FACTS ABOUT KOREA

2015 Edition
Copyright 1973
Published by
Korean Culture and Information Service
Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism
408, Galmae-ro, Sejong-si, Government Complex-Sejong,
Republic of Korea
Telephone: 82-44-203-3339~47
Fax: 82-44-203-3595
All rights reserved
Printed in Seoul
ISBN 978-89-7375-584-4 03910
For further information about Korea,
please visit:
www.korea.net

Contents

Korean Life _ 04

Tourism _ 120

History _ 184

Economy _ 238

Clothing and Fashion

Historical Heritage of Seoul

Food

Tourist Attractions and Shopping Centers

The Beginnings of the Countrys History

(Prehistoric Times - Gojoseon)

The Korean Economy

- the Miracle on the Hangang River

Housing

Streets of Youth

Three Kingdoms and other States

Koreas Open Market Capitalist Economy

Festivals, Celebrations and Holidays

Recreation in Nature

Unified Silla and Balhae

Industrial Brand Leaders and Korean Industrial

Standards

Religion

Tourist Attractions outside Seoul

Hanok Villages

Society _ 34

Major Local Festivals in Korea

Labor and Social Welfare System

Transformation into
a Multicultural Society

Sports _ 166
How South Korea Became
a Sporting Powerhouse
1988 Seoul Summer Olympics
2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan

Culture _ 60

Joseon
The Fall of Joseon: Imperial Japans
Annexation of Korea
Independence Movement

South Korea Summary

Education, Research, and Industry

Goryeo

2011 World Championships in Athletics

UNESCO Heritage in Korea

2012 London Summer Olympics

Traditional Arts

2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics

Hallyu (Korean Wave)

Taekwondo

Transition to a Democracy
and Transformation
into an Economic Powerhouse

Efforts to Grow as a Global Power

Inter-Korean Relations _ 260

Historical Background
Simultaneous Admission of
the two Koreas to the UN
Inter-Korean Exchanges and Cooperation

Constitution and
Government _ 224
Constitution
Executive, Legislative and the Judiciary
Independent Organizations
Local Government
International Relations

Efforts for Lasting Peace

Relevant Websites _ 270

Sources of Photos _ 272

Korean Life

Clothing and Fashion

Food
Housing
Festivals, Celebrations and Holidays
Religion

1
Korean Life

Since their settlement in prehistoric times on the land now known

as the Korean Peninsula, the Korean people have developed a

A family wearing hanbok

(left)

wealth of unique cultural traditions related to the way they dress,

eat, and behave at home. These traditions reflect the natural
environment of their homeland, a terrain predominately covered
by hills and mountains, bound by the sea on three sides and
marked by four distinct seasons.

Clothing and Fashion

The Korean people learned to use various fabrics, such as sambe
(hemp), mosi (ramie), cotton and silk to make a range of clothing
that was not only attractive but also provided them with effective
protection even during the harshest winters and the hottest
summers. They made warm winter clothes using the technique
of filling soft cotton between two layers of material, silk or
cotton fabric, and sewing them together with fine stitching,
and produced cool summer clothes with hemp and ramie. These
clothes typically feature graceful lines and forms that create the
serene aura characteristic of the traditional Korean clothes we
know as hanbok.
History reveals that Korean people in the past tended to
prefer simple, white clothes to clothing decorated with different
6

colors and designs. That is why they were often referred to as the

items for youth and the young at heart. With its fully developed

white-clad people among their neighbors who admired them

distribution and sales network, highly efficient production

for being a peaceful people. Nonetheless, Korea has also had a

facilities, and throng of talented, aspiring designers, the district

long tradition of enjoying colorful clothes with complex designs

is now one of Seouls most popular attractions among foreign

depending on the period and the wearers social status.

tourists.

Today, Korea is home to many talented fashion designers

who have earned an international reputation with their creative

Food

designs which combine traditional Korean designs and patterns

Since ancient times, the Korean people have maintained a belief

with a modern artistic sensibility. The beauty of traditional Korean

that food and medicine have the same origin and hence perform

clothes has been introduced to, and praised in, many parts of the

the same function, following the adage that food is the best

world thanks to the remarkable success in recent years of many

medicine. They believe that health and illness alike come from

Korean films and TV dramas including Dae Jang Geum.

the food they consume and how they eat it, and this idea has

Korean people today seem to prefer clothes inspired by

played a crucial role in the development of traditional Korean

modern Western styles to their traditional clothes, although some

medicine whose basic principle is that we should use medicine

people still insist on wearing the latter on traditional holidays

only after food has failed.

or for special family occasions such as weddings. Their love of

tradition and yearning for the new sometimes led to the creation

Fermentation of Food

of attractive modernized hanbok.

One of the key words to understanding traditional Korean

Now a household name across the world thanks to Gangnam

Style, a K-Pop song that shook the world in 2012, Gangnam-

mature so that it has improved taste and

gu in Seoul is a large district where wealthy residential areas

nutritional properties and can be stored

sit alongside high-end art facilities and Koreas busiest fashion

for a longer period. The Korean foods

streets. The district now attracts numerous fashion-minded

that best represent the tradition of

tourists from across East Asia and beyond with annual fashion

fermentation developed in Korea

festivals comprising international fashion shows and contests

include doenjang (soybean paste),

participated in by many rising designers.

ganjang (soy sauce), gochujang (chili

Another fashion district in Seoul that enjoys an international

food is fermentation, a metabolic process that helps food to

Doenjang Jjigae
(Soybean Paste Stew)
This stew-like Korean dish
is made by boiling an
assortment of ingredients
such as meat, clams,
vegetables, mushrooms,
chili, tofu, and soy paste.

paste) and jeotgal (fermented fish

reputation is Dongdaemun-gu, which has grown into a hub of the

sauce), whose fermentation can take

regional fashion industry, providing creative, affordable fashion

anywhere from several months to several

9

Jangdokdae
(Soy Jar Terrace)
An area outside the
kitchen used to store
large brown-glazed
pottery jars containing
soy paste, soy sauce,
and chili paste.

years. The degree of fermentation is a key factor in the taste and

soy sauce tends to have a richer flavor and taste when brewed for

flavor of food cooked at home and in restaurants

a longer period.

Doenjang (Soybean Paste) and Ganjang (Soy Sauce)

Gochujang (Chili Paste)

Two of the most important items of traditional fermented food

Gochujang (chili paste) is a traditional Korean condiment made

in Korea are doenjang and ganjang. To make them, it is necessary

by fermenting a mixture of soybean malt, salt, and chili pepper

to soak soybeans in water and boil them until fully cooked. Then,

powder with a blend of powdered rice, barley, flour, and malted

they must be pounded and ormed into brick-shaped lumps, and

barley. Gochujang has long been one of the most important

left to dry and ferment. Then, they are placed in salted water in

traditional condiments among Korean people, whose palates

a large pot along with dried red chili and heated charcoal, which

have evolved towards a preference for hot and spicy foods since

help remove impurities and odor during the fermentation process.

they were introduced to chili several hundred years ago. Chili and

The beans thus prepared are then left for about two to three

gochujang are now often regarded as a symbol of the vibrant,

months until they become fully fermented. This product should

energetic disposition of Korean people.

then be divided into two, solids and liquid, of which the former
needs to be brewed for over five more months and the latter for

Jeotgal (Salted Seafood)

over three months to develop a full flavor and taste. Just like wine,

An almost indispensable ingredient for kimchi and a very popular

condiment used to enhance the taste of food, jeotgal (salted
seafood) is made by mixing one of a variety of seafood (such
as anchovy, shrimp, oyster, or clam) with salt, or with other
condiments in addition to salt, and fermenting it in a cool place.

Saeujeot
(Salted Shrimp)
One of the two most
popular fish sauces in
Korea, the other being
anchovy sauce, this
shrimp sauce made
by fermenting salted
shrimps is used to
improve the taste of
dishes, including kimchi.

They say that a longer period of fermentation makes it tastier.

The tradition of making fermented fish sauce yielded several
special delicacies including sikhae, which is made by fermenting
fish mixed with rice and condiments.
Kimchi
Now beginning to gain a worldwide reputation as a representative
food of Korea, kimchi has been praised for its anti-carcinogenic
properties and nutritional value, as well as numerous variations
10

11

that create excitingly diverse flavors and tastes. The most

Making Baechu (Cabbage) Kimchi

common type of kimchi is made by mixing salted white cabbage

with kimchi paste made of chili powder, garlic, spring onion,
Korean radish ginger, fish sauce and other ingredients like fresh

seafood. Kimchi is normally eaten after fermenting it for several

days although some prefer mugeunji (ripe kimchi) which is fully
fermented for over one year.
The ingredients of kimchi vary according to each region
2

and its special local produce and traditions. Seoul, for instance,
is famous for gungjung kimchi (royal kimchi), bossam kimchi
(wrapped kimchi), chonggak kimchi (whole radish kimchi), and
kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi), while Jeolla-do is well known for
its godeulppaegi kimchi (Korean lettuce kimchi) and gat kimchi

(leaf mustard kimchi).

In 2001, the Codex Alimentarius Commission listed Korean
kimchi in the internationally recognized standards, and in 2012
officially recognized the term kimchi cabbage, which had

previously been referred to as Chinese cabbage until then. In

2006, a US health magazine, Health Magazine, selected kimchi as
one of the five healthiest foods on earth.
Bibimbap

1 Ingredients for kimchi

2 Slice and wash kimchi cabbages and soak in salt water.

Bibimbap (literally mixed rice) is essentially a dish of cooked rice

served after mixing it with an assortment of fresh and seasoned

3 Clean the bottoms of the cabbages.

vegetables, fried egg, minced raw beef and other ingredients

4 Mix seasonings with salted and fermented fish.

before cooking. The dish is closely related with Jeonju, a UNESCO-

5 Spread seasonings evenly between the cabbage leaves.

designated "City of Gastronomy", where food-related festivals,

6 Wrap the whole cabbage and store in a cool place.

including the Bibimbap Festival, are held every autumn, attracting

gastronomes from across Korea and beyond. Bibimbap has

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recently begun to attract worldwide attention for its nutritional

balance, which is said to help keep those who eat it free from
geriatric diseases, and is now generally cited as one of the three
most representative dishes of Korean cuisine along with kimchi
and bulgogi.
Bulgogi
Bulgogi, which literally means fire meat, refers to a traditional
Korean dish made by grilling beef or (rarely) pork after shredding
or slicing it and marinating it in sweet soy sauce mixed with a
great variety of condiments. It is one of the rare meat dishes
to have developed in Korea, where people were generally more
accustomed to eating vegetable dishes, and has won many
enthusiasts outside the country. Bulgogi has recently been
adopted by fast-food restaurants in Korea, resulting in the
emergence of bulgogi hamburgers and pizzas.
Tteok (Rice Cake)
Tteok, or Korean rice cake, refers to a range of sticky cakes made
by steaming powdered rice with other grains, usually beans,
or by pounding boiled rice into different shapes and textures.
While tteok was sometimes eaten as part of a meal, it was
more often one of a variety of special foods served at special
family or communal occasions such as birthday parties, wedding
receptions, memorial services and traditional holidays. Rice is the
main ingredient of tteok, but it is often mixed with other grains,
fruits, nuts and herbs such as mugwort, red bean, jujube, soybean
and chestnut.
Korean people in the past assigned various symbolic meanings
14

Bibimbap: Cooked rice served with fresh and seasoned vegetables, minced raw beef and chili paste (above).
Bulgogi: Stripped or shredded beef marinated with soy sauce-based condiments and grilled (below)

15

to tteok and made and ate it according to those meanings. They

digestive problems. In recent years juk houses have begun to

made (and still make) baekseolgi (white steamed rice cakes),

appear in many parts of Korea. They usually prepare the dish with

for instance, on the first birthday of a baby as it symbolizes a

a wide range of ingredients, mostly grains and vegetables, and it

long life, and they made patsirutteok (steamed red bean and

has also been developed into numerous varieties, some of which

rice cake) whenever they started a business as its red color was

are now served at small specialty diners.

believed to help repel evil forces. They celebrate New Years Day
with tteokguk, consisting of a broth with rice flakes, and Chuseok

Noodles

(the 15th Day of the Eighth Lunar Month) with songpyeon, bite-

Korean people have developed a wide range of noodle dishes

sized half-moon shaped rice cakes stuffed with a honey, chestnut,

that are full of symbolic meanings. One such dish is janchi

soybean, or sesame mixture. There are many famous tteok houses

guksu (literally banquet noodles), which is served in a hot

in Nagwon-dong in downtown Seoul.

anchovy broth to the guests at a wedding reception, (hence the

name). This dish is so closely related with the idea of a happy

Juk (Porridge)

marriage in Korea that a question such as When can we eat

Juk is a Korean-style porridge made of various grains that is

noodles? would readily be understood to mean When do you

usually served to children, the elderly, or people suffering from

plan to get married? It is also eaten to celebrate birthdays

because it symbolizes a long, healthy life. Korean people
also have a long established tradition of eating naengmyeon
(cold buckwheat noodles), served in either cold beef broth
(Pyeongyang naengmyeon) or with a spicy chili sauce (Hamheung
naengmyeon).
Hanjeongsik (Korean Set Menu)
Hanjeongsik, otherwise known as the Korean set meal, originally
consisted of cooked rice, soup, and anywhere from three to five,

Injeolmi Rice Cake

These Korean rice cakes are made by
coating cubes of pounded glutinous rice
with bean powder. They are marked by
their soft and chewy texture and are
easily digested.

