South Korea occupies the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. Much of the interior is mountainous, with larger lowlands along parts of the west. The west and south coasts contain many inlets and islands; the east coast is generally more continuous.
Mountains beside cultivated lowlands
Compare the west coast around the Han River estuary with a section of the east coast. Notice the difference in the amount of flat coastal land.
Similar landscapes across borders
Japan also combines wooded mountains, dense urban areas, and cultivated valley floors. Apartment blocks or rice fields do not settle the location. Use the coastline and the shape of a major river plain for context.