History of South Korea in Timeline
South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is located in East Asia, occupying the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula. It shares a border with North Korea along the Demilitarized Zone and has maritime borders with China, Russia, and Japan. With a population exceeding 51 million, South Korea is a densely populated nation, with half its residents concentrated in the Seoul Capital Area. Major cities like Busan, Daegu, and Incheon contribute to its urban landscape.
1905: Establishment of Japanese Protectorate
After its victory in the Russo-Japanese War, Japan imposed a protectorate over Korea in 1905, further solidifying its control over the peninsula.
1905: Japan Colonizes Liancourt Rocks
In 1905, Japan forcibly colonized the Liancourt Rocks, marking the beginning of its control over the territories also known as "Dokdo" in South Korea and "Takeshima" in Japan.
1905: Baseball Arrives in Korea
Baseball was introduced to Korea in 1905, marking the beginning of its journey to becoming one of the country's most popular sports.
1910: Japanese Annexation of Korea
After establishing itself as a regional power, Japan formally annexed Korea in 1910, following a period of increasing influence and control over the Korean Empire.
1910: Japanese Annexation of Korea
Following its establishment as a protectorate, Korea was formally annexed by Japan in 1910, marking the beginning of a period of colonial rule.
1910: Annexation of Korea by Japan
In 1910, Japan annexed Korea, which led to the imposition of Japanese-style modern architecture in Korea, suppressing much of Korea's existing architectural heritage.
1919: March 1st Movement
On March 1, 1919, Korea's independence movement gained momentum with nationwide demonstrations against Japanese rule, a pivotal event commemorated annually as Korean Independence Day.
1919: March 1st Movement
The March 1st Movement of 1919 was a series of nationwide protests against Japanese rule, demanding Korean independence and self-determination.
1943: Cairo Declaration
The Cairo Declaration of 1943, issued by the Allied powers during World War II, included a provision for the future independence of Korea after the defeat of Japan.
1945: Liberation from Japanese Rule
August 15, 1945, marks a momentous day in Korean history as it celebrates the nation's liberation from Japanese rule after decades of colonial control, an event celebrated annually as Liberation Day.
1945: Adoption of "Republic of Korea" as Official English Name
Following Japan's surrender in 1945, "Republic of Korea" was adopted as the official English name for the newly independent nation.
1945: End of World War II, No Immediate Diplomatic Ties between South Korea and Japan
Following the end of World War II in 1945, there were no immediate formal diplomatic ties established between South Korea and Japan, as both nations navigated the post-war landscape.
1945: Division of Korea and Cultural Divergence
The division of the Korean peninsula in 1945 led to distinct cultural developments in South and North Korea, despite their shared traditional culture.
May 1948: Syngman Rhee Elected as First President of South Korea
In the US-occupied south, Syngman Rhee, a prominent independence activist, was elected as the first president of the newly established Republic of Korea in May 1948.
August 1948: Establishment of the Republic of Korea
Following Japan's surrender in World War II, Korea was divided. Negotiations for reunification failed, and in August 1948, the southern zone, occupied by the United States, became the Republic of Korea.
1948: Division of Korea
Despite intentions for a unified Korea, escalating Cold War tensions between the Soviet Union and the United States resulted in the division of Korea into two separate states in 1948: North Korea and South Korea.
1948: Promulgation of the First Constitution and First Direct Election
South Korea promulgated its first constitution in 1948 upon gaining independence. The constitution established a presidential system with an independent chief executive. The country also held its first direct election in the same year.
June 1950: North Korean Invasion of South Korea
On June 25, 1950, North Korean forces launched a surprise invasion of South Korea, marking the beginning of the Korean War.
1950: Start of the Korean War
In 1950, North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea, marking the beginning of the Korean War, a major conflict of the Cold War.
1950: Outbreak of the Korean War
The Korean War, a conflict that deeply divided the Korean peninsula, erupted in 1950, leading to a prolonged period of hostility and separation between North and South Korea.
1950: Korean War Begins, US Intervenes
The outbreak of the Korean War in 1950 prompted the United States to dispatch troops to the Korean Peninsula. This intervention aimed to defend South Korea against the invasion from the North and marked the beginning of a significant US military presence in the region.
1951: Liancourt Rocks Returned to Korea with Treaty of San Francisco
Despite being returned to Korea in 1951 as part of the Treaty of San Francisco, the Liancourt Rocks remain a subject of territorial dispute between South Korea and Japan, with Japan continuing to assert its claim over the islands.
1953: Armistice Agreement and Division of Korea
The 1953 armistice agreement, which ended the Korean War, resulted in the formal division of Korea along the demilitarized zone, with neither side achieving a decisive victory.
1953: End of the Korean War and Armistice Agreement
The Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice agreement, dividing the peninsula along the demilitarized zone. However, no peace treaty was signed, leaving the two Koreas technically at war.
1953: End of the Korean War
The Korean War, which began in 1950 with the North Korean invasion, lasted for three years and resulted in a stalemate and the division of the Korean peninsula. The war officially ended with an armistice agreement in 1953.
1953: End of the Korean War
The Korean War, which had ravaged the peninsula for three years, came to an end in 1953, leaving behind a legacy of division and a heavily fortified border between North and South Korea.
1955: Post-War Population Growth
In 1955, South Korea's population stood at 21.5 million. Following the Korean War and the division of the Korean Peninsula, the country experienced an influx of refugees from North Korea, contributing to its population growth.
