The Korean Peninsula

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14. Buddhist Shrine, Korea. A hill near Kyongju provides an ideal retreat for contemplation. Persimmons (Diospyros geus) with yellow fruit are indigenous to the area.

The Korean Peninsula (Hankuk) is dominated by highlands that run throughout its length. The mountains are of ancient Archaen rocks that have been uplifted to the east and down-tilted to the west. The central range, known as Hamgyong in the north and Taeback in the south, runs parallel and close to the east coast. The northern section linked to the Changbai Range on the Chinese border is fairly extensive and includes the highest peak in Korea, the Paektu-san or `White Top Mountain' (2,744m). The structure is also complex with lava plateaus in the interior and escarpment to the east. Two ranges,the Kangnam and Myohyang, trend to the south-west but elevations do not exceed 2,000m. Another eastern range, the Nangnim, turns south to join Taeback Sanmaek. The latter is not very high but forms the watershed of the peninsula. The slopes along the east coast are steep, while those in the west are gentle. The average height of the highest plateau, Gaema, is only 1,500m. The range continues south-westerly as Soback Sanmaek and its high point, Chii-san (1,915m), virtually approaches the sea coast. The climate of Korea is monsoon humid, midway between the continental and marine types. The highlands were once heavily forested and have been cleared extensively for agriculture and timber extraction. The people are derived from the nomadic tribes of Mongolia who have fused into a homogeneous group. Although Chinese cultural influence is dominant (Plate 14), their ancient heritage survives in shamanistic rituals generally performed by priestesses