Although technology may seem like a contemporary development, humans have been using technology since they began converting natural resources into tools. For example, the understanding of fire and its use in prehistoric cooking could be considered a facet of technology.

South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a sovereign country located in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. The name "Korea" is derived from Goryeo, a dynasty which ruled in the Middle Ages. South Korea is now a liberal democracy and an economic powerhouse. The most prestigious comprehensive universities are Seoul National University, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Yonsei University and Korea University.