Koreans have loved the rose of Sharon for centuries. As such it was a logical choice for Korea's national flower. According to records, Koreans have treasured the rose of Sharon as a heavenly flower since ancient times. In fact, the Silla Kingdom called itself Mugunghwa Country. Even the ancient Chinese referred to Korea as "The land of gentlemen where Mugunghwa blooms." Love for the flower was further heightened when Mugunghwa samcheolli hwaryeo gangsan" ("Rose of Sharon, thousand miles of beautiful mountain and river land!") was written into the national anthem of the late 19th century. As the rose of Sharon has been an important part of the Korean culture for centuries, it was only natural that the government adopted it as the national flower after Korea was liberated from Japanese colonial rule. The rose of Sharon blooms from early July through late October. Some 2,000 to 3,000 bloom on a single plant, which is strong enough to survive even when it is transplanted or cut for decoration or flower arrangements. Thus, the flower represents the wish for lasting national development and prosperity.   Korea is situated on a peninsula, which spans 1,100 kilometers north to south. The peninsula shares its northern border with China and Russia. West: 124 11 E East: 131 52 E South: 33 6 N North: 43 00 N Total area: Korea encompasses a total of 222,154 square kilometers, which is approximately the same size as Britain or Romania. Terrain: About 70% of the land is mountainous, with the main concentrations to the north and east. Along the southern and western coasts the mountains descend gradually toward broad coastal plains. The highest peak is Mt. Baekdusan in North Korea, which rises 2,744 meters above sea level. Considering its territorial size, Korea has a relatively large number of rivers and streams. Surrounded by water on three sides, Korea has 3,400 islands.