Miracle on the Han River
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"Miracle on the Han River" (Hangul: 한강의 기적 Hangangeui Kijeok) is a phrase used to describe the period of rapid economic growth that took place in South Korea from the early 1960s to the late 1990s. It is considered by many Koreans as a symbol of national pride and "can-do" spirit.
The word "miracle" is used to describe the growth of South Korea into today's global economic powerhouse, something considered to be impossible by many at the time. In particular, this phrase often refers to the growth of Seoul through which the Han River flows. Seoul's infrastructure was totally destroyed by the Korean War and millions lived in poverty at the time with thousands of unemployed men and beggars on the streets seeking for basic needs such as food. In less than four decades, this "hopeless" city was completely transformed into one of the world's most prosperous and wealthiest cities, the centre of business and commerce in Asia and a highly developed global economic hub having the most advanced technological infrastructure in the world.
"Miracle on the Han" is linked with the "Miracle on the Rhine", which is used to describe the economic rebirth of (West) Germany after World War II.
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