The city of Seoul, South Korea 

Today’s Image of the Day from the European Space Agency  features Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, and its surroundings. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission on February 21, 2023.

“Situated some 50 km south of the North Korean border, the metropolitan area of Seoul appears as the grey area in the center of the image,” says ESA.

“The Han River runs through the city, and to the right of the image it can be seen partly covered by ice. It is one of the biggest rivers in the Korean peninsula. It flows westward through Seoul into the Yellow Sea, named so because of the yellowish sand that colours its water.”

“Seoul is surrounded by forested mountains, which appear brown in this wintery image. Bukhansan National Park lies just north of the city. The park is like an island, acting as a big green lung for the surrounding urban environment.”

The population of Seoul is over 9 million people, and the metropolitan area, which includes neighboring cities like Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, is one of the most populous in the world.

Seoul is a city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge technology. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, extensive history, and rapid economic development. The city’s skyline is a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, showcasing its rich heritage.

Seoul is a hub for education, with several top-ranked universities and research institutes. The city also thrives in technology and innovation – home to global companies like Samsung and LG. Street markets like Myeongdong and Insadong offer a taste of local life and traditional crafts, while districts like Gangnam are famous for their upscale shopping and entertainment.

Seoul’s green spaces, like Namsan Park and the Han River Park, provide a refuge from the urban hustle. The city’s blend of history, culture, technology, and nature makes it a unique and dynamic metropolis, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Image Credit: ESA 

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By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Editor

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