tower landmark building among others… Currently tourism industry draws millions visitors each year offering wide variety options when comes sightseeing shopping dining entertainment options too be found easily anywhere downtown core especially popular Myeondong trendsetting fashion retail streets well famous Insadong art market packed artsy things souvenirs alike… Moreover there countless museums galleries performing centres parks gardens spas temples shrines pagodas monuments cafes restaurants making great destination anyone looking experience true culture vibes up close personal level!

In conclusion therefore we can say that despite turbulent past recent decades marked remarkable progress development thus becoming first choice tourists seeking unique blend old meets new beyond compare elsewhere any other place planet earth!.