16

Janggukjuk
(Soy Sauce Porridge)
This traditional Korean porridge (Juk)
is made by boiling minced beef and
Pyogo mushrooms with pounded rice
and seasoned with soy sauce. It is rich in
proteins and particularly good for people
suffering from digestive problems.

Kongguksu
(Noodles in Cold Soybean Soup)
This Korean noodle dish is made by mixing
boiled noodles with chilled bean soup. For
Koreans, it is a fine source of protein.

(largely vegetable,) side dishes. As people are gradually becoming

better off due to the thriving national economy, todays set meal
tends to be much more luxurious with tens of new dishes, meat
and fish included, although the three basic dishes, i.e. rice, soup,
and kimchi, still remain. Two cities in the southwestern part
17

commemorative occasions. Currently some 300 traditional

beverages have survived, including Munbaeju (wild pear liquor)
and Songjeolju (pine knot liquor) in Seoul; Sanseong Soju (distilled
liquor) in Gwangju of Gyeonggi-do; Hongju (red liquor) and
Leegangju (distilled liquor) in Jeolla-do; Sogokju (rice wine) in
Hansan of Chungcheong-do; Insamju (ginseng liquor) in Geumsan;
Gyodong Beopju (rice liquor) and Andong Soju (distilled liquor) in
Gyeongju of Gyeongsangbuk-do; and Okseonju (distilled liquor) in
Hongcheon of Gangwon-do.
One of the most popular traditional alcoholic beverages
across Korea today is makgeolli (rice wine), which is also known
by other names such as nongju (farmers wine), takju (cloudy
wine) and dongdongju (rice wine). It is made by a process in
Hanjeongsik
(Korean Set Menu)
This traditional Korean set
meal typically consisted
of rice and soup and an
assortment of side dishes.
The meal is often divided
into subgroups according
to the number of side
dishes, i.e. 3, 5, 7, 9 and 12.

of Korea, Jeonju and Gwangju, are particularly famous for this

which steamed rice, barley or wheat is mixed with malt and left

Makgeolli
This rustic alcoholic
beverage, which is
widely popular in Korea,
is made by fermenting
steamed rice, barley, or
wheat mixed with malt.

traditional Korean meal.

Korean Temple Cuisine
Korean Buddhist temples have maintained their own culinary
traditions, creating a wonderful range of vegetable dishes and
ingredients and developing recipes to provide the proteins and
other substances required for the monks and nuns to remain
healthy. Temple foods are now enthusiastically received by vegans
and other people who follow special diets for health-related
reasons.
Alcoholic Beverages
A wide variety of alcoholic beverages have been developed
across different parts of Korea to meet the needs of local
communities during holidays, festivals, memorial rites and other

18

19

to ferment, and has an alcohol content of 6-7%, making it a

distinctive feature of the hanok (traditional Korean house) is an

fairly mild drink. It has recently begun to fascinate connoisseurs

underfloor heating system called ondol. Literally meaning warm

and health-conscious young consumers across many parts of the

stones and developed during the prehistoric period, ondol refers

world, resulting in the opening of makgeolli brewery schools and

to the system of channels running beneath the stone floor of a

the appearance of well-trained sommeliers.

room through which heat is delivered from the fireplace in the

Another hugely popular alcoholic beverage of Korea is soju

which is made by adding water and flavoring to alcohol extracted

Hanok, traditional Korean

houses
Seobaekdang, the head
residence of the Gyeongju
Sohn clan, in Yangdong
Village located in Gyeongju,
North Gyeongsang
Province

kitchen. It is also designed to effectively draw out the smoke

through the under-the-floor passages connected to the chimney.

from sweet potatoes and grains. With an alcohol content that

Another important element of the traditional Korean house

varies but is significantly higher than makgeolli, it is much

is the board-floored room (maru) located at the center and used

appreciated by ordinary citizens across Korea and is rapidly

for multiple purposes. The room is usually larger than other rooms

gaining enthusiasts outside Korea.

and is raised from the ground to allow air to freely circulate under
it, creating a cool living environment during the warm summer

Housing

season. The smart system combining ondol and maru makes

Korean people have developed unique architectural techniques

the traditional Korean house a comfortable living space for its

to build housing that is properly adapted to the surrounding

residents not only in the harsh winter but also in the scorching

natural environment, providing dwellers with better protection. A

summer. The roof is typically covered with either ceramic tiles or

thatching. While most of the roof tiles are dark gray, some exhibit
more vibrant colors as demonstrated, for example, by the Official
Residence of the Korean President Cheongwadae, which literally
means Blue House because, as the name shows, it is covered by
blue roof tiles.
While traditional Korean houses are generally wooden
structures, they can survive as long as other buildings
made with other materials if properly taken care of. Built
in 1363, Geungnakjeon Hall of Bongjeongsa Temple in
Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, for instance, is Koreas oldest
remaining building, still maintaining its original structure intact
after 650 years. As an ideal location for their house, Korean
people preferred a site protected by hills or mountains on three

20

21

of its sides, with a stream or river passing in front, thus providing

easy access to water. Houses built in such a place create a great

Professor Robert Fouser and Hanok

harmony with the surrounding environment, attracting more and

Professor Robert Fouser, the first foreign national employed by Seoul

more admirers not just in Korea but outside it as well.

National University to teach students at the Department of Korean

These days, over 60% of Seouls population live in modern

apartments but, interestingly, these tall, multistoried buildings
are almost without exception furbished with a heating system

Hanok, traditional Korean

houses
The ancient house of
Yun Jeung, a Confucian
scholar of the late Joseon
(1392-1910) period,
situated in Nonsan, South
Chungcheong Province,
also called Myeongjae
Gotaek after his pen name

22

Language Education, is a great enthusiast of the traditional Korean

houses known as hanok. His love of Korean language and culture has
a long history as his career, which includes opening, and teaching, a
Korean language course at Kagoshima University in Japan, attests. His

inspired by the age-old ondol system. Similarly, newly built

home in Korea was for a number of years an exquisite Hanok located

detached houses are also reliant on the legacy of the ondol

in Bukchon, downtown Seoul, until he moved to Seochon, another

system of heating the floor, although the traditional heat passages

historic district of the Korean capital, where he found a new hanok

are now replaced by under-floor metal pipes with running water

which is still his home today. He loves not only the house he lives in but also the surroundings, a

heated either by gas or electricity. This heating system has now

begun to be exported to other countries with wide variations in

complex network of narrow alleys winding between other hanok buildings and the natural environment
around it. Recently, he launched a campaign to increase public awareness of the value of the hanok as
a living space and the importance of preserving and reviving it for the present and future generations.

daily temperature.

23

Festivals, Celebrations and Holidays

Festivals
Until the mid-20th century, Korea was primarily an agricultural
society, and the seasonal rhythms of daily life were organized
by the lunar calendar. As a society where farming was hugely
important for the subsistence of its members, it developed a great
variety of semi-religious events where prayers were offered for a
good harvest and abundant food, and which gradually developed
into communal celebrations and festivals.
The Lunar New Years Day (Seol or Seollal), which is generally
regarded as the most important of all the traditional seasonal
festivals, is celebrated with a special festival food called tteokguk,
or rice flake soup. Eating it signified becoming one year older
(this means that a child born on the 29th of the twelfth lunar
month becomes two years old only two days later). The festival
is also related with the ceremony of performing the Sebae (New
Years Bow) before the elders of ones family and neighborhood.
After Sebae, the elders present New Years gift money to their
1
2

1. Sebae
(New Year Bow)
Korea has a long tradition
of starting the New Year
(by the lunar calendar)
with the ceremonious
bows made by children
to their parents
2. Chuseok and
Songpyeon
During the mid-autumn
holiday of Chuseok (15th
day of the 8th lunar
month), families gather
together and make
songpyeon (half-moon
shape rice cake).

24

juniors.
Another important seasonal festival called Daeboreum (Greater
Full Moon) celebrates the fifteenth day of the first month of the
year by the lunar calendar. On that day, people eat special festival
food called ogokbap, a dish made with five grains and served
with an assortment of cooked vegetables, play games aimed for
the unity of the local community and perform rituals for good
harvest. Chuseok, which is held on the fifteenth day of the eighth
lunar month, consists of thanksgiving services in which newly
harvested crops and fruits are offered to the ancestral spirits.
Generally held to be as important as the Lunar New Years Day,
25

Chuseok is also one of the two annuals occasions when all the

husbands and wives were given by their parents or matchmakers

family members gather together.

after an examination of their horoscopic data, called Saju (Four

Pillars of Destiny), which are determined by the hour and date

Traditional Wedding
The traditional Korean
wedding ceremony largely
consists of three stages:
Jeonallye, in which the
groom visits the brides
family with a wooden
goose; Gyobaerye, in which
bride and groom exchange
ceremonious bows; and
Hapgeullye, where the
marrying couple share a
cup of wine.
The photo shows a bride
and groom exchanging
ceremonious bows during
the Gyobaerye stage of
their wedding ceremony.

Celebrations

of their birth. The tradition of consulting a diviner on their luck

Korean parents mark the one-hundredth day anniversary

in the New Year and exchanging horoscopic data as part of the

(baegil) and the first birthday (dol) of their baby with special

matchmaking process is still maintained by some families.

big celebrations in which their families, relatives and friends

In the past, a wedding ceremony was an important village

participate. They generally hold a large celebratory banquet for

festival where the entire community would gather together to

their baby with a ritual prayer for the babys health, success in life,

celebrate the young couple dressed in luxurious wedding robes

and longevity, and the participants give the baby gold rings as a

and bejeweled headdresses. Today, the Western style of wedding

special gift.

ceremony is widely regarded as the norm, but some traditional

Weddings have also been a very important family celebration

rituals such as Pyebaek (traditional ceremony to pay respect to

in Korea. Most Korean people today choose their own spouse

the groom's family by the newly-wedded couple right after their

according to their hearts desire. In pre-modern times, however,

wedding) and Ibaji (wedding food that the bride presents to the
groom's family) are still maintained.
In Korea, a baby becomes one year old as soon as she is born,
and 60 years old on her 59th birthday. The age 60 has a profound
meaning for Korean people as it signifies the completion of a
sexagenary cycle. Someone who had reached the age of 60 was
admired greatly as he or she was regarded as old enough to
have experienced all the principles of heaven and earth. Today
Korean men and women live much longerabout 80 years on
averagethan they did before and the 60th birthday is no longer
celebrated in such a grand manner as it was previously.
National Holidays
In Korea there are five national holidays designated by the
government: Independence Declaration Day (Samiljeol, March
1), which commemorates the March First Movement, one of

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Public Holidays in Korea

(Gwangbokjeol, August 15), celebrating national liberation from

Imperial Japan in 1945; National Foundation Day, which marks

New Years Day

Seollal

The first day of the year.

The first day of the year by the lunar calendar.
Three Day Celebration.

Mar 1

Independence
Day

Commemorates the March First Movement,

non-violent public resistance against the
Japanese colonial rule, and the declaration of
Korean Independence in 1919

Apr 8

Buddhas
Birthday

Celebrates the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha.

A variety of celebratory events are held in
Buddhist temples across Korea,

Public Holidays

Childrens Day

A great variety of celebratory and fun events

for children are held across the country.

Korea include New Years Day, Seollal (or Lunar New Years Day,

A national memorial service is held at

the National Cemetery to honor and
commemorate the achievements of war
heroes and veterans

15th day of the 8th lunar month, celebrated for 3 days), Buddhas

Memorial Day

Liberation Day

Celebrates the 1945 liberation of Korea from

Japanese colonial rule.

Chuseok

Known by different names such as Chuseok

and Hangawi, this seasonal festival on the
15th day of the 8th lunar month brings
families together for memorial services for
their ancestors and celebratory events.

National
Foundation Day

Commemorates the foundation of Gojoseon,

the first Korean state, by Dangun in 2333
BCE.

Korea is a country where all the worlds major religions,

Hangeul Day

Marks the invention and promulgation of

Hunminjeongeum (Hangeul), the Korean
writing system.

with shamanism. Given the great diversity of religious expression,

Oct 9

Dec 25

Christmas

Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with a

great variety of religious and secular events.

Jan 1

the foundation of Gojoseon, the first state of the Korean nation,

on the 3rd day of 10th lunar month, 2333 BCE; and Hangeul Day

May 5

Jun 6

Aug 15

Aug 15

Oct 3

(Hangeullal, October 9), which commemorates the invention and

proclamation of the Korean writing system.