1960: April Revolution and Fall of the First Republic
In 1960, student-led protests, known as the April Revolution, led to the overthrow of Syngman Rhee's authoritarian First Republic, ushering in a period of political instability.
1960: April Revolution
The April Revolution in 1960 was a student-led uprising in South Korea that successfully overthrew the autocratic government of Syngman Rhee, leading to a brief period of democratic experimentation.
May 1961: May 16 Coup
On May 16, 1961, General Park Chung-hee led a military coup that overthrew the Second Republic of Korea, ushering in an era of authoritarian rule under his leadership.
1961: May 16 Coup and Rise of Park Chung-hee
General Park Chung-hee seized power in a military coup on May 16, 1961, ending the short-lived Second Republic and paving the way for the authoritarian Third Republic.
1962: EU Becomes Largest Foreign Investor in South Korea
Since 1962, the European Union (EU) has maintained its position as the single largest foreign investor in South Korea, demonstrating its long-standing economic interest in the country.
1963: Establishment of the Third Republic
Park Chung-hee consolidated his power and formally established the Third Republic of Korea in 1963, marking the beginning of his 18-year rule.
1965: South Korea and Japan Sign Treaty on Basic Relations
South Korea and Japan formally established diplomatic ties by signing the Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea in 1965, a significant step towards normalizing relations after a period of historical tension.
1967: South Korea supports U.S. in Vietnam War
In 1967, South Korea fulfilled its obligations under the Mutual Defense Treaty by deploying a substantial number of combat troops to assist the United States in the Vietnam War.
1967: Seoul Hosts the Asian Basketball Championship
Seoul hosted the Asian Basketball Championship in 1967, highlighting the sport's growing popularity in South Korea and the country's capability in hosting international sporting events.
1972: Yushin Constitution
In 1972, Park Chung-hee introduced the Yushin Constitution, which granted him sweeping powers and allowed him to extend his rule indefinitely, solidifying his authoritarian grip on South Korea.
1972: October Restoration and the Fourth Republic
Park Chung-hee further consolidated his authoritarian rule with the October Restoration in 1972, establishing the Fourth Republic and granting himself sweeping powers.
1979: Assassination of Park Chung-hee
Park Chung-hee, who had ruled South Korea with an iron fist for 18 years, was assassinated in 1979, marking the end of his controversial but transformative reign.
1979: Assassination of Park Chung-hee
Park Chung-hee's 18-year rule as the president of South Korea came to an end in 1979 when he was assassinated by the director of the Korean Central Intelligence Agency, Kim Jae-gyu.
1979: Coup d'état and Expansion of Martial Law
In 1979, General Chun Doo-hwan led a coup d'état in South Korea. Following the coup, Chun expanded martial law to the entire nation, including Jejudo island, which had previously been exempt. This expansion led to the closure of universities, a ban on political activities, and further restrictions on the press.
1980: Economic growth in 1980s
Between 1980 and 1990, South Korea experienced the fastest rise in average GDP per capita in the world, contributing to the nation's economic boom known as the Miracle on the Han River.
1982: Korea Professional Baseball League is Formed
The Korea Professional Baseball league, a 10-team circuit, was established in 1982, providing a platform for professional baseball and further fueling its popularity.
1986: Seoul Hosts the Asian Games
Seoul hosted the Asian Games in 1986, marking the city's first time hosting the prestigious multi-sport event and showcasing South Korea's capabilities on the international stage.
1986: South Korea Qualifies for the World Cup
South Korea's national football team made history in 1986 by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time, marking the beginning of their consistent presence in the tournament.
1987: June Democratic Struggle and Democratic Reforms
In 1987, the death of a student due to torture by the Chun regime sparked nationwide protests known as the June Democratic Struggle. This led to the June 29 Declaration, which promised democratic reforms, including the direct election of the president.
1987: June Democratic Struggle and Establishment of the Sixth Republic
The June Democratic Struggle of 1987, a series of nationwide protests against the authoritarian rule of Chun Doo-hwan, forced the government to hold democratic elections and establish the Sixth Republic, marking a significant step towards democracy.
1987: Establishment of the Sixth Republic
The current Sixth Republic of South Korea, established in 1987, is characterized by a democratic system with a president and a unicameral legislature, the National Assembly.
1988: Post-Olympics Architectural Boom
Following the 1988 Seoul Olympics, South Korea opened its market to foreign architects, leading to a diverse range of architectural styles that attempted to blend modern design with traditional Korean philosophy.
1988: Seoul Hosts the Summer Olympics
Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics in 1988, marking a significant milestone in South Korea's history and raising the country's global profile.
1988: Seoul Olympics
South Korea hosted the Summer Olympics in Seoul in 1988. The Games were considered a success and significantly boosted South Korea's global image and economy.
1988: Olympic Sculpture Garden
The establishment of the Olympic Sculpture Garden in 1988 marked a significant event in South Korea's art scene.
1990: Economic growth in 1980s
Between 1980 and 1990, South Korea experienced the fastest rise in average GDP per capita in the world, contributing to the nation's economic boom known as the Miracle on the Han River.
1991: Admission to the United Nations
South Korea was formally invited to become a member of the United Nations in 1991.
1991: South Korea Joins the United Nations
A significant diplomatic event took place in 1991 when both North Korea and South Korea gained membership to the United Nations, marking their entry onto the global stage.
