Scotland and Ireland: Sovereign Nations

Yes, both are countries.

Scotland is a nation within the United Kingdom, occupying northern Great Britain. Population ~5.4M. Capital: Edinburgh. It has distinct legal, education, and sports systems.

Ireland (Republic of Ireland) is a sovereign island nation in the EU. Population ~4.9M. Capital: Dublin. It shares the island with Northern Ireland (part of UK). Ireland has a unique Celtic heritage, strong literary/musical traditions, and a distinct cultural identity.