Cambodia

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Introduction to the Country

Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is a constitutional monarchy where the King serves as the head of state. The official language of the country is Khmer, and Buddhism is the dominant religion, with 90% of the population following it. Cambodia’s total land area is approximately 1.8 times the size of South Korea, but its population remains under 20 million, making its population density relatively low compared to other countries. The capital city, Phnom Penh, is situated in southern Cambodia and has a population of around 2 million people.

Historical Background

In 1863, Cambodia voluntarily became a French protectorate to seek protection from Thailand and Vietnam. As a result, Phnom Penh was designated as the capital and was significantly influenced by French culture and architecture. Notable examples include the Royal Palace, where the King resides, as well as the city’s roads and construction techniques, which reflect French colonial influence.

Angkor Wat – The Icon of Cambodia

When people think of Cambodia, the first thing that often comes to mind is Angkor Wat. Recognized as one of Buddhism’s three most sacred sites by UNESCO, Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. It was built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II of the Khmer Empire, which once dominated the Southeast Asian region. After the fall of the Khmer Empire, the temple was hidden in the jungle for centuries until it was rediscovered by French explorer Henri Mouhot, bringing it to global attention.

A Dark Chapter – The Killing Fields

Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is a constitutional monarchy where the King serves as the head of state. The official language of the country is Khmer, and Buddhism is the dominant religion, with 90% of the population following it. Cambodia’s total land area is approximately 1.8 times the size of South Korea, but its population remains under 20 million, making its population density relatively low compared to other countries.The capital city, Phnom Penh, is situated in southern Cambodia and has a population of around 2 million people.