August 1992: South Korea and the People's Republic of China Re-establish Diplomatic Relations
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, South Korea and the People's Republic of China formally re-established diplomatic relations on August 24, 1992, marking a new chapter in their relationship after decades of estrangement.
1992: Early Space Exploration Efforts
Since 1992, South Korea has actively pursued space exploration, launching a total of 10 satellites. These early missions relied on foreign rockets and launch facilities, showcasing the nation's commitment to advancing its space capabilities through international collaboration.
1992: Birth of K-pop
The debut of Seo Taiji and Boys in 1992 marked a turning point for South Korean popular music, ushering in the era of K-pop, a genre that blends traditional Korean music with global influences.
1993: North Korea Conducts Missile Tests, Raising Tensions
North Korea's conducting of missile tests in 1993 marked an escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula and raised concerns about the country's military ambitions.
1993: Whitney Biennial in Seoul
The relocation of the 1993 Whitney Biennial to Seoul brought international attention to South Korean contemporary art.
1995: Seoul Hosts the Asian Basketball Championship Again
Seoul hosted the Asian Basketball Championship for the second time in 1995, demonstrating South Korea's continued support for basketball and its standing within the Asian basketball community.
1995: Gwangju Biennale and Venice Biennale
The inauguration of the Gwangju Biennale and the Korean Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in 1995 further contributed to the diversification and internationalization of South Korean art.
1996: South Korea joins OECD
In 1996, South Korea became a member of the OECD, marking its status as a developed country with a high-income economy.
1997: Election of Kim Dae-jung
Kim Dae-jung was elected president of South Korea in 1997 amidst the Asian financial crisis. He implemented economic reforms based on IMF advice, leading to a gradual recovery of the South Korean economy.
1997: South Korea Hosts the Winter Universiade
South Korea hosted the Winter Universiade in 1997, demonstrating the nation's capability in hosting international winter sporting events and promoting winter sports within the country.
1997: Asian financial crisis impact
South Korea was severely affected by the 1997 Asian financial crisis but managed a rapid recovery, subsequently tripling its GDP.
February 1998: Inauguration of Kim Dae-jung
Kim Dae-jung was inaugurated as the eighth president of South Korea in February 1998. His election was significant as he was a former political prisoner who had been sentenced to death (later commuted to exile).
1998: North Korea Conducts Further Missile Tests, Heightening Regional Concerns
Adding to existing anxieties, North Korea conducted additional missile tests in 1998, further straining relations with South Korea and the international community.
1999: Launch of Arirang-1 Satellite
In 1999, South Korea achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its Arirang-1 satellite, demonstrating the nation's growing expertise in satellite technology. This achievement was part of South Korea's space partnership with Russia, highlighting the role of international collaboration in its space program.
1999: South Korea Hosts the Asian Winter Games
South Korea hosted the Asian Winter Games in 1999, further solidifying the country's position as a hub for winter sports in Asia.
1999: Rise of Korean Cinema
The success of the film "Shiri" in 1999 marked a significant turning point for the Korean film industry, leading to its growth and recognition both domestically and internationally.
June 2000: North-South Summit
As part of President Kim Dae-jung's "Sunshine Policy," a historic inter-Korean summit took place in Pyongyang, North Korea, in June 2000.
2000: Taekwondo Debuts at the Olympics
Originating in Korea, Taekwondo, with its standardized rules, earned its place as an official Olympic sport in 2000, showcasing Korean martial arts on the global stage.
2001: Early Stages of the Korean Wave
In 2001, the Korean Wave was in its nascent stages, but its impact on foreign investment, particularly from China, was already becoming evident. Chinese investments in South Korea saw a sevenfold increase from the previous year, indicating the growing influence of Korean pop culture on economic ties.
2001: Troop deployment in Middle East
Starting in 2001, South Korea deployed 24,000 troops to the Middle East region to support the war on terror.
2002: Busan Hosts the Asian Games
Busan hosted the Asian Games in 2002, marking the second time South Korea had the honor of organizing this prestigious continental sporting event.
2002: Economic growth in 2002
In 2002, South Korea experienced significant economic growth with a rate of 7.2%, marking a period of rapid development.
2002: Historic World Cup Run
South Korea achieved a historic feat in 2002, becoming the first Asian team to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by South Korea and Japan, captivating the nation and football fans worldwide.
2002: Co-hosting the FIFA World Cup
South Korea and Japan jointly hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
2003: Start of Period with Average Annual Growth Rate in EU-South Korea Trade
The period beginning in 2003 marked a significant phase of economic growth between the EU and South Korea, with an average annual growth rate of 9.8% in their bilateral trade until 2013.
2003: Robotics as a National R&D Priority
Recognizing the transformative potential of robotics, South Korea designated it as one of its primary national research and development projects in 2003. This strategic decision underscored the government's commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement in this burgeoning field.
2003: Daegu Hosts the Summer Universiade
Daegu hosted the Summer Universiade in 2003, showcasing the city's infrastructure and capability in managing large-scale international sporting events.
2004: Korean Robot Game Festival
Since 2004, South Korea has hosted the annual Korean Robot Game Festival, an event designed to ignite interest in science and robot technology. This festival serves as a platform to showcase innovative robotic creations, inspire future generations of engineers and scientists, and foster a culture of technological advancement.