The public holidays during which work is suspended by law in

celebrated for 3 days), Chuseok (Mid-autumn Festival on the
Birthday (on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month), Childrens Day
(May 5), Memorial Day (June 6) and Christmas Day. There are
fifteen public holidays in total on which businesses are closed by
law and employees have a day off, from which Constitution Day
is excluded.

Religion
Christianity, Buddhism, Confucianism and Islam, peacefully coexist
the role of religion in South Korea's social development has been
complex; and some traditions are best understood as important
cultural properties rather than as rites of worship. According to
the 2005 statistics, 53% of the Korean population has a religion,

28

the earliest public displays of Korean resistance against the

while the 2008 statistics show that there were over 510 religious

Japanese occupation of Korea, and the promulgation of the

organizations in Korea. Among them Buddhism and Confucianism

Constitution of the Republic of Korea in 1948; Liberation Day

have been more influential than any others upon the life of
29

Diversity in Religious Life

Now rapidly on its way to
becoming a multi-ethnic,
multi-cultural, and multireligious society, Korea
protects religious diversity
by law. People in Korea
are free to lead a religious
life according to their own
choice and convictions,
whether as followers of
one of the major religions,
namely, Christianity,
Buddhism, Confucianism,
and Islam, or as adherents
of Korean native religions
such Won Buddhism and
Cheondogyo.

the Korean people and over half of the countrys listed cultural
heritage are related with the two religions. Since its arrival in
Korea in 372, Buddhism has produced several tens of thousands
temples across the country and currently has more adherents
than any other religion.
Adopted as the state ideology of the Joseon Dynasty (13921910), Confucianism was more a system of ethics than religion
and stressed the importance of loyalty, filial piety and other
virtues. Confucian followers also valued ancestral worship in
the belief that the ancestral spirits can affect the life of their
descendants, and tried to find auspicious sites for the graves
of their ancestors. Today, however, more and more people are
turning from the practice of burial to cremation.
Catholicism was introduced to Korea from China through
the envoys of late Joseon who visited Beijing and the Western
priests who followed them. The early Roman Catholics in Korea

Size of Religious Groups

1
2

1. Chungdong First
Methodist Church in Seoul
Koreas first Protestant
church founded in 1897.
2. Lotus Lantern Festival
The festival celebrates
the birth of Shakyamuni
Buddha on the 8th day of
the 4th lunar month.

30

Buddhism 43%
10,726,000

Others 1.9%
483,000

Protestantism 34.5%
8,616,000

2005

Roman Catholic 20.6%

5,146,000

Others include Confucianism, Won Buddhism, Jeungsangyo, Cheondogyo, Daejonggyo and Islam.
(Source: Statistics Korea)

31

The Seoul Central Mosque

in Itaewon, Seoul

The interior of Myeongdong

Cathedral in Seoul

32

were subjected to severe persecution, but the religion continued

formed on the basis of the Eastern Learning (Donghak) of the

to spread among the common people across the country. The

19th century, maintains the doctrine that Man is Heaven, which

persecution of Christian believers by Joseons rulers led Korea to

exerted a strong influence upon the process of modernization

yield the worlds fourth largest number of Christian saints.

in Korea. Daejonggyo, established in the early 20th century

Protestantism was brought to Korea during the late 19th

to worship Dangun, the founder of the first Korean state, also

century by North American missionaries, and quickly won

affected the life of ordinary Korean people, boosting Korean

peoples hearts through school education and medical services.

nationalism. In 1955, there appeared the Islamic Society of Korea

Even today, Protestants in Korea operate a great number of

and the first Korean Imam, followed by the foundation of the

educational institutions, middle and high schools, colleges and

Korean Muslim Federation in 1967. Islam currently has about

universities, and medical centers.

60 places of worship across Korea and there are about 100,000

In Korea there is a rich array of native religions such as

Korean Muslims. In addition to the major religions, shamanism

Cheondogyo, Won Buddhism and Daejonggyo which, although

has also played an important part in the daily life of the Korean

suffered various vicissitudes of modern Korean history, are still

people, trying to help them connect with the spiritual world and

active in increasing the number of their adherents. Cheondogyo,

making predictions about their future.

33

Society

South Korea Summary

Education, Research, and Industry
Labor and Social Welfare System
Transformation into a Multicultural Society

Russia

China

Society

Baekdusan

South Korea Summary

Geographical and Topographical Features

Myohyangsan

The Korean Peninsula (lat. 33 - 43; long. 124 - 132) lies in the
middle of Northeast Asia, flanked by China to its west and Japan
to its east. The peninsula is 950km long longitudinally and 540km

Pyeongyang
Geumgangsan

wide latitudinally, and has a total area of 223,405km2, of which

East Sea

South Korea occupies about 100,266.2km2. The northern end

Seoraksan

of the peninsula is joined to the Asian Continent. The peninsula

Gaeseong
Baengnyeongdo

is predominantly mountainous, with flat land accounting for

Ganghwado Seoul
Incheon

Ulleungdo
Taebaeksan

Dokdo

only 30% of the entire territory. Mountains over 1,000m above

sea level make up only 15% of the mountainous areas, while
mountains lower than 500m account for 65%.

West Sea
Daejeon

South Korea Overview

Gwangju

Busan

Ko
re
a

Ulsan
Jirisan

St
ra
it

Daegu

Geojedo
Scale

Legend

Jindo

Demarcation line
Capital
City
Mountain

Standard Time: 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time

Population: 51.141 million (2013)

National Anthem: Aegukga

Political System: Free democracy; Presidential system

National Flag: Taegeukgi

President: Park Geun-hye (since 2013)

National Flower: Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon)

Economic Indicator (2013)

Language: Korean; Hangeul

- GDP: US$1,304.3 billion

Land Size: 223,405km2 (including North Korea)

- Per Capital GNI: US$26,205

Jeju Strait

South Korea only: 100,266.2km2

Geographical Location: The Korean Peninsula

Hallasan
Jejudo

36

Country Name: Republic of Korea

Capital City: Seoul (since 1394)

- GDP growth rate: 3.0%

- Currency: won (US$1 = 1,095 won; floating exchange rate)

(lat. 33- 43; long. 124- 132)

Japan
37

The Taebaeksan Mountain Range forms the backbone of the

the western and southern coasts of South Korea. Many beaches

peninsula, with the eastern part of the range rising higher than

around the peninsula boast beautiful scenery and world-class

the western part. Rivers, both small and large, originate from the

facilities.

high mountainous areas in the east and flow toward the West and
South Seas, forming plains suitable for grain cultivation. The climate

Changes in Weather around the Year

created by the mountainous areas in the east has an impact on

The Korean Peninsula belongs to a temperate zone. There are

peoples lives. The easterly winds passage across the mountainous

marked changes in climate between the four distinct seasons.

areas is subject to the Foehn effect, creating a warm and dry wind

Under the influence of the continental climate, there is a

in the western downwind side of the mountain range. People

considerable difference in temperature between summer and

living in the areas to the east of the high mountains experience

winter. It is hot and humid in summer, and cold and dry in winter.

considerable inconveniences with regard to transportation, as these

Over the past thirty years, the summer temperature range has

areas have undergone very little development compared to the

averaged 20.5 - 26.1C, while the winter temperature range has

area to the west of the high mountains. However, the slow pace of

averaged -2.5 - 5.7C.

development has brought at least one advantage to local residents:

Many Koreans take their summer holidays during this

the natural sceneries have remained unspoilt and many people

period. During the peak season, the number of visitors to well-

now choose these areas as travel destinations.

known beaches, including Haeundae in Busan, Gyeongpodae in

The East Sea has a relatively straight, featureless coastline,

38

Gangneung, and Daecheon on the West Sea, exceeds 1 million.

and the difference between high and low tide is only 30 cm.

In winter, people enjoy skating and skiing across the country.

However, the sea along the coast is generally deeper than

There are many ski slopes in Gangwon-do. Winter snowfall in the

1,000m. According to the result of a sonar measurement

mountainous areas of Gangwon-do sometimes reaches 50 - 60 cm

carried out by the Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic

in a day or two. The average daytime temperature in spring and

Administration, the deepest part of the East Sea lies in the area

fall is maintained at 15 - 18C. In these seasons, the sky is clear

north of Ulleungdo Island (2,985m deep). In contrast, the sea

and the weather is pleasant and agreeable, encouraging many

along the West Sea is shallow, which has led to the formation

people to engage in outdoor activities or go on a trip.

of wide tidal flats. The deepest part of the West Sea is in the

Recently, the Korean Peninsula has shown signs of transition

waters surrounding Gageodo Island, Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do

to a subtropical climate amid the phenomenon of global warming.

(124m deep). The rise and fall of the tide shows a considerable

In summer, the temperature rises above 35C. In spring, azaleas

difference, i.e. by as much as 7 - 8 m. The South coast has a heavily

and forsythias bloom earlier than in the past. Over the past 2 - 3

indented rias coastline. About 3,000 mainly small islands lie off

years, many new and extraordinary climate-related records have

39

been reported. In December 2010, a cold wave hit the peninsula

for 39 days, lasting well into January of the following year. Heavy
snowfall hit Donghae and Pohang, breaking a 79-year-old record.
In July 2011, the heavy rain concentrated on Seoul and its vicinity
was recorded as the heaviest daily rainfall in the meteorological
history of the country.
According to climate observation records, the average
temperature in the Korean Peninsula has risen by 1.5C over the
past century. Only ten years ago, it was usual for cold and warm

1
2
3
4

Four Seasons of Korea

1. Spring of Baraebong
in Jirisan Mountain
2. Summer of Garibong
Valley in Seoraksan
Mountain
3. Autumn of Gayasan
Mountain
4. Winner of Jeseokbong
Peak in Jirisan Mountain
(Source: Korea National Park)

weather to succeed each other on the peninsula every three or

four days, but that pattern has disappeared.
The northern limit line for the growth of tree and plant species
such as apple trees and green tea plants is moving gradually
northward. The presence of more subtropical fish along the
coast of the Korean Peninsula constitutes further proof of global
warming. Researchers started observing coral reefs in the sea near
Busan. The number of subtropical marine plants is increasing in
the sea near Jejudo Island.
Population
Archaeologists think that people started settling in the Korean
Peninsula around B.C.700,000, during the Paleolithic Age. The
population of South Korea stands at 51.14 million (2013), with
49.4% of the population concentrated in Seoul and its vicinity.
The government views the current low birthrate as a serious
problem. The countrys birthrate fell to 1.08 per married couple
(2005), a record low. The figure rose slightly to 1.19 by 2013
through the governments efforts. Still, the figure falls short of
the global average (1.71 in 2012). As for life expectancy, South
40

41

Koreans life expectancy was approximately 81.3 years (2010)

It can express virtually all the sounds produced by nature and

compared with an OECD average of 80.2 years.

humans. Every year, UNESCO presents the King Sejong Literacy

Towards the end of the 19th century and throughout the early

Prize to people who have made a distinguished contribution

20th century, a large number of Koreans left the country. Initially,

to the elimination of illiteracy. The inclusion of King Sejong in

China, Russia, and the United States were their chief destinations,

the name of the prize may be said to be tacit recognition of his

but by the mid-20th century the destinations had become far more

greatest accomplishment, the creation of Hangeul, which is easy

diverse. The number of South Koreans living in foreign countries

to learn and use.

amounts to 7.26 million, i.e. 2.7 million in China, 1.67 million in the
United States, 0.9 million in Japan, and 0.53 million in EU countries.

National Flag (Taegeukgi)

Since 2011, the net inflow of population has outnumbered the

The national flag of South Korea is composed of a red and blue

net outflow. The number of foreign nationals residing or working

taegeuk pattern in the center and four black trigrams at each

in the country has increased dramatically, particularly since 2000.

corner, against a white background.

According to Statistics Korea, 369,000 foreign nationals arrived

The white background symbolizes brightness, purity, and peace-

in the country in 2013. Regarding the purpose of their arrival in

loving ethnic characteristics. The taegeuk pattern symbolizes yin

the country, employment (41.4%) topped the list, followed by

and yang (i.e. the idea that all things in the universe are created and

short-term stay (19.8%), long-term or permanent stay (6.4%),

evolve through the interaction of yin and yang). The four trigrams

sightseeing (6.0%), and study (5.2%). Recently, many foreigners

indicate the changes in and development of yin and yang by means

have come to the country for such diverse purpose as marriage to

of their combination ( represents yin while represents

South Koreans, work, and study, etc.

yang;

[geongwae] heaven;

water; and
Language and Letters
Most linguists place Korean in the Altaic language family, though

[gongwae] earth;

[gamgwae]

King Sejong the Great

Sejong was the fourth
king of the Joseon
Dynasty. He made many
great accomplishments
in the spheres of science,
economy, defense, art
and culture. One of his
greatest accomplishments
was the creation of
Hangeul in 1444, an easyto-learn, efficient, and
scientific writing system.
He is respected as one
of the countrys greatest
kings among Koreans.

[igwae] fire. The four trigrams surrounding the

taegeuk represent unity.

