The ancient name for Korea is "Chosun" which means "the land of the morning calm" and comes from the Yi Dynasty (1392- 1905 BC). The name "Korea" comes from the Koryu Dynasty (935--1392) BC during which westerners had their first contact with Korea.

The national anthem of Korea is "Aeguk Ka" ("love of country"). It was written during the Japanese occupation of Korea 1905-1945 and was later set to music by Ahn Eak Tai