2004: South Korea sends troops to Iraq
In 2004, South Korea sent 3,300 troops from the Zaytun Division to northern Iraq to aid in rebuilding efforts, making it the third largest contributor in the coalition forces after the U.S. and Britain.
2005: Urbanization and Major Cities
According to the 2005 census, Seoul, the capital of South Korea, boasted a population of 10 million inhabitants. The Seoul National Capital Area, encompassing surrounding urban areas, was home to 24.5 million people, representing roughly half of South Korea's total population and ranking as the world's second-largest metropolitan region. This highlighted the significant concentration of South Korea's population in and around the capital city.
2005: Religious Landscape Changes
Between the 2005 and 2015 censuses, South Korea experienced a decline in Christianity and Buddhism, while the unaffiliated population increased.
2005: Cloning of Snuppy the Dog
In 2005, South Korean scientists achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully cloning a dog, named Snuppy. This achievement marked a significant advancement in cloning technology and highlighted South Korea's growing expertise in the field of biotechnology.
2005: Development of HUBO Humanoid Robot
The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) achieved a remarkable feat in 2005 by developing HUBO, the world's second walking humanoid robot. This breakthrough highlighted South Korea's technological prowess and its position at the forefront of robotics research and development.
May 2006: Development of EveR-1 Android
In May 2006, the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology achieved a groundbreaking feat by developing EveR-1, South Korea's first android. This technological marvel, succeeded by more sophisticated models, showcased the nation's prowess in robotics and artificial intelligence.
2006: North Korea's Continued Missile Tests Deepen Regional Instability
North Korea's missile tests in 2006 represented a continuation of its provocative actions, raising concerns about its commitment to regional stability and non-proliferation efforts.
2006: Success at the World Baseball Classic
South Korea's national baseball team showcased their talent on the world stage by finishing third in the 2006 World Baseball Classic, capturing the attention of baseball fans globally.
2006: South Korea Designated as Priority FTA Partner by EU
Highlighting its growing economic importance, South Korea was designated as a priority free trade agreement (FTA) partner by the European Union in 2006, setting the stage for future negotiations and closer economic ties.
2006: EU Accounts for Almost 45% of FDI Inflows into South Korea
Further solidifying its role as a major economic partner, the EU accounted for nearly 45% of all foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into South Korea in 2006.
2006: Launch of Arirang-2 Satellite
Continuing its space exploration efforts, South Korea launched the Arirang-2 satellite in 2006, further advancing its satellite capabilities. This launch, also conducted in partnership with Russia, underscored the nation's commitment to expanding its presence in space.
January 2007: Ban Ki-moon Becomes UN Secretary-General
In January 2007, former South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon was appointed as the UN Secretary-General, a position he held until 2016.
October 2007: North and South Korea Sign Eight-Point Peace Agreement
In a significant step towards reconciliation, North Korean leader Kim Jong-il and Roh Moo-Hyun, the leader of South Korea, signed an eight-point agreement on October 2007. The agreement addressed key issues such as permanent peace, economic cooperation, and the resumption of various transportation links between the two Koreas.
2007: Free trade agreement signed
A free trade agreement between South Korea and the United States, known as the Republic of Korea-United States Free Trade Agreement, was signed in 2007 but faced delays in legislative approval.
2007: Election of Lee Myung-bak
Conservative candidate Lee Myung-bak, former mayor of Seoul, was elected president of South Korea in 2007.
2007: Cloning of Endangered Gray Wolves
Furthering its advancements in cloning technology, Seoul National University researchers successfully cloned two female gray wolves, an endangered species, in 2007. This accomplishment demonstrated South Korea's commitment to conservation efforts through cutting-edge biotechnology.
2007: Global financial crisis avoidance
South Korea was one of the few developed countries to avoid a recession during the global financial crisis of 2007–08, demonstrating economic resilience.
April 2008: First Korean in Space
In a historic milestone, Yi So-yeon became the first Korean to journey into space in April 2008. She embarked on her mission aboard the Russian Soyuz TMA-12 spacecraft, marking a significant achievement for South Korea's space exploration endeavors.
2008: Economic performance in 2008
During the Great Recession of 2008, South Korea's economic growth rate was 2.3%, showcasing its ability to maintain economic stability.
2008: Olympic Gold in Baseball
South Korea's national baseball team achieved a historic victory at the 2008 Summer Olympics, clinching the gold medal and solidifying their status as a dominant force in international baseball.
2008: Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy in South Korea in 2008 was 79.10 years, placing it 34th globally.
June 2009: Naro Space Center Completion
June 2009 marked a pivotal moment for South Korea's space ambitions with the completion of its first spaceport, the Naro Space Center, situated in Goheung, South Jeolla Province. This achievement signaled South Korea's growing independence in space exploration and its commitment to pursuing more ambitious missions.
November 2009: South Korea Joins OECD Development Assistance Committee
Marking a significant milestone, South Korea became the first former aid recipient to join the OECD Development Assistance Committee as a donor member in November 2009.
2009: Second Place Finish at the World Baseball Classic
South Korea's national baseball team continued their impressive performance in the World Baseball Classic, finishing second in the 2009 tournament after a closely contested final against Japan, further captivating the nation's passion for the sport.
2009: Allegations of North Korean Cyberattacks
The South Korean government accused North Korea of orchestrating cyberattacks against its institutions in 2009, along with similar incidents in 2011, 2012, and 2013. These allegations, which North Korea denied, underscored the escalating tensions in cyberspace and the potential for cyberwarfare between the two nations.