The national flag, including the taegeuk pattern,

some consider it to be a language isolate, meaning that it cannot

which our ancestors liked to use in their lives,

be simply related with any other language. The written form of

expresses the ideal of the Korean nations

Korean uses Hangeul, a writing system commissioned by King

pursuit of creativity and prosperity.

Sejong (1397-1450) during the Joseon Dynasty. Koreans are very

proud of this remarkable achievement, and Hangeul is a very

National Anthem (Aegukga)

efficient and easy script to learn and use.

The countrys national anthem was composed

Hangeul is composed of fourteen consonants and ten vowels.

42

in 1935 by Mr. Ahn Eak-tai, who added a melody

43

Shanghai Expo 2010

The South Korean Pavilion
decorated with Hangeul
consonants and vowels

44

45

to lyrics written in the early 1900s. It was officially adopted with

the establishment of the government of the Republic of Korea in

National Symbol

August 1948. Prior to that, the country sang the same lyrics to
Geon
(Sky)

Gam
(Water)

the melody of Auld Lang Syne as the national anthem.

National Flower (Mugunghwa)

Red:Yang

The Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) is thought to be deeply

Blue:Eum

associated with what are regarded as the most typical Korean

Ri
(Fire)

Gon
(Earth)

characteristics: a sincere heart, inwardness, and tenacity. Around

the late 9th century, the Chinese referred to Korea as the

National flower: Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon)

National flag: Taegeukgi

country of mugunghwa. The Korean word mugunghwa literally

means a never-withering flower. The countrys national anthem

Aegukga: Patriotic Song (National Anthem)

includes the line: Three thousand ri of splendid rivers and

Ahn Eak-tai

Moderato

mountains covered with mugunghwa blossoms. The emblem of

the government and the National Assembly contains the shape of

Until that day when the waters of the East Sea run dry and Baekdusan Mountain is worn away,

a mugunghwa.
Political System
The country has adopted a Presidential system in which the

God protect and preserve our nation; Hurry to Korea

President is elected by the direct vote of the people for a fiveyear term. The current President Park Geun-hye was elected in
December 2012 for one term, which started on February 25, 2013.
The government is composed of three independent branches: the

Three thousand ri of splendid rivers and mountains covered with mugunghwa blossoms.

Executive branch; the Legislative branch composed of 300 four-year

term members of the National Assembly; and the Judiciary branch,
which includes fourteen six-year term Supreme Court justices.
There are seventeen regional local governments and 227 basic local

Great Korean people, stay true to the Great Korean way!

governments. The heads of the local governments and the members

of local councils are each elected for a four-year term.

46

47

Division

the country achieve rapid economic growth. The basic school

In 1948, the two Koreas established their respective governments.

system is composed of kindergarten (1 to 3 years), elementary

Defined as two different countries under international law, they

school (6 years), middle school (3 years), high school (3 years),

joined the United Nations simultaneously in September 1991.

and university. There are also junior colleges (2 or 3 years) and

The Constitution of South Korea, however, regards North Korea as

graduate schools (for masters and PhD degrees).

part of the Republic of Korea.

Since 2004, all South Koreans are required to finish middle

school under compulsory education. The government started

Education, Research, and Industry

paying childcare allowances for all infants aged up to 5 in 2013.

Education System
Koreans regard education as very important. In the process of
industrialization, human resources emerged as an important
factor in connection with the need to cope with scarce capital

Korean style education will create a whirlwind of popularity as K-Pop does.

and resources more efficiently. Parents fervor regarding their

childrens education has resulted in the production of a large
number of well-educated people, which in turn has helped

U.S. President Barack Obama often refers to Korean parents

fervent eagerness about their children's education to urge
American parents to make more strenuous efforts. It is
reported that the innovation campaign initiated by President
Obama in 2009 for the invigoration of education in science,

Number of Schools in Korea (2013)

skills, engineering, and math for American middle and

8,678

high school students was modelled on the South Korean

experience. The most successful case of introducing Koreanstyle education into the United States is the Democracy Prep

5,913

Charter School in New York. About 80% of the students of this school in Harlem, New York, which
is notorious for its high rate of narcotics and crimes, originate from low-income households.

3,173
2,322

Principal Seth Andrew (34) of this school taught English for one year in South Korea and saw that
1,200
162

140

Koreans believed that the only way out of poverty is education. He decided to make sure that
students of his school hold a similar belief and show respect for both teachers and education just

200

as Koreans do. Such efforts on his part have brought about noticeable results in six years.
Kindergarten

Middle School

Elementary
School

Special School

High
School

University
Junior
College

Graduate
School

Unit: schools / Source: Ministry of Education

48

In 2010, his school was selected as the best among the 125 charter schools in New York in
2010 -2011 in a school performance appraisal. Seth Andrews said, I am sure that Korean-style
education will create a whirlwind of popularity as K-Pop does.

49

High Educational Competitiveness

A Digital Reading Room

at the National Library
of Korea
This is a space where
people can access and
use a vast corpus of
digital materials, and
engage in media editing,
documentation, and
research.

Thanks to a good system and the high regard for education, the
country has many skilled people in virtually all sectors. Koreas
universities produce talented young people specializing in
basic science, including physics, and other major sectors, such
International Science
Olympiad
In this international
middle and high school
students' competition
encompassing math,
physics, chemistry,
biology, astronomy,
and information, South
Koreans record a good
score every year.

as electronics, mechanical engineering, business management,

economics, and accounting. Many educated adults can make
themselves understood in English, with some of them speaking
another foreign language. At present, the widespread availability
of vocational education sessions at high schools helps students
obtain qualifications in specialty areas.
According to the OECDs Programme for International Student
Assessment (PISA), South Korean students display a high level of

Sophisticated Information Society

academic achievement in reading, math, and science.

South Korea is a leading powerhouse in information and

communication technology. It is a country full of dynamism.

R&D Investment

It became the first country in the world to commercialize the

South Korea has a large number of talented people engaged in

CDMA and WiBro technologies and established a nationwide

cutting-edge research. At government institutes, in universities,

network based on the use of these technologies in 2011. The

and also within Koreas many world-leading corporations, a

country has also made Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB)

vast range of projects are undertaken: from basic research to

part of peoples daily lives, while establishing a nationwide 4G

the development of advanced technologies and innovative new

communication long-term evolution (LTE) network.

commercial products.

50

These sophisticated information and communication

The government R&D budget supports programs in a wide

technologies have led to changes in diverse social sectors,

variety of sectors, including high-end convergence, green

including the innovation of government administration. With the

resources, bioscience, welfare, and machine parts.

help of such advanced technologies, the procedures for reporting

A remarkable 12.4 out of ever 1,000 economically active

a babys birth, moving home or registering a persons death are

people were employed as researchers in 2012, a total of more

handled more efficiently. Under the Social Networking Service

than 401,724; and their activities result in numerous patent

(SNS), people now use an interactive communication system

applications, both at home and abroad.

in which the government provides useful information to people

Social Network Service

This service, which is
represented by Twitter,
Cyworld, and Facebook, is
designed to help people
build a solid network of
collaboration between
friends, colleagues, and
acquaintances.

51

United Nations E-Government Survey

while members of the public can report cases of inconvenience

to the government. The country exported e-government-related
technologies worth US$873.18 million between 2002 and 2012.
In the biennial e-government evaluation conducted by the
UN, South Korea ranked No. 1 in terms of comprehensive scores
in 2010 and 2012 among the 193 countries evaluated. The
country took first place in development indices associated with
information/communication infrastructure and human resources

2005

2008

2010

2012

2014

5th

6th

1st

1st

1st

Online services

0.97(4th)

0.82(6th)

1.00(1st)

1.00(1st)

0.97(3rd)

Information/communication
infrastructure

0.67(9th)

0.69(10th)

0.64(13th)

0.83(7th)

0.93(2nd)

Relevant capital

0.98(10th)

0.98(7th)

0.99(7th)

0.94(6th)

0.92(6th)

4th

2nd

1st

1st

1st

E-government
development index

Online participation index

(Source: UN DESA)

as well as in peoples online participation.

With the improvement of sophisticated communication

52

infrastructures and the increase in the number of mobile

In South Korea, the development of creative good-quality

communication devices, people can engage in real-time

cultural products, in which human resources are combined with

communication and exchange of information with others

cultural resources, is viewed as an industrial sector that will

worldwide. Social Networking Services such as Twitter and

play a leading role in the 21st century. Current examples of the

Facebook are bringing about revolutionary changes in society.

countrys promising cultural products include K-Pop, TV dramas

Especially, the SNS Kakao Talk (global mobile instant messenger)

(e.g. Dae Jang Geum), and TV animations for infants (e.g. Pororo).

developed in South Korea in 2010 has been attracting

According to the United Nations Development Programme

considerable attention. The number of Kakao Talk subscribers

(UNDP), the countrys Human Development Index (HDI) is rising,

stands at 100 million worldwide. It is used by most South Korean

apparently as a result of the growing emphasis on investment

smart phone users. Pop Cast, another form of SNS, is establishing

and the development of human resources as key actors of

a new area in the communication (broadcasting) sector. Now,

creative industrial sectors. The Human Development Index (HDI)

SNS even exerts an influence in politics through the formation of

is a composite statistic of the life expectancy, education, and

public opinion, in addition to its inherent functions such as the

income indices used to rank countries into four tiers of human

delivery of information or entertainment.

development.)

Changes and Vision

Labor and Social Welfare System

South Korea is rapidly changing into a knowledge-based society.

Social Security System

Human resources are regarded as the most important element of

South Korea operates a labor and welfare system that meets

society and as a primary source of national competitiveness.

international norms. Workers three basic rights are guaranteed.

Administrative Agencies
Information System
Information/
communication
technologies help
administrative agencies
carry out their
assignments more
efficiently by providing
information services
relating to individual
sectors such as customs
clearance, patents, budget
accounting, disaster
management, immigration
control, mail classification,
response to public
complaints, employment,
transportation, residents
registration, etc.

53

by other countries.

Pororo, the countrys

representative character
for infants, plays a leading
role in the progress of the
countrys future cultural
industry by introducing a
variety of products using
educational animations
and characters.

Workers subscribe to Employment Insurance. When a

subscribed worker is dismissed, he/she is entitled to half of his/
her wage for a given period of time and to job transfer training.
Workers also subscribe to retirement pension and national
pension plans.
All people are required to subscribe to the four social
insurances (i.e. industrial accident, health, employment, and
pension insurances). As regards the payment of insurance
premiums, employers and the government bear part of the fees.
People pay insurance fees according to their income, which leads
to income redistribution.
The aim of the countrys public welfare system is from the
Public officials also have their basic rights guaranteed as workers

cradle to the grave. A pregnant worker is eligible for 90 days

despite some restrictions on their right of collective action.

maternity leave, 60 days of which are paid leave, she is also

In the 1980s, the country adopted the minimum wage system in

entitled to take a year of temporary leave for childcare, receiving

an effort to enhance workers rights. The country has also enacted

part of her wage. In 2013, the government also started paying

the Equal Employment Opportunity Act and a system that assists

childcare allowances to parents with an infant aged 5 or less.

the disabled.

With the increase in the number of senior citizens, welfare for

The country operates the social insurance system against

the elderly has emerged as an important social issue. The country

contingencies relating to disaster, disease, unemployment, and

adopted long-term care insurance for the elderly and the basic

death. Workers subscribe to Industrial Accident Insurance against

old age pension system.

work-related accident, disease or death. It is obligatory for all

The Four Social

Insurances
Relevant individuals,
businesses, and the
government share the
burden of insurance
premiums for the four
social insurances.

54

people to subscribe to the Health Insurance. As of 2014, end of

Role of Women

June, 50.14 million people (including foreigners), i.e. 98.5% of the

Samguk yusa (Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms) compiled by

entire population, enjoyed the benefits provided under the state-

the Buddhist Monk Iryeon in 1281 contains a very interesting

run health insurance system. The countrys medical insurance

myth about the birth of the first Korean woman. It says that

system, which provides a high-quality medical service for

a bear morphed into the first Korean woman after fulfilling a

reasonable service fees, has been appraised as an exemplary case

difficult task given by a god, of which the bear endured twenty55

one days of feeding only on mugwort and garlic without any

became the first woman President in South Koreas 65-year history.

exposure to sunshine. The woman eventually married Hwanung,

the son of god, and gave birth to a son named Dangun, who is

Transformation into a Multicultural Society

the forefather of the Korean people. This founding myth of Korea

South Korea has long been a culturally homogeneous society,

illustrates the main characteristics of Korean women, which are

but the number of migrant workers and foreign students has

said to be patience and tenacity.

increased rapidly since the end of the 20th century. As of 2014,

In the 1st century BC, a heroine named Soseono played

the number of foreign-born people in the country stands at 1.57

a critical role in the foundation of Goguryeo and Baekje

million, with the number of foreign-born people married to South

Kingdoms. In the early 7th century, Queen Seondeok of Silla

Koreans amounting to 240,000. The number of migrant workers

accomplished many notable deeds, including the stabilization

in the country stands at 850,000. The country is turning into a

of ordinary peoples lives, the provision of relief to the poor, and

multicultural society.

the construction of Cheomseongdae Observatory and the nine-

Ethnic Koreans with Chinese citizenship account for the

tier pagoda at Hwangnyongsa Temple. In the early 10th century,

greatest proportion of foreign nationals living in the country.

