Book Review: The National Atlas of Korea

Summary

This review assesses The National Atlas of Korea (2009 concise edition), a South Korean publication containing approximately 380 thematic and topographical maps with 50 pages of explanatory text, predominantly covering the Republic of Korea. The atlas spans topics from landforms, climate, population, and economy to culture and transportation, featuring unusual maps of earthquake epicentres, snowfall dates, and migratory bird routes. Although most maps use a small 1:5,000,000 scale, 60 full-page maps include 1:500,000 topographical maps, and a 1:10,000 map of Dokdo Island reflects South Korea's territorial dispute with Japan. The reviewer highlights notable facts—third-highest population density globally, fourth-largest oil importer, highest OECD male smoking rate—and concludes the atlas effectively informs readers about contemporary Korea despite small-scale maps and lettering.