2009: North Korea's Missile Deployment and Threats Escalate Tensions on the Peninsula
By early 2009, relations between North and South Korea were significantly strained. North Korea's reported deployment of missiles, coupled with its withdrawal from previous agreements and threats directed at both South Korea and the United States, created a highly volatile situation on the peninsula.
2009: Lowest Birth Rate Globally
South Korea's birth rate reached its lowest point in 2009, recording approximately 9 births per 1000 people.
2009: Plans for Robot-Themed Parks
In 2009, South Korea's government unveiled ambitious plans to establish robot-themed parks in Incheon and Masan, utilizing a combination of public and private funding. These parks aimed to promote robotics, showcase cutting-edge technologies, and engage the public in the exciting possibilities of this rapidly evolving field.
2009: South Korea Suspends Summit Talks with Japan over Yasukuni Shrine Visits
In response to Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun took the step of suspending all summit talks between the two nations in 2009.
2009: Economic performance in 2009
In 2009, amid the global financial crisis, South Korea's unemployment rate remained low at 3.6%, indicating economic resilience.
February 2010: English-Teaching Robot Assistants
In February 2010, South Korea announced its innovative plan to address a shortage of English teachers by deploying robot assistants in educational settings. These robots, designed to assist with English language instruction, were slated to be implemented in a majority of preschools and kindergartens by 2013, showcasing the integration of technology in education.
March 2010: Sinking of ROKS Cheonan
The South Korean warship ROKS Cheonan was sunk in March 2010, resulting in the deaths of 46 South Korean sailors. The incident was attributed to a North Korean submarine attack, although the UN report did not explicitly blame North Korea.
March 2010: Anyang Halla Wins Asia League Ice Hockey Title
Anyang Halla made history in March 2010 by winning their first-ever Asia League Ice Hockey title, marking a significant moment for ice hockey in South Korea.
September 2010: EU and South Korea Approve Free Trade Agreement
In September 2010, the European Union (EU) and South Korea gave their approval to a free trade agreement, marking a significant step towards strengthening economic ties between the two regions.
November 2010: Bombardment of Yeonpyeong Island
Yeonpyeong Island was bombarded by North Korean artillery in November 2010, resulting in four deaths. The incident heightened tensions between North and South Korea.
November 2010: South Korea Hosts G-20 Summit and Signs FTA with EU
South Korea hosted the G-20 Summit in Seoul in November 2010, a year that also saw the nation concluding a free trade agreement with the European Union, aimed at reducing trade barriers.
2010: Round of 16 Finish at the World Cup
South Korea's national football team continued its impressive World Cup performance in 2010, reaching the Round of 16 before being defeated by Uruguay, showcasing their competitiveness on the global stage.
2010: Asian Games Gold in Baseball
South Korea's national baseball team continued their winning ways, securing the gold medal at the 2010 Asian Games and affirming their dominance in the region.
2010: Nuclear power production
As of 2010, South Korea was the world's fifth-largest and Asia's third-largest nuclear power producer, generating 45% of its electricity from nuclear sources.
2010: New Educational Program for Foreign Students
South Korea implemented a new educational program aimed at increasing the number of foreign students by 2010. The initiative involved doubling scholarships for foreign students and targeted a total of 100,000 foreign students in the country.
2010: Seoul Hosts ITU World Championship Series Triathlon
Seoul hosted a professional triathlon race as part of the prestigious International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Championship Series in 2010, bringing a world-class sporting event to the city.
2010: Economic growth in 2010
In 2010, South Korea's economic growth rate surged to 6.2%, the fastest in eight years, following a sharp recovery from the Great Recession.
2010: Military expenditure and U.S. support
In 2010, South Korea spent ₩1.68 trillion under a cost-sharing agreement with the U.S. to support American forces in Korea, in addition to its ₩29.6 trillion military budget.
2010: Nuclear Power Exports
In 2010, South Korea emerged as a significant exporter of nuclear reactor technology. The nation finalized agreements with the UAE to construct and maintain four advanced nuclear reactors and engaged in discussions with Turkey for the development of two more reactors. This highlighted South Korea's technological prowess and strategic positioning within the global nuclear energy sector.
2010: Population Doubling
By 2010, South Korea's population had more than doubled from its 1955 figure, reaching 50 million. This substantial growth was a testament to the country's economic development and improved living standards, attracting migration from rural to urban areas and leading to a significant increase in its population density.
2010: Growth of Foreign-Born Population
Since 2010, South Korea has seen a significant increase in its foreign-born population, with approximately 30,000 foreign-born residents becoming South Korean citizens each year.
July 2011: EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement Takes Effect
The free trade agreement between the EU and South Korea came into effect on July 1, 2011, paving the way for increased trade and economic cooperation between the two partners.
October 2011: U.S. Congress passes trade agreement
On 12 October 2011, the U.S. Congress approved the long-delayed Republic of Korea-United States Free Trade Agreement, paving the way for its implementation.
2011: Allegations of North Korean Cyberattacks
The South Korean government accused North Korea of orchestrating cyberattacks against its institutions in 2009, along with similar incidents in 2011, 2012, and 2013. These allegations, which North Korea denied, underscored the escalating tensions in cyberspace and the potential for cyberwarfare between the two nations.