Queen Sinhye, the wife of King Taejo of Goryeo, distinguished

Recently, the number of multicultural households has increased

herself by assisting the King with the establishment important

dramatically to 230,000, largely as a result of the high number

national policies. Sin Saimdang of Joseon, who lived in the early

of marriages between Koreans and foreigners. The government

16th century, is respected as an exemplar of the wise mother

launched an office dedicated to providing support for foreign

and good wife. Her portrait features on 50,000won banknotes.

citizens social activities within the country and enacted

Yu Gwan-sun lost her life at the age of 18 after being tortured by

the Multicultural Families Support Act. Under the said Act,

the Japanese police following her arrest for involvement in the

multicultural family support centers (www.liveinkorea.kr) have

independence movement in March 1919. She is regarded as one

been opened in 200 places around the country to provide the

of Koreas leading patriots.

following services: Korean language education sessions designed

Foreigners who visited Korea towards the end of the 19th

to help foreigners adapt to life in Korea; psychological counseling;

century and in the early 20th century wrote that Korean

events intended to celebrate the festivities of other countries; and

women enjoyed a considerably higher social status than their

job seeking opportunities.

counterparts in nearby countries.

56

The government is taking diverse measures in recognition

In 2001, South Korea became the first country to launch a

of foreign cultures and making efforts to avoid social problems

Ministry of Gender Equality; its name was later changed to the

that may result due to the inflow of foreign cultures. One

Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. In 2013, Park Geun-hye

such measure consists in the provision of support to transform

57

in their adopted country. For example, Jasmine Lee is a FilipinaNationality of foreign residents in South Korea

Korean who is currently serving as a member of the Gender

Equality and Family Committee of the 19th National Assembly

Others (21.1%)

(May 2012 May 2016). She is known for her efforts to protect

Filipinos (4.1%)

the welfare and advance the rights of people in multicultural

2014

Americans (4.5%)
South Asians
(4.8%)
Vietnamese (11.8%)

Chinese
(including ethnic
Koreans)
(53.7%)

(Source: Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs)

households.
As of November 2013, a total of fifty-six foreign-born Koreans
from thirteen countries are serving as public officials with the
central or local governments. Chinese-Korean Kim Mi-hwa, an
official of Changwon City, is one of them. The foreign-born
celebrities we frequently see in local TV programs include Robert
Holley (American-Korean) and Sam Hammington (an Australian).

multicultural villages into tourist destinations.

All things considered, the recent foreign arrivals are integrating

Chinatown in Seollin-dong in Incheon is perhaps the most

well into South Korean society, and multiculturalism is bringing

representative example of a unique foreign culture in Korea. The

many benefits: there is every indication that this harmonious

history of the place began when ethnic Chinese settled there,

coexistence of diverse cultures will continue to flourish.

taking advantage of its geographical proximity to China, in the

late 19th century. Nowadays, the area serves as a forward base
for the countrys exchanges with China, and has emerged as a
new tourist destination for enthusiasts of history and culture.
There is a Special Multicultural Zone in Wongok-dong, Ansan,
Gyeonggi-do. People from China, India and Pakistan living here
can purchase specialties of their home countries in the zone.
There is a Japanese village in Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul; a
Muslim village near the mosque in Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu,
Seoul; a French village (Seorae Village) in Banpo-dong, Gangnamgu, Seoul; a Vietnamese town is in Wangsimni, Seoul; and a
Nepalese town in Changsin-dong, Seoul.
Foreigners are also starting to take a more prominent role
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59

Culture

UNESCO Heritage in Korea

Traditional Arts
Hallyu (Korean Wave)

Koreas vibrant cultural legacy, comprising music, art, literature,

Culture

combination of tradition and modernity, and is now appreciated

in many parts of the world.

dance, architecture, clothing and cuisine, offers a delightful

At the present time, Korean arts and culture are attracting

many enthusiasts around the world. Koreas cultural and artistic
achievements through the ages are now leading many of its

62

Since the earliest settlements on the Korean Peninsula and in

young talents to the worlds most prestigious music and dance

southeastern Manchuria during prehistoric times, the people

competitions, while its literary works are being translated into

of Korea have developed a distinctive culture based on their

many different languages for global readers. More recently, Korean

unique artistic sensibility. The geographical conditions of the

pop artists have attracted huge numbers of admirers across

peninsula provided Koreans with opportunities to receive

the world, the most spectacular success being Psys global hit

both continental and maritime cultures and ample resources,

Gangnam Style.

which in turn enabled them to form unique cultures of interest

The cultural prosperity Korea has enjoyed lately would

to and value for the rest of humanity, both then and now.

have not been possible without its traditional culture and arts,

Gyeongju Historic Areas

Gyeongju was the capital
of Silla for about one
millennium. The city still
contains a wealth of
archaeological remains
from the Kingdom, and
hence is often dubbed as
a museum without walls
or roof. The photo shows
a scene of the Silla mound
tombs located in the city.

63

which were built on the Korean peoples traits of tenacity and

listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

perseverance combined with an artistic sensibility that has

A l t h o u g h i t wa s b u i l t d u r i n g t h e J o s e o n P e r i o d ,

matured throughout the countrys long history. The unique

Changdeokgung shows traces of the influence of the

artistic sensibility reflected in the diverse artifacts and tomb

architectural tradition of Goryeo, such as its location at the foot

murals of the Three Kingdoms Period became richer and more

of a mountain. Royal palaces were typically built according to

profound as Korea progressed through the periods of Unified

a layout planned to highlight the dignity and authority of its

Silla (676-935), Goryeo (918-1392) and Joseon (1392-1910).

occupant, but the layout of Changdeokgung was planned to

This aesthetic sensibility has been handed down through the

make the most of the characteristic geographical features of the

generations to the Korean artists, and even ordinary members of

skirt of Bugaksan Mountain. The original palace buildings have

the public, of our time.

been preserved intact, including Donhwamun Gate, its main

Korea preserves a wealth of priceless cultural heritage, some

entrance, Injeongjeon Hall; Seonjeongjeon Hall, and a beautiful

of which have been inscribed on the lists of human legacies

traditional garden to the rear of the main buildings. The palace

protected by UNESCO. Currently, a total of thirty-eight Korean

also contains Nakseonjae, a compound of exquisite traditional

heritage items are listed either as World Heritage Sites or

buildings set up in the mid-19th century as a residence for

Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, or

members of the royal family.

Injeongjeon Hall in
Changdeokgung Palace
The Palace Hall was used
for important state events
such as the Coronation
of Kings, royal audiences,
and formal reception of
foreign envoys.

have been included on UNESCOs Memory of the World Register.

UNESCO Heritage in Korea

World Heritage Sites
Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace, located in Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu,
Seoul, is one of the five Royal Palaces of Joseon (1392-1910),
and still contains the original palace structures and other remains
intact. It was built in 1405 as a Royal Villa but became the Joseon
Dynastys official Royal Residence after Gyeongbokgung, the
original principal palace, was destroyed by fire in 1592 when
Japanese forces invaded Korea. Thereafter it maintained its
prestigious position until 1867, when Gyeongbokgung was and
renovated and restored to its original status. Changdeokgung was
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65

Jongmyo Shrine

features, including the two shrine halls which exhibit the unique

Jongmyo, located in Hunjeong-dong, Jongno-gu in Seoul, is the

architectural style of the 16th century. Seasonal memorial rites

royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It was

commemorating the life and achievements of the royal ancestors

built to house eighty-three spirit tablets of the Joseon Kings, their

of Joseon are still performed at the shrine.

Queen Consorts, and direct ancestors of the dynastys founder

Jongmyo Shrine
The central Confucian
shrine of Joseon housing
the spirit tablets of Joseon
Kings and their Consorts

who were posthumously invested with royal titles. As Joseon was

Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon

founded according to Confucian ideology, its rulers considered

Located in todays Jangan-gu of Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do,

it very important to put Confucian teachings into practice and

Hwaseong is a large fortress (its walls extend for 5.7km) built

sanctify the institutions where ancestral memorial tablets were

in 1796 during the reign of King Jeongjo (r. 1776-1800) of the

enshrined.

Joseon Dynasty. Construction of the fortress was begun after

The two main buildings at the Royal Shrine, Jeongjeon Hall

the King moved the grave of his father, Crown Prince Sado,

and Yeongnyeongjeon Hall exhibit a fine symmetry, and there

from Yangju in Gyeonggi-do to its current location near the

are differences in the height of the raised platform, the height

fortress. The fortification is elaborately and carefully designed

to the eaves and the roof top, and the thickness of the columns

to effectively perform its function of protecting the city

according to their status. The entire sanctuary retains its original

enclosed within it. The construction of the fortress and related

facilities involved the use of scientific devices developed by the
distinguished Confucian thinker and writer Jeong Yak-yong (17621836), including the Geojunggi (type of crane) and Nongno
(pulley wheel) used to lift heavy building materials such as stones.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple
Seokguram, located on the middle slopes of Tohamsan Mountain
in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is a Buddhist hermitage with an
artificial stone cave built in 774 to serve as a dharma hall. The hall
houses an image of seated Buddha surrounded by his guardians
and followers carved in relief, which is widely admired as a great
masterpiece. The cave faces east and is designed so that the
principal Buddha receives the first rays of the sun rising from the
East Sea on his head.

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67

Completed the same year as Seokguram Grotto, Bulguksa

Temple consists of exquisite prayer halls and various monuments,
including two stone pagodas, Dabotap and Seokgatap, standing in
the front courtyard of the temples main prayer hall, Daeungjeon.
The two pagodas are widely regarded as the finest extant Silla
pagodas: the first is admired for its elaborately carved details, the
second for its delightfully simple structure.
Dabotap, or the Pagoda of Abundant Treasures, is marked by
a unique structure built with elaborately carved granite blocks. It
also features on the face of the Korean 10 won coin. By contrast,
Seokgatap, or the Pagoda of Shakyamuni, is better known for its
delightfully simple structure which exhibits fine symmetry and
balance. The pagoda is now generally regarded as the archetype of
all the three-story stone pagodas built across Korea thereafter.
Among the other treasures preserved at the temple are the

1
2
3

1. Hwaseong Fortress
in Suwon
This 18th century
fortification was built
on the basis of the most
advanced knowledge
and techniques known
to both East and West
at that time.
2. Bulguksa Temple
This Silla temple
established in the 6th
century is architecturally
known for being one
of the finest examples
of Buddhist doctrine
anywhere in the world.
3, 4. Seokguram Grotto
The principal Buddha
seated on a lofty lotus
pedestal at the center
of the grotto

two exquisite stone bridges, Cheongungyo (Blue Cloud Bridge)

and Baegungyo (White Cloud Bridge), leading to Daeungjeon, the
temples principal dharma hall. The bridges symbolize the journey
every Buddhist needs to make to reach the Pure Land of Bliss.
Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
The Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) left behind a total of fortyfour tombs of its Kings and their Queen Consorts, most of which
are located in and around the capital area including the cities
of Guri, Goyang and Namyangju in Gyeonggi-do. Some of these
Royal Tombs are arranged in small groups in the Donggureung,
Seooreung, Seosamneung and Hongyureung. Of these, forty
tombs are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Royal Tombs of Joseon are highly regarded as tangible
68

69

heritage that reflect the values held by the Korean people, which

1
2
3

were drawn from Confucian ideology and the feng shui tradition.

1. Donggureung
A complex of Royal Tombs
built for nine Joseon
Kings and their seventeen
Queens and Concubines.
2. Yeongneung
The tomb of King Sejong
and his consort Queen
Soheon
3. Mongneung
The tomb of King Seonjo
and his consort Queen
Inmok

These historical remains are also valued highly for having been
preserved in their original condition for anywhere from one to six
hundred years.
Janggyeongpanjeon Depositories of Haeinsa Temple, Hapcheon
The Printing Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana, which was
made during the Goryeo Period (918-1392), are housed in two
depositories specially made for that purpose in 1488 at Haeinsa
Temple. As the oldest remaining buildings at the temple, the
Tripitaka depositories are marked by the uniquely scientific and
highly effective method of controlling ventilation and moisture to
ensure the safe storage of the age-old woodblocks. The buildings
were built side by side at the highest point (about 700m above
sea level) in the precincts of Haeinsa Temple, which is located on
the mid-slope of Gayasan Mountain.

Stone Warrior, Guardian of the Royal Tombs

Each of the royal tombs of Joseon consists of one or more
semispherical mounds protected with curb stones set around the
base, and with elaborately carved stone railings and stone animals,
including a lamb and a tiger in particular, representing meekness
and ferocity. In the front area there is a rectangular stone table that
was used for offering sacrifices to the spirits of the royalty buried
there, a tall octagonal stone pillar, a stone lantern, one or more
pairs of stone guardians, and civil and military officials, with their
horses. The mound is further protected by a low wall standing at the back and on both sides.

