Seoul has been the capital of Korea since 1394 and the capital of South Korea since 1948. The word Seoul means capital in the Korean language. Seoul became the capital city in 1394 because of its strategic advantages from a defence point of view. It is located on the Han River at the junction of inland waterways and the sea, which means it is perfect for the transport of goods in trade. The location of Seoul is also excellent according to geomancy, which is the art of arranging buildings favourably. The city is based within a topographic basin surrounded by low hills. The growth of the city was not considerable until the early 20th century and the city remained roughly the same physical size for hundreds of years.
In 1876 Korea became exposed to the western influence at a time when the Choson dynasty was weak and could not control the influence. in 1905 a Japanese protectorate was established over the kingdom. The Japanese started and introducing modernization to Seoul that lead to constant growth and expansion of the capital city over half a century, they introduced modern technology and paved roads and western style construction. The 20th and 21st centuries has seen explosive population and physical growth in Seoul making it one of the biggest city in the world.
In 1876 Korea became exposed to the western influence at a time when the Choson dynasty was weak and could not control the influence. in 1905 a Japanese protectorate was established over the kingdom. The Japanese started and introducing modernization to Seoul that lead to constant growth and expansion of the capital city over half a century, they introduced modern technology and paved roads and western style construction. The 20th and 21st centuries has seen explosive population and physical growth in Seoul making it one of the biggest city in the world.