2011: Daegu Hosts the IAAF World Championships in Athletics
Daegu hosted the 2011 IAAF World Championships in Athletics, showcasing South Korea's ability to host major international sporting events and putting the spotlight on athletics.
March 2012: Trade agreement goes into effect
The Republic of Korea-United States Free Trade Agreement, approved by the U.S. Congress in October 2011, officially went into effect on 15 March 2012.
2012: Religious Beliefs Survey
A 2012 survey on religious beliefs in South Korea found that 52% of respondents considered themselves religious, 31% identified as not religious, and 15% declared themselves convinced atheists.
2012: Election of Park Geun-hye
Park Geun-hye, daughter of former President Park Chung Hee, became the first female president of South Korea in 2012.
2012: Psy's "Gangnam Style" Takes the World by Storm
Singer Psy's "Gangnam Style" became a global phenomenon in 2012, topping music charts worldwide and bringing K-pop to a broader international audience.
2012: Olympic Bronze in Football
South Korea's national football team secured a bronze medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics, a testament to the country's growing prowess in the sport.
2012: Renewable Portfolio Standard Program
South Korea's renewable portfolio standard program, utilizing renewable energy certificates, was implemented from 2012 to 2022.
2012: Allegations of North Korean Cyberattacks
The South Korean government accused North Korea of orchestrating cyberattacks against its institutions in 2009, along with similar incidents in 2011, 2012, and 2013. These allegations, which North Korea denied, underscored the escalating tensions in cyberspace and the potential for cyberwarfare between the two nations.
January 2013: Successful Launch of Naro-1
After two previous attempts, South Korea celebrated a triumph in January 2013 with the successful launch of Naro-1. This achievement marked a significant step forward for the nation's space program, demonstrating its technological progress and capabilities in rocket development and launch operations.
2013: North Korea's Missile Tests Further Aggravate Regional Tensions
North Korea's missile tests in 2013 served as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges posed by its weapons program and its defiance of international pressure.
2013: End of the Korean Grand Prix
The Korean Grand Prix, hosted at the Korea International Circuit in Yeongam, came to an end in 2013, after a four-year run.
2013: R&D Spending Growth
In 2013, South Korea dedicated approximately 3.9% of its gross domestic product (GDP) to research and development (R&D). This marked the beginning of a period of significant growth in R&D expenditure.
2013: Cybersecurity Concerns and Initiatives
During the first half of 2013, South Korea experienced a wave of cyberattacks that targeted government institutions, news media outlets, television stations, and financial institutions. These incidents prompted the government to prioritize cybersecurity, leading to a commitment to train 5,000 new cybersecurity professionals by 2017. While the South Korean government attributed these attacks to North Korea, Pyongyang denied involvement. This period highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity in an increasingly digital world and South Korea's proactive response to address the evolving threat landscape.
2013: End of Period with Average Annual Growth Rate in EU-South Korea Trade
By 2013, the robust period of economic growth between the EU and South Korea, which began in 2003, reached its conclusion. During this period, their bilateral trade witnessed an impressive average annual growth rate of 9.8%.
2013: Deployment of Robot Teachers
By 2013, South Korea aimed to have robot assistants deployed in most preschools and kindergartens to support English language learning. This ambitious plan reflected the nation's commitment to integrating technology into education and addressing societal challenges through innovation.
2014: Alcohol Consumption Study
A 2014 study by Euromonitor revealed that South Koreans consumed the most alcohol weekly compared to other countries globally, averaging 13.7 shots of liquor per week.
2014: South Korea Signs Free Trade Agreements with Canada and Australia
Expanding its global economic ties, South Korea signed Free Trade Agreements with Canada and Australia in 2014, further strengthening its trade relations.
2014: Innovation Leadership
From 2014 to 2019, South Korea consistently ranked first in the Bloomberg Innovation Index, demonstrating its global leadership in technological advancement and research and development.
2014: South Korea's Performance in OECD Education Rankings
In 2014, South Korea achieved the second-highest ranking globally in the OECD's assessment of students' math and science scores, highlighting the country's strong emphasis on education.
2014: Trade status in 2014
In 2014, South Korea ranked as the fifth-largest exporter and seventh-largest importer in the world, highlighting its dependence on international trade.
2014: Incheon Hosts the Asian Games
Incheon hosted the Asian Games in 2014, marking the third time South Korea had been chosen as the host nation for this prominent continental sporting event.
2015: Education Expenditure
In 2015, South Korea allocated 5.1% of its GDP to education across all levels, surpassing the OECD average of 4.3%.
2015: EU Trade with South Korea Exceeds €90 Billion
Reflecting the robust trade relationship, trade between the EU and South Korea surpassed €90 billion in 2015, signifying the success of their free trade agreement and the growing economic interdependence between them.
2015: Religion in South Korea Census
The 2015 census in South Korea collected data on religious affiliation within the country.
2015: Gwangju Hosts the Summer Universiade
Gwangju hosted the Summer Universiade in 2015, showcasing South Korea's continued dedication to supporting and hosting international sporting events.
2015: Religious Affiliation in South Korea
According to the 2015 census, over half of South Korea's population (56.1%) did not affiliate with any religious organization. Christianity made up 27.6% of the population, Buddhism accounted for 15.5%, and other religions, including Islam and indigenous faiths, constituted a smaller percentage.