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71

What makes these depositories so special is their unique

The defensive position of the fortress was reinforced by

design which provides effective natural ventilation by exploiting

exploiting the rugged topography of the mountain (average

the wind blowing in from the valley of Gayasan. Open lattice

height: at least 480m). The perimeter of its wall is about 12.3km.

windows of different sizes are arranged in upper and lower rows

According to a record dating from the Joseon Period, about 4,000

on both the front and rear walls of the depositories to promote

people lived in the town built inside the fortress.

the optimum flow of air from the valley. Similarly, the floor, which

Temporary palaces, Jongmyo Shrine, and Sajikdan Altar were

was built by ramming layers of charcoal, clay, sand, salt and lime

built in the fortress in 1711 during the reign of King Sukjong of

powder, also helps to control the humidity of the rooms.

Joseon. The fortress is also a result of the wide-ranging exchanges

made and wars waged between Korea (Joseon), Japan (Azuchi-

Namhansanseong
Fortress
A mountain fortress that
served as a temporary
capital during the Joseon
Dynasty, showing how the
techniques for building a
fortress developed during
the 7th-19th centuries

Namhansanseong Fortress

Momoyama Period), and China (Ming and Qing) during the

Namhansanseong Fortress, located about 25km southeast of

16th-18th centuries. The introduction of cannons from western

Seoul, underwent large-scale restructuring in 1626, during the

countries brought many changes to the weaponry inside the

reign of King Injo of the Joseon Dynasty, to create a refuge for

fortress and the way the fortress was built. The fortress is a living

the King and his people in the event of a national emergency. The

record of the changes in the way fortresses were built during the

foundations of Jujangseong Fortress, built almost one thousand

7th-19th centuries.

years earlier in 672, during the reign of King Munmu of Unified

Silla, served as the base of the renovated structure.

Hunminjeongeum
Manuscript
The pages shown here
contain a commentary
on the three sounds, first,
middle and last, that form
the sound of a Korean
character

Memory of the World Register

Hunminjeongeum (The Proper Sounds
for the Instruction of the People)
Hangeul is the name of the Korean
writing system and alphabet, which
consists of letters inspired by the shapes
formed by the human vocal organs
during speech, making it very easy to
learn and use. Hangeul was promulgated
in 1446 by King Sejong, who helped
devise it and named it Hunminjeongeum, or The Proper Sounds
for the Instruction of the People. It was also in that same year
that he ordered his scholars to publish The Hunminjeongeum

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73

haeryebon (Explanatory Edition) to provide detailed explanations

depositories (sago), they would not be opened to anyone except

of the purpose and guiding principles of the new writing system.

in special circumstances where it was necessary to refer to

One of these manuscripts is currently in the collection of the

past examples with regard to the formal conduct of important

Kansong Art Museum and was included in UNESCOs Memory of

state ceremonies such as the memorial rites for royal ancestors

the World Register in 1997.

or the reception of foreign envoys. Originally there were four

The invention of the Hunminjeongeum opened up a broad

history depositories, one in the Chunchugwan (Office of State

new horizon for all the Korean people, even women and those

Records) at the Royal Court, and three more in the main regional

in the lowest social class, enabling them to learn to read and

administrative hubs in the south, namely, Chungju, Jeonju and

write and express themselves fully. The Hunminjeongeum

Seongju. However, these were destroyed in 1592 when Japan

alphabet originally consisted of 28 letters, but only 24 are

invaded Korea, and the Joseon Dynasty was compelled to build

used now. In 1989, UNESCO joined the Korean government

new depositories on some of the remotest mountains in the

to create the UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize, which it

country, Myohyangsan, Taebaeksan, Odaesan and Manisan.

awards to organizations or individuals who display great merit

and achieve particularly effective results in contributing to the

Seungjeongwon Ilgi: Diaries of the Royal Secretariat

promotion of literacy.

This collection of documents contains the records of the Joseon

rulers public life and their interactions with the bureaucracy;

Joseon Wangjo Sillok: Annals of the Joseon Dynasty

they were made on a daily basis by the Seungjeongwon, or Royal

The Joseon Dynasty left behind a vast collection of annual records

Secretariat, from the third month of 1623 to the eighth

of Joseon rulers and their officials covering the 472 years from

month of 1910. The records are collected in 3,243

1392 to 1863. The records, Joseon wangjo sillok (Annals of the

volumes and include the details of royal

Joseon Dynasty), comprise 2,077 volumes and are stored at the

edicts, reports and appeals from ministries

Kyujanggak Institute for Korean Studies, Seoul National University.

and other government agencies. The diaries

The annals of each Joseon ruler were usually compiled after

his death during the early phase of his successors rule based

Ilseongnok
Private journals concerning
personal daily activities
and state affairs kept by
the rulers of late Joseon
from 1760 to 1910

are currently kept in the Kyujanggak Institute for

Korean Studies, Seoul National University.

on the daily accounts, called historical drafts (sacho), made by

74

historiographers. The annals are regarded as extremely valuable

Ilseongnok: Daily Records of the Royal Court

historical resources as they contain detailed information about

and Important Officials

the politics, economy, culture and other aspects of Joseon society.

This vast collection of daily records made by

Once the annals had been compiled and placed in the history

the Kings of the late Joseon Period (from 1760

75

to 1910) is compiled in a total of 2,329 volumes. The records

Printing Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana and Miscellaneous

provide vivid and detailed information on the political situation

Buddhist Scriptures

in and around Korea and the ongoing cultural exchanges between

The collection of Tripitaka woodblocks stored at Haeinsa

east and west from the 18th to the 20th century.

Temple (established 802) in Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnamdo was made during the Goryeo Period (918-1392) under a

Uigwe: Royal Protocols of the Joseon Dynasty

national project that started in 1236 and took fifteen years to

This collection of beautifully illustrated books contains

complete. The collection is generally known by the name Palman

official manuals recording the details of Court Ceremonies

Daejanggyeong, literally the Tripitaka of eighty thousand

or events of national importance for the purpose of future

woodblocks, as it consists of 81, 258 blocks of wood.

reference. The most frequently treated subjects in these books

The Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks were made by the people

are Royal Weddings, the investiture of Queens and Crown

of Goryeo who sought the Buddhas magical power to repel the

Princes, State and Royal Funerals, and the construction of

Mongol forces that had invaded and devastated their country in

Royal Tombs, although other state or royal occasions such as

the 13th century. The Tripitaka Koreana is often compared with

the Royal Ploughing, construction or renovation of Palace

other Tripitaka editions produced by the Song, Yuan and Ming

buildings, are included. As for the latter, those published to

Dynasties in China, and has been highly praised for its richer

mark the construction of Hwaseong Fortress

and more complete content. The process of manufacturing the

a n d K i n g Je o n g j o s fo r m a l v i s i t t o

woodblocks played an important role in the development of

the new walled city in the late 18th

printing and publication techniques in Korea.

Tripitaka Koreana
Woodblocks
A total of over 80,000
woodblocks carved
with the entire canon
of Buddhist scriptures
available to Goryeo in
the 13th century

century are particularly famous. These

Protocol on the Marriage

of King Yeongjo and
Queen Jeongsun
(Joseon, 18th century)
This is a manual of the
state ceremony held for
the marriage between
King Yeongjo, the 21st
ruler of Joseon, and Queen
Jeongsun in 1759

76

publications were also stored in the

Human Rights Documentary

history depositories, sadly resulting in

Heritage 1980: Archives of the May 18th

the destruction of early Joseon works by

Democratic Uprising in Gwangju

fire during the Japanese Invasion of Korea

The May 18th Gwangju Uprising was

in 1592. The remaining 3,895 volumes

a popular rebellion that took place in

of Uigwe were published after the war, some of which

the city of Gwangju from May 18 to 27

were stolen by the French Army in 1866 and kept in the

1980, during which Gwangjus citizens

Bibliothque nationale de France until 2011, when they

made a strong plea for democracy in

were returned to Korea following an agreement between the

Korea and actively opposed the then

governments of Korea and France.

military dictatorship. The pro-democracy

77

struggle in Gwangju ended tragically but exerted a powerful

of Joseon as a Confucian state in 1392. Designed to maintain

influence on similar democratic movements that spread across

the social order and promote solidarity, the ritual consists of

East Asia in the 1980s. This UNESCO inscription consists of the

performances of ceremonial orchestral music and dances praising

documents, videos, photographs and other forms of records

the civil and military achievements of the Royal ancestors

made about the activities of Gwangjus citizens during the

of Joseon. This age-old Confucian ritual combining splendid

movement, and the subsequent process of compensation for the

performances of music and dance is widely admired not only for

victims, as collected by the May 18 Memorial Foundation, the

the preservation of original features formed over 500 years ago,

National Archives and Records Service, the National Assembly

but also for its unique syncretic or composite art form.

Library, and various organizations in the USA.

Pansori
Jongmyo Jeryeak
(Royal Ancestral Rite
and Ritual Music at
Jongmyo Shrine)
The Royal Ancestral
Memorial Rite held
seasonally at the
Jongmyo Shrine involves
the performance of the
civil and military dances
Munmu and Mumu.

Representative List of the Intangible

Pansori is a genre of musical storytelling performed by a vocalist

Cultural Heritage of Humanity

and a single drummer in which he or she combines singing (sori)

Royal Ancestral Rite and Ritual Music

with gestures (ballim) and narrative (aniri) to present an epic

The Royal Ancestral Rite (Jongmyo Jerye) now held on the first

drama conceived from popular folk tales and well known historic

Sunday of May to honor the deceased Joseon Kings and their

events. The art form was established during the 18th century and

Queen Consorts at the Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul remained one

has generated enthusiastic performers and audiences ever since.

of the most important state ceremonies after the establishment

Gangneung Danoje Festival
This summer festival held in and around Gangneung, Gangwondo, for about 30 days from the fifth day of the fifth lunar month
to Dano Day on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, is one of
Koreas oldest folk festivals and has been preserved more or less
in its original form since its emergence many centuries ago. The
festival starts with the traditional ritual of honoring the mountain
god of Daegwallyeong and continues with a great variety of folk
games, events and rituals during which prayers are offered for a
good harvest, the peace and prosperity of villages and individual
homes, and communal unity and solidarity.
The first event of the Danoje Festival is related to the

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79

While today only the dance part is selected to be performed by

professional dancers, the original performance included several
different folk games such as Namsaengi n ori (Namsadang
vagabond clowns play), deokseok mori (straw mat rolling) and
gosari kkeokgi (bracken shoot picking). The performers sing the
Song of Ganggangsullae as they dance, and the singing is done
alternately by the lead singer and the rest with the tempo of the
song and dance movements becoming faster and faster towards
the end.
Namsadang Nori
Namsadang n ori, generally performed by an itinerant troupe
Gangneung Danoje
Festival
A masked couple dancing
at the Gwanno Mask
Dance during the Danoje
Festival, which is held to
celebrate the change of
the seasons from spring
to summer.

preparation of divine drinks (sinju) to be offered to gods and

of male performers, consisted of several distinct parts including

goddesses, thus linking the human world with the divine world.

pungmul n ori (music and dance), jultagi (tightrope walking),

This is followed by a variety of festive events such as the Gwanno

daejeop dolligi (plate spinning), gamyeongeuk (mask theater)

Mask Dance, a non-verbal performance by masked players, swing

and kkokdugaksi noreum (puppet theater). The performers also

riding, ssireum (Korean wrestling), street performances by farmers

played instruments while they danced, such as the barrel buk

bands, changpo (iris) hair washing, and surichwi rice cake eating.

(drum), janggu (hourglass-shaped drum), kkwaenggwari (small

Of these, the changpo hair washing event is particularly widely

metal gong), jing (large metal gong), and two wind instruments

practiced by women who believe that the extract of changpo will

called nabal and taepyeongso.

give them glossier hair and repel the evil spirits that are thought
to bear diseases.

Yeongsanjae
Yeongsanjae, literally meaning Rites of Vulture Peak, is a

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Ganggangsullae

Buddhist ritual performed on the 49th day after a persons death

This traditional event combining a circle dance with singing and

to comfort his or her spirit, and guide it to the Buddhist land of

folk games was performed by women around the coastal areas of

bliss. The ritual, known to have been performed since the Goryeo

Jeollanam-do during traditional holidays such as Chuseok (Harvest

Period (918-1392), consists of solemn Buddhist music and dance,

Moon Festival/Thanksgiving) and the Daeboreum (the first full

a sermon on the Buddhas teachings, and a prayer recitation.

moon of the New Year on the lunar calendar) in particular.

