| The Korean Peninsula extends southward from the northeast part of the Asian continent, with more than 3,000 islands dotting its shores and waters. Most of the rivers have tributaries on the north and east sides, which also are the most mountainous regions of the peninsula. The Korean climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with a striking contrast between winter and summer.
Gwangmyeong-City is located in western Kyonggi Province, about nine miles from Seoul. The city, with a population of 340,000, plays a role as a gate city for the metropolitan area. Land use regulations legally protect over 77% of the city's land, providing an environmentally friendly residential area for citizens. A limited number of heavy industry companies are located in the area as a result of these regulations. The lead station and starting point of the Kyongbu rapid-transit railroad, which will provide full service in 2010, is located in Gwangmyeong-City. The high-speed rail will connect the metropolitan area and will provide Gwangmyeong a competitive edge in development. One development project is an industrial park that will house all aspects of the music and multimedia industry.
Gwangmyeong-City is home to fantastic culture and arts. The Gwangmyeong Boy's and Girl's Choir has performed in Carnegie Hall in the United States as well as other locations abroad. The Gwangmyeong's Mother's Choir has won first prize two years consecutively in the Nanpa Music Festival. Other events held in Gwangmyeong include the Guremsan Art Festival, Ori Culture Festival and the Gwangmyeong Fine Arts Festival. The city has a large library with over eight million books and a sports complex which houses many facilities, including a gymnasium, a health club and a park greenbelt. Gwangmyeong Civil Hall provides space for cultural performances and art exhibits.
Picture of Korean folk singer Chun Mog Lee presenting the Austin Children's Museum Deputy Director Becky Jones one of four traditional Samul Nori drums.
An excellent source of information about Korea is "Background Notes: Korea" prepared by the U.S. State Department.
South Korea
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