2015: South Korea Signs Free Trade Agreement with New Zealand
Continuing its push for greater economic integration, South Korea inked a Free Trade Agreement with New Zealand in 2015, fostering closer economic ties between the two countries.
2015: Increase in Life Expectancy
By 2015, the average life expectancy in South Korea increased to approximately 81 years, reflecting improvements in healthcare and living conditions.
November 2016: Public Demonstrations and Impeachment of Park Geun-hye
Massive public demonstrations erupted in South Korea in November 2016 following accusations of corruption, bribery, and influence-peddling against President Park Geun-hye and her close confidante, Choi Soon-sil. Park was eventually impeached and removed from office.
2016: China Becomes South Korea's Largest Trading Partner
Highlighting the growing economic ties, China emerged as South Korea's largest trading partner in 2016. South Korean exports to mainland China reached $124 billion, with an additional $32 billion in exports going to Hong Kong.
2016: Air travel statistics in 2016
In 2016, Incheon International Airport served 58 million passengers, while Korean Air and Asiana Airlines managed significant international and domestic traffic, respectively.
2016: Foreign Residents in South Korea
In 2016, South Korea had 1,413,758 foreign residents, making up 2.75% of the population. A large portion of this number were ethnic Koreans with foreign citizenship, such as Joseonjok from China.
2016: U.S.-South Korea trade relations
In 2016, the United States was South Korea's second largest trading partner, importing $66 billion worth of goods.
2016: Japan Becomes South Korea's Third Largest Trading Partner
Demonstrating the strong economic relationship, Japan stood as South Korea's third largest trading partner in 2016, accounting for 12% ($46 billion) of South Korea's total exports.
May 2017: Inauguration of Moon Jae-in
Moon Jae-in of the Democratic Party assumed office as president of South Korea in May 2017 following his election victory.
2017: New Global Low in Birth Rate
The birth rate in South Korea hit a new low in 2017, with less than 30,000 births recorded each month, a first since record-keeping began.
2017: High Carbon Emissions and Zero Emissions Pledge
South Korea was the world's seventh-largest emitter of carbon emissions and the fifth-largest per capita emitter in 2017. President Moon Jae-in pledged to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
2017: Cybersecurity Workforce Development
South Korea set a target to train 5,000 new cybersecurity experts by 2017, as part of its efforts to bolster its defenses against cyber threats following a series of attacks in previous years. This initiative aimed to equip the nation with a skilled workforce capable of mitigating future cyber risks and protecting critical infrastructure.
2017: Top South Korean companies by revenue
In 2017, several South Korean companies were listed among the Fortune Global 500, ranking them as some of the largest by revenue.
February 2018: South Korean and Japanese Leaders Hold Summit during Winter Olympics
Amidst the backdrop of the Korean-hosted Winter Olympics, a summit between the leaders of South Korea and Japan took place on February 9, 2018, signaling a potential thaw in the often-strained bilateral relations.
April 2018: Imprisonment of Park Geun-hye
Former President Park Geun-hye was sentenced to 24 years in prison in April 2018 for abuse of power and corruption.
June 2018: Military Service Act ruled unconstitutional
On 28 June 2018, the South Korean Constitutional Court ruled the Military Service Act unconstitutional, mandating the government to offer civilian forms of military service for conscientious objectors.
November 2018: Conscientious objection legalized
On 1 November 2018, the South Korean Supreme Court legalized conscientious objection as a valid reason to refuse compulsory military service.
2018: Fertility Rate Below One Child
In 2018, South Korea's fertility rate dropped to less than one child per woman, marking a significant demographic trend.
2018: Pyeongchang Hosts the Winter Olympics
Pyeongchang hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics, marking the second time South Korea hosted the Olympic Games and highlighting the country's passion for winter sports.
2018: Revised Romanization
As of May 2018, South Korea implemented revised Romanization rules for Korean words.
2019: "Parasite" Makes History
Bong Joon-ho's film "Parasite" became a global sensation in 2019, becoming the first non-English language film to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards, marking a historic moment for Korean cinema.
2019: Innovation Leadership
From 2014 to 2019, South Korea consistently ranked first in the Bloomberg Innovation Index, demonstrating its global leadership in technological advancement and research and development.
2019: Tourism Boom
In 2019, South Korea experienced a surge in tourism, welcoming over 17 million international visitors. This influx was largely attributed to the global popularity of Korean pop culture, including K-pop music and television dramas, known as the Korean Wave or Hallyu. This cultural phenomenon not only boosted tourism but also attracted foreign investment, particularly from China, which significantly increased its investments in South Korea's service sector.
2019: Forest Landscape Integrity Index
South Korea scored 6.02 out of 10 on the Forest Landscape Integrity Index in 2019, ranking 87th globally out of 172 countries.
2020: COVID-19 Pandemic and Population Decline
The COVID-19 pandemic began affecting South Korea in 2020. In the same year, the country experienced its first-ever population decline, with more deaths than births.
2020: Production of Vaxzevria Vaccine
In late 2020, SK Bioscience Inc., a subsidiary of SK Group, began producing a significant portion of the Vaxzevria vaccine (also known as COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca). This production, under license from the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca, aimed to address the global demand for COVID-19 vaccines and was distributed worldwide through the COVAX facility under the auspices of the World Health Organization.