While it is an essential part of the Korean Buddhist tradition

81

conducted to guide both the living and the dead to the realm of
Buddhist truths and to help them liberate themselves from all
defilement and suffering, it was sometimes performed for the
peace and prosperity of both the state and the people.
Jeju Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut
This age-old shamanic ritual was at one time performed in almost
all the towns and villages in Jejudo, with worshippers praying for a
good catch and the safety of fishermen working at sea. According
to the traditional folk belief of Jejudo islanders the second lunar
month is the month of Yeongdeung, during which Grandma
Yeongdeung, a wind deity, visits all the villages, farming fields
and homes across Jeju, bearing tidings about the harvest in the
oncoming autumn.
Taekkyeon
One of the surviving traditional martial arts developed in Korea,
Taekkyeon, which is quite different from Taekwondo, used to
be known by several different names such as Gakhui (sport
of legs) and Bigaksul (art of flying legs), although such
names suggest that it is related with the movement of kicking.
Like most other martial arts in which weapons are not used,
Taekkyeon is aimed at improving ones self-defence techniques
and promoting physical and mental health through the practice
of orchestrated dance-like bodily movements, using the feet
and legs in particular. Contestants are encouraged to focus more
on defence than on offense, and to throw the opponent to the
ground using their hands and feet or jump up and kick him in
the face to win a match.
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2
3

1
4

1. Falconry
It was once a serious
activity conducted to gain
food but now an outdoor
sport seeking a unity with
nature
2. Namsadang Nori
Performance presented
by a traveling troupe of
about 40 performers led
by a percussionist called
Kkokdusoe
3. Yeongsanjae
A Buddhist memorial
ritual performed on the
49th day after ones death
to guide the spirit to the
pure land of bliss
4. Pansori
Performance of a solo
artist assisted by a
drummer where singing is
combined with dramatic
narratives and gestures to
present a long, epic story
(National Center for
Korean Traditional
Performing Arts)

83

Jultagi
In the traditional Korean art of jultagi (tightrope walking), a
tightrope walker performs a variety of acrobatic movements,
as well as singing and comic storytelling, as he walks along a
tightrope. He is generally assisted by an eorit gwangdae (clown)
on the ground who responds to his words and movements with
witty remarks and comic actions intended to elicit an amused
response from the spectators. Tightrope walking was formally
performed at the Royal Court to celebrate special occasions such
as the (Lunar) New Years Day or to entertain special guests
such as foreign envoys. However the aspiration of Joseons rulers
towards a more austere lifestyle gradually pushed it toward
villages and markets, and it ultimately became an entertainment
for the common people. Whilst tightrope walking in other
countries tends to focus on the walking techniques alone, Korean
tightrope walkers are interested in songs and comedy as well as
acrobatic stunts, thereby involving the spectators more intimately
in the performance.
Falconry
Korea has a long tradition of keeping and training falcons and
1
2

other raptors to seize quarry, such as wild pheasants or hares.

Archaeological and historical evidence show that falconry on

1. Taekkyeon
A traditional Korean
martial art marked by
elegant yet powerful
physical movements

the Korean peninsula started several thousand years ago and

2. Jultagi
Performance of tightrope
walking combined with
singing, comedy and
acrobatic movements

south, and was conducted usually during the winter season

84

was widely practiced during the Goryeo Period (918-1392) in

particular. The sport was more popular in the north than in the
when farmers were free from farm work. Falconers would tie
a leather string around the ankle of their bird and an ID tag
85

and a bell to its tail. The Korean tradition was inscribed on

the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of
Humanity in 2010 along with those preserved in eleven other
countries around the world including the Czech Republic, France,
Mongolia, Spain, and Syria.

Arirang
The most widely loved
of all Korean folk songs,
Arirang features the refrain
Arirang, Arirang, Arariyo.

Arirang
Arirang is the name of a folk song sung by Korean people since
olden times. There are many variations of the song, although
the lyrics of their refrains have the words arirang or arari in
common. The song was sung for many different purposes such as to
reduce feelings of boredom during work, confess ones true feelings
to ones beloved, pray to the divine being for a happy and peaceful
life, and to entertain people gathered together for a celebration.
One element that has helped Arirang remain in the hearts of
Korean people for so many years is its form, which is designed to
allow any singer to easily add their own words to express their
feelings. The importance of Arirang in the daily life of the Korean
people is succinctly described in an essay, Korean Vocal Music,
written in 1896 by Homer B. Hulbert (1863-1949), an American
missionary and ardent supporter of Korean independence:
The first and most conspicuous of this class is that popular
ditty of seven hundred and eighty-two verses, more or less, which
goes under the euphonious title of A-ri-rang. To the average
Korean this one song holds the same place in music that rice does
in his foodall else is mere appendage. You hear it everywhere
and at all times.
The verses which are sung in connection with this chorus
range through the whole field of legend, folklore, lullabies, drinking

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87

songs, domestic life, travel and love. To the Korean they are lyric,

of seafood including shrimps and anchovies in particular, which

didactic and epic all rolled into one. They are at once Mother

they salt and leave to ferment until they are ready for use in the

Goose and Byron, Uncle Remus and Wordsworth.

Kimjang season. They then obtain fine-quality sun-dried sea salt

in summer and prepare red chili powder and the main ingredients,

Kimjang: Making and Sharing Kimchi in Korea

kimchi cabbage and Korean white radish, in autumn. Then, with

Kimjang is the activity of making kimchi that is conducted all

winter approaching, members of families and communities alike

over Korea during late autumn as part of the preparations to

gather together on a mutually agreed date to make kimchi in

secure fresh, healthy food for the winter season. Now gaining a

sufficient quantities to sustain families with fresh food through

worldwide reputation as a representative Korean food, kimchi

the long, harsh winter.

has always been one of the key side dishes required to complete

While Korea is now a modern, industrialized nation, the age-

the everyday meals eaten by Korean people since olden times.

old tradition of making kimchi is still maintained as a collective

That is why Kimjang has long been an annual event of paramount

cultural activity contributing to a shared sense of social identity

importance for entire families and communities across Korea.

and solidarity among todays Korean people. The tradition was

The preparations for making kimchi for the winter season

follow a yearly cycle. In spring, households procure a selection

88

registered by UNESCO on its Representative List of the Intangible

Cultural Heritage of Humanity on December 5, 2013.

89

World Heritage Sites

1

Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple

Archetypes of Buddhist architecture
developed in Silla.
Location Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Website www.sukgulam.org

2 Janggyeongpanjeon Depositories of
Haeinsa Temple, Hapcheon
The oldest buildings at Haeinsa Temple,
storing over 80,000 woodblocks of the
Tripitaka Koreana.
Location Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do
Website www.haeinsa.or.kr
3 Jongmyo Shrine
A Confucian shrine storing the memorial
tablets of Joseons Kings and their Queen
Consorts.
Location Jongno-gu, Seoul
Website jm.cha.go.kr
4 Changdeokgung Palace
The official Royal Palace of the Joseon
Dynasty for 258 years from 1610 to 1868.
Location Jongno-gu, Seoul
Website www.cdg.go.kr
5 Hwaseong Fortress
An architectural masterpiece of Joseon
fortifications combining beauty and
practicality.
Location Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do
Website www.swcf.or.kr
6 Gyeongju Historic Areas
The well preserved remains of Gyeongju,
the capital of Silla for one millennium.
Location Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Website guide.gyeongju.go.kr
7 Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa
Dolmen Sites
Countless lithic monuments dating from
prehistoric Korea.
Location Gochang-gun of Jeollabuk-do,

Hwasun-gun of Jeollanam-do,

and Ganghwa-gun of Incheon
8 Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
Volcanic cones and lava tubes formed by
eruptions of Hallasan Mountain, the highest
mountain in South Korea
Location Hallasan Mountain, Geomunoreum,

and Ilchulbong of Seongsan,

Jejudo Island
Website jejuwnh.jeju.go.kr
9 Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
Fifty-three Royal Tombs of the Joseon
Dynasty preserved in their original condition.
Location Seocho-gu of Seoul, and Guri-si

and Yeoju-si in Gyeongggi-do

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19

10 Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe

and Yangdong
Villages formed by aristocratic families of
Joseon based on Confucian ideology.
Location Andong-si and Gyeongju-si,

Gyeongsangbuk-do
11 Namhansanseong
A Mountain fortress that served as
a temporary capital during the Joseon
Dynasty, showing how the techniques for
building a fortress developed during
the 7th -19th centuries
Location Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do

26

Memory of the World

12

Hunminjeongeum (The Proper Sounds

for the Instruction of the People)
A single-volume xylographic book printed in
1446, containing commentaries on
the Korean writing system.

13

Joseon Wangjo Sillok: Annals of

the Joseon Dynasty
A huge collection of the annals of the Joseon
dynasty from 1392 to 1863, bound in 1,893
volumes in 888 books.
Website sillok.history.go.kr

14

Baegun Hwasang Chorok Buljo Jikji

Simche Yojeol (vol. II), the second volume
of an Anthology of Great Buddhist Priests'
Zen Teachings
An advanced-level textbook published for
monk-scholars in medieval Korea.
Website www.jikjiworld.ne

15

Seungjeongwon Ilgi:
Diaries of the Royal Secretariat
Daily records of Joseons rulers, containing
a wealth of historical information.
Website kyu.snu.ac.kr

16

Uigwe: Royal Protocols of the

Joseon Dynasty
Rare and exquisite collections of illustrated
records on important state and royal
occasions of the Joseon Dynasty.
Website kyujanggak.snu.ac.kr

17

Printing Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana

and Miscellaneous Buddhist Scriptures
A superb collection of the Buddhist canon
of scriptures carved on 80,000 woodblocks,
providing valuable information on the
politics, culture and philosophy of Goryeo
in the 13th century.
Website www.haeinsa.or.kr

18

Dongui Bogam: Principles and Practice of

Eastern Medicine
An encyclopedic work on medicine
developed in East Asia since ancient times.

10

30

31

19

Ilseongnok: Daily Records of the Royal

Court and Important Officials
Diaries kept by Joseon rulers between 1752
and 1910, containing records of state affairs
and the daily activities of Joseons Kings.

20

Human Rights Documentary Heritage 1980

Archives for the May 18th Democratic
Uprising against Military Regime, in Gwangju
A vast collection of documents, videos,
photographs, etc. on the democratic
movements that spread in and around
Gwangju in May 1980.

21 Nanjung Ilgi: War Diary of Admiral Yi Sun-sin

A collection of private journals kept by
Admiral Yi Sun-sin, recording his daily
activities and battle situations during the
Imjin Waeran (Japanese Invasion, 1592 1598).
22 The Archives of Saemaeul Undong
A collection of historical records on
the Saemaeul Undong (New Community
Movement), an exemplary movement that
led to the successful development of
farming communities and the eradication
of poverty in the 1970s

Intangible Cultural
Heritage of Humanity

13

32

23 The Royal Ancestral Rituals and Music at

the Jongmyo Shrine
A traditional performance of music, song
and dance presented during the memorial
rite held at the Royal Ancestral Shrine
24 Pansori
The traditional art of the dramatic
song performed by a solo performer to the
accompaniment of a single drummer,
presenting an epic story by combining
singing, narratives and gestures.

14

36

25 Gangneung Danoje Festival

A time-honored summer festival held on
the 5th day of the 5th lunar month.
26 Ganggangsullae
A traditional folk entertainment with singing
and dancing performed by women to
celebrate moon festivals.

15

38

27

Namsadang Nori
Folk performances traditionally presented
to rural communities by an itinerant troupe
of about forty performers (Namsadang) led
by the chief musician (Kkokdusoe).

28 Yeongsanjae
A Buddhist ritual performed to comfort and
guide the spirits of the dead to the Buddhist
land of bliss.

29

Jeju Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut

A traditional shamanic ritual practiced at
Chilmeoridang, a shrine for the village
tutelary of Geonip-dong, Jeju-si.

30 Cheoyongmu
A Court dance performed by five dancers
wearing Cheoyong masks and costumes in
five cardinal colors.
31

Gagok, Lyric Song Cycles Accompanied by

an Orchestra
Traditional vocal music performed
by putting a poem to a melody with an
accompaniment of orchestral music.

32 Daemokjang, Traditional Wooden

Architecture
The art of building traditional works of
architecture designed and supervised by a
master builder.
33 Falconry
The traditional art of keeping falcons and
training them to hunt for quarry.
34 Jultagi
A traditional folk entertainment in which
a tightrope walker performs acrobatic
movements and tells comic stories as he
walks along the rope.
35 Taekkyeon
A traditional Korean martial art practiced
for self-defence purposes and known to be
beneficial to ones physical and mental health.
36 Weaving of Mosi (Fine Ramie) in the
Hansan Region
The tradition of weaving ramie, a fine-quality
fabric used for the production of summer
clothing, preserved in Hansan.
37 Arirang
A folk song with many variations cherished
by the Korean people throughout history.
38 Kimjang, Making and Sharing Kimchi
in Korea
The cultural tradition of preparing for and
making kimchi to be eaten during the winter
season, typically with the participation of an
entire family or community

For further information on

Koreas cultural heritage,
please visit www.cha.go.kr.
91

Performance of Yeomillak
(Joy of the People),
court music composed
during the reign of
King Sejong in the 15th
century.

