How big is South Korea compared to the US?

How big is South Korea compared to the US? I was surprised to find that the question is more common than I thought.

So, I’m here to provide a quick answer for those who want to find out without the hassle of searching on a map or Googling ‘area comparison.

South Korea, a relatively small East Asian nation.

When it comes to comparing the size of countries, South Korea and the United States provide an interesting contrast.

South Korea, a relatively small East Asian nation, and the United States, a vast North American superpower, differ significantly in terms of landmass.

South Korea’s Compact Landscape.

South Korea, situated on the Korean Peninsula, covers a land area of approximately 100,210 square kilometers (38,691 square miles). Despite its relatively modest size, it packs in a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged mountain ranges to fertile plains and a stunning coastline along the Yellow Sea to the west and the Sea of East to the east. The compact nature of South Korea makes it convenient to explore.

with efficient transportation networks connecting its vibrant cities and scenic countryside.

The Vastness of the United States.

In stark contrast, the United States is the third-largest country in the world by land area.

spanning approximately 9.8 million square kilometers (3.8 million square miles). Its immense size allows for a wide variety of climates, ecosystems, and geographical features. From the icy wilderness of Alaska to the tropical paradises of Hawaii and the bustling cities of the East and West Coasts, the United States offers a vast tapestry of landscapes and cultures.

Size Comparison

To put things in perspective.

South Korea is roughly 1/100th the size of the United States. In fact, you could fit South Korea within the borders of the state of Indiana. This size disparity influences many aspects of life in these countries, from the diversity of climates to the available land for agriculture, industry, and recreation.