2020: South Korea Requests Ban of Rising Sun Flag at Tokyo Olympics
South Korea requested the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to prohibit the display of the Japanese Rising Sun Flag during the 2020 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo, citing its association with Japanese imperialism and war atrocities. The IOC responded by stating that sports stadiums should be free of political demonstrations and that concerns arising during the Games would be addressed on a case-by-case basis.
2020: First Population Decline in Modern History
South Korea experienced a significant demographic milestone in 2020, recording more deaths than births for the first time since modern record-keeping began. This event marked the beginning of a population decline, attributed to the country's very low fertility rate.
October 2021: Launch of KSLV-2 Nuri Rocket
On October 21, 2021, South Korea achieved a historic milestone with the successful launch of its domestically developed KSLV-2 Nuri rocket. This accomplishment propelled South Korea into the ranks of countries possessing independent space launch capabilities, marking a significant leap forward in its space program and technological prowess.
2021: Healthcare System Ranking
South Korea was recognized as having the world's best healthcare system in 2021, according to the Health Care Index ranking.
2021: Low Fertility Rate
South Korea's fertility rate reached a critically low point of 0.81 children per woman in 2021. This alarmingly low rate, significantly below the replacement level, raised concerns about the long-term social and economic implications of a shrinking population.
2021: Global Success of "Squid Game"
The release of Hwang Dong-hyuk's "Squid Game" in 2021 captivated global audiences, becoming Netflix's most-watched series at launch and garnering over 142 million household views in its first four weeks, highlighting the international popularity of K-dramas.
March 2022: Election of Yoon Suk-yeol
Yoon Suk-yeol, the candidate of the conservative People Power Party, narrowly won the presidential election in March 2022.
May 2022: Inauguration of Yoon Suk-yeol
Yoon Suk-yeol was sworn in as president of South Korea in May 2022.
2022: Progression to the Knockout Stage
The South Korea national football team continued its streak of World Cup appearances, advancing to the knockout stage in the 2022 tournament, solidifying their position as a strong contender in international football.
2022: Democracy Ranking
The Economist Intelligence Unit's Democracy Index classified South Korea as a "full democracy" in 2022, ranking it 24th out of 167 countries.
2022: End of Renewable Portfolio Standard Program
South Korea's renewable portfolio standard program, utilizing renewable energy certificates, concluded in 2022.
2022: High Population Density
South Korea's population density in 2022 was estimated to be 514.6 people per square kilometer, making it one of the most densely populated countries globally, with a density over ten times the world average. This high density is primarily concentrated in urban areas due to rapid industrialization and economic growth in the late 20th century.
2022: Population Estimate and Demographic Trends
In 2022, Statistics Korea estimated South Korea's population to be approximately 51.7 million. This estimate highlighted the ongoing decline in the nation's working-age population and total fertility rate, signaling potential demographic challenges in the future.
2022: Innovation Ranking
In 2022, South Korea held the 5th position in the Global Innovation Index, a testament to its strong innovation ecosystem and technological advancements. However, this ranking shifted in the following year.
2022: Expansion of Vaccine Production
In 2022, SK Bioscience Inc. expanded its vaccine production capabilities through an agreement with Novavax. This partnership aimed to produce 40 million doses of a second COVID-19 vaccine, supported by a $450 million investment in domestic and international facilities, further solidifying South Korea's role as a key player in global vaccine production.
2022: ROK Armed Forces strength
By 2022, the Republic of Korea Armed Forces had a reported personnel strength of 3,600,000, including 500,000 active and 3,100,000 reserve members, due to ongoing tension with North Korea.
2022: Record-High R&D Spending
By 2022, South Korea's R&D spending had surged to over 4.9% of its GDP, positioning the nation as the second-highest spender globally, trailing only Israel. This commitment to innovation solidified South Korea's status as a global leader in technological advancement.
October 2023: South Korea and Britain Extend Trade Agreement
In October 2023, South Korea and Britain agreed to extend a period of low or zero tariffs on products traded between the two nations, including those with parts originating from the European Union.
2023: Electoral Democracy Ranking
According to the V-Dem Democracy indices, South Korea ranked as the third most electoral democratic country in Asia in 2023.
2023: Innovation Ranking Shift
In 2023, South Korea's ranking in the Global Innovation Index shifted to 10th place, down from 5th in 2022. Despite this change, the nation continued to be recognized for its robust mobile market and advanced 4G and 5G internet infrastructure, fostering an environment conducive to technological innovation, particularly in developing novel media and applications.
2023: R&D Spending Shift
In 2023, the South Korean government announced a strategic shift in its R&D spending approach. Despite a planned reduction of approximately 11% for 2024, the government aimed to redirect resources towards emerging fields such as rocket development, biomedical research, and fostering US-style biotech innovation. This decision highlighted the government's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancement while prioritizing strategic areas with high growth potential.
2023: Press Freedom Ranking
In the 2023 Press Freedom Index, South Korea secured the second-highest position for press freedom in Continental and East Asia, trailing only Taiwan.
2023: Life Expectancy Ranking
South Korea ranked sixth globally for life expectancy in 2023, with an average lifespan of 83.5 years, reflecting the country's advanced healthcare system.
2024: Planned R&D Spending Reduction
The South Korean government planned to reduce R&D spending by about 11% in 2024. This strategic decision aimed to allocate resources to new initiatives, including rocket development and biomedical research, reflecting a shift in priorities towards emerging technologies.
2050: Target for Net-Zero Emissions
South Korea aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, as pledged by President Moon Jae-in.