92

Traditional Arts

the Royal Ancestral Rite at the Jongmyo Shrineinscribed on

Gugak

UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of

The term gugak, which literally means national music, refers to

Humanity in 2001and Yeomillak, or Joy of the People. The term

traditional Korean music and other related art forms including

gugak was first used by the Jangagwon, a government agency of

songs, dances and ceremonial movements. The history of music

late Joseon responsible for music, to distinguish traditional Korean

in Korea should be as long as Korean history itself, but it was only

music from foreign music.

in the early 15th century, during the reign of King Sejong of the

Traditional Korean music is typically classified into several

Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), that Korean music became a subject

types: the legitimate music (called jeongak or jeongga) enjoyed

of serious study and was developed into a system, resulting in the

by the royalty and aristocracy of Joseon; folk music including

creation of the oldest mensural notation system, called jeongganbo,

pansori, sanjo and japga; jeongjae (court music and dance)

in Asia. King Sejongs efforts to reform the court music led not

performed for the King at celebratory state events; music and

only to the creation of Koreas own notation system but also to

dance connected with shamanic and Buddhist traditions such

the composition of a special ritual music to be performed during

as salpuri, seungmu, and beompae; and poetic songs beloved of

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the literati elite such as gagok and sijo. Of the numerous folk

ritual dance), taepyeongmu (dance of peace), hallyangchum (idlers

songs, Ariranginscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the

dance), buchaechum (fan dance), geommu (sword dance), and

Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2012is particularly

seungmu (monks dance). Of these, talchum (mask dance) and

cherished by the common people as there are many variations

pungmul nori (play with musical instruments) are known for their

with special lyrics and melodies devised to touch their hearts.

satirical targeting of the corrupt aristocracy of Joseon and their

The Korean people have also developed a wide range of

close connection with rural communities, which had long been

musical instruments. These traditional musical instruments are

the bedrock of Korean culture and tradition. Most performances

generally divided into three categories: wind instruments such as

are presented in a marketplace or on the fields and involve

the piri, daegeum, danso and taepyeongso; stringed instruments

drumming, dancing, and singing.

such as the gayageum, geomungo, haegeum, ajaeng and bipa;

Buchaechum
(Fan Dance)
A traditional form of
Korean dance usually
performed by groups of
female dancers holding
fans with floral designs
on them.

and percussion instruments such as the buk, janggu, pyeonjong,

Painting and Calligraphy

pyeongyeong, kkwaenggwari and jing.

Painting has always been a major genre of Korean art since

ancient times. The art of ancient Korea is represented by the tomb

Folk Dance

murals of Goguryeo (37 BCE 668) which contain valuable clues

Korean people have inherited a great variety of folk dances such

to the beliefs of the early Korean people about

as salpurichum (spiritual purification dance), gutchum (shamanic

humanity and the universe as well as to their

Myeong-Seon
(Meditation with Tea)
by Kim Jeong-hui (penname: Chusa, 17861856)
(Joseon, 19th century)

artistic sensibilities and techniques. The artists of

Goryeo (918-1392) were interested in capturing
Buddhist icons and bequeathed some great
masterpieces, while the literati elite of Joseon was
more attracted to the symbolism of plants and
animals, such as the Four Noble Lords (Sagunja,
namely, the orchid, chrysanthemum, bamboo, and
plum tree) and the Ten Creatures of Longevity
(Sipjangsaeng), as well as idealized landscapes.
Korea in the 18th century saw the arrival of
two great artists, Kim Hong-do and Sin Yun-bok,
both of whom developed a passionate interest
in depicting the daily activities of ordinary
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people in their work. Kim Hong-do preferred depicting a

kaleidoscope of people in various situations and scenes of
everyday life, whereas Sin Yun-bok, for his part, devoted
his efforts to capturing erotic moments in works that were
surprisingly voyeuristic for the period.
Calligraphy, which developed in Korea under the influence
of China, is the art of handwriting in which the beauty of the
lines and forms of characters and the energy contained in
brush strokes and subtle shades of ink are appreciated. While
calligraphy is an independent genre of art, it has been closely
related with ink and wash painting since these forms use similar
techniques and the tools commonly called the four friends of
the study (i.e. paper, brush, ink stick and ink stone). Korea has
produced an abundance of master calligraphers of whom Kim
Jeong-hui (1786-1856) is particularly famous for developing his
own style, which is known as Chusache or Chusa Style (Chusa
was his pen name). His calligraphic works fascinated even the
Chinese masters of his time and are still widely admired for
their remarkably modern artistic beauty.
Pottery
Korean pottery, which nowadays attracts the highest praise
from international collectors, is typically divided into three
groups: Cheongja (blue-green celadon), Buncheong (slip-coated
stoneware), and Baekja (white porcelain). Celadon refers to Korean
Ssireum (Korean Wrestling) by Kim Hong-do (1745-1806)
This genre painting by Kim Hong-do, one of the greatest painters of the late Joseon Period, vividly captures a scene of traditional
Korean wrestling where two competing wrestlers are surrounded by engrossed spectators.

stoneware which underwent major development in the hands of

Goryeo potters some 700 to 1,000 years ago. Celadon pottery is
marked by an attractive jade blue surface and the unique Korean
inlay technique used to decorate it. Gangjin of Jeollanam-do

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Kiln Site in Gangjin,

Jeollanam-do
The remains of ancient kilns
can be seen in Gangjin,
which was one of the main
producers of celadon wares
during the Goryeo period.

1
3

2
4

1. Celadon Melon-shaped Bottle (Goryeo, 12th century)

2. Celadon Jar with Peony Design (Goryeo, 12th century)
3. Buncheong Bottle with Lotus and Vine Design
(Joseon, 15th century)
4. White Porcelain Bottle with String Design in
Underglaze Iron (Joseon, 16th century)
(Source: National Museum of Korea)

and Buan of Jeollabuk-do were its two main producers during

the Goryeo Period (918-1392). White porcelain ware represents
the ceramic art of the Joseon Period (1392-1910). While some
of these porcelain wares display a milky white surface, many are
decorated with a great variety of designs painted in oxidized iron,
copper, or the priceless cobalt blue pigment imported from Persia
via China. The Royal Court of Joseon ran its own kilns in Gwangju,
Gyeonggi-do, producing products of the very highest quality. The
advanced techniques used in the production of white porcelain
wares were introduced to Japan by Joseon potters kidnapped
during the Imjin Waeran (Japanese Invasion of Korea, 1592-1598).
The third main group of Korean pottery, Buncheong, was
made by Goryeo potters after the fall of their Kingdom in 1392.
This type of pottery is characterized by its slip-coated surface
and delightfully simple decorative designs created using several
different techniques.
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Handicrafts
In the past Korean craftsmen and women developed a wide range
of techniques to produce the items they needed at home. They
made pieces of wooden furniture such as wardrobes, cabinets
and tables marked by a keen eye for balance and symmetry, and

1
2

3
4

1. Womens toiletry cases

2. Naturally dyed fabrics
3. Embroidered accessories
4. Korean mulberry paper dolls

wove beautiful baskets, boxes and mats with bamboo, wisteria or

lespedeza. They used Korean mulberry paper to make masks, dolls
and ceremonial ornaments, and decorated diverse household
objects with black and red lacquer harvested from nature.
Later they developed the art of using beautifully dyed oxhorn strips, and iridescent mother-of-pearl and abalone shell to
decorate furniture. Embroidery, decorative knot making (maedeup)
and natural dyeing were also important elements of traditional
Korean arts and crafts, which were widely exploited to make
attractive garments, household objects and personal fashion
ornaments.

Two-tier Chest
This exquisite wooden
chest used for storing
clothes is lavishly
decorated with a motherof-pearl inlay design.
(The National Folk Museum
of Korea)

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101

Hallyu (Korean Wave)

A term now widely used to refer to the popularity of Korean
entertainment and culture across Asia and other parts of the
world, Hallyu or the Korean Wave first appeared during the
mid-1990s after Korea entered into diplomatic relations with
China in 1992 and Korean TV dramas and pop music gained great
popularity in Chinese-speaking communities. When one of the
first successful TV dramas, What Is Love?, was aired by CCTV in
1997, it had an audience rating of 4.2%, meaning that over 150
million Chinese viewers watched it.
Korean pop music, especially dance music, began to gain
popularity among Chinese teenagers after it was introduced
in earnest in 1997 by a radio program called Seoul Music
Room broadcast from Beijing. The decisive moment in igniting
Korean pop culture fever in China was the concert of Korean
boy band H.O.T., held at the Beijing Workers' Gymnasium in
February 2000. Korean news reports used the term Hallyu, or
the Korean Wave, in describing this concert. The Korean Wave,
acknowledged in an article published by Beijing Youth Daily
as early as November 1999, began to finally be recognized by
Gangnam Style by Psy
The Psys Gangnam
Style took the world
by storm with the horse
riding dance. It became
the first K-Pop title to
break into and top the UK
Official Singles Chart Top
40 in 2012. The song also
spent seven weeks at the
#2 spot on the Billboard
Hot 100 chart. The photo
shows Psy performing for
his Korean fans gathered
at the Seoul City Hall
Plaza the same year.

102

Koreans themselves from this point.

The Korean Wave landed in Japan in 2003 when the KBS TV
drama series Winter Sonata was aired via NHK. The drama became
an instant mega hit, making its male hero, Yon Sama, a household
name, compelling his enthusiastic Japanese fans to visit various
film locations, including Namiseom Island, in Korea.
The Korean Wave craze has expanded to Korean traditional
culture, food, literature and language, creating more and more
enthusiasts. According to the latest figures, there were 987
103

Hallyu-related organizations as of July 2013 with a combined

membership of 9 million people.
A great majority of these organizations are K-Pop fan clubs,
but lately new groups of people whose interests are more diverse
have begun to emerge.
K-Pop
One area that is growing more rapidly than any other is 21st
century K-Pop, or Korean pop music, which spans dance-pop,
pop ballads, techno, rock, hip-hop, R&B, and so on. First gaining
popularity in East Asia, K-Pop entered the Japanese music market
towards the turn of the 21st century, and grew from a musical
genre into a subculture among teenagers and young adults of
East and Southeast Asia. Currently, the spread of K-Pop to other
regions of the world, via the Korean Wave, is seen in parts of Latin
America, Northeast India, North Africa, the Middle East, Eastern
Europe and immigrant enclaves of the Western world.
The rise of K-Pop on the global stage is probably best
represented by Psys Gangnam Style, which swept the world
as soon as it was released in late 2012. The song was the first
K-Pop title reach No. 1 on the British Official Singles Chart, took
2nd place on Billboards Hot 100 in the US, and also topped the
charts in more than 30 countries, including France, Germany,
Italy, Spain, Russia, Canada, and Australia. The YouTube video of
the song has been watched by more people than any other, with
over 2 billion so far.
The worldwide success of Gangnam Style was preceded
by a surge of K-Pop idol groups, such as TVXQ, Super Junior, Big
Bang, 2NE1, Beast, Girls Generation, 2PM and Wonder Girls, who
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1
2

Two leading K-Pop idol

groups: Big Bang (above)
and 2NE1 (below)

105

K-Pop fans in Spain

an important momentum for K-Pop artists to be received more

seriously by the European music market.
The year 2011 saw similar events held in several different
cities around the world, starting with a K-Pop Festival that
attracted over 45,000 fans to the Tokyo Dome in July. JYJ
had concerts in Spain and Germany, and the artists of CUBE
Entertainment performed in Britain and Brazil. In October, Girls
Generation held a special concert at Madison Square Garden
in New York whose success was covered on the front page of
New York Daily News with a large photo of a concert scene and
the rather sensational headline, Attack of the K-Pop Stars. In
February the following year, another major K-Pop festival was
dominated pop music markets across Asia. TVXQ had a total of

held at the Palais Omnisports Bercy Stadium in Paris with over

65 tour concerts in Japan from 2006 to 2012, bringing together

10,000 fans coming from across Europe to fill the entire stadium.

about 700,000 fans and selling over 6.3 million albums, while in
late 2009 Wonder Girls became the first Korean group to enter

TV Dramas

the US Billboard Hot 100 chart with the song Nobody.

The great overseas success of What Is Love? (MBC) and Winter

The popularity of K-Pop singers is largely based on their

Sonata (KBS) in China and Japan played an important role in

excellent vocal abilities, dazzling stage presence and well-

boosting the craze for Korean TV dramas across Asia and beyond.

choreographed, impeccable dance performances among other

These hits were followed by Dae Jang Geum (MBC), an epic TV

things. While they may look comfortable and charismatic on

series about an orphaned kitchen cook who went on to become

stage, their performance is the result of many years of hard work

the King's first female physician. Originally aired between 2003

rather than any inborn talent.

and 2004, the drama became one of the highest-rated TV dramas

More recently, K-Pop idol groups have tended to be more

in Korea before being exported to 87 countries around the world

interested in joint performances with other performers contracted

including the Islamic states like Iran where it received as much

with the same agency. One of the most successful events

as 80% of the viewersto fascinate viewers with its portrayal of

of this kind took place in June 2011 when the artists of SM

traditional Korean culture such as Korean Royal Court cuisine and

Entertainment staged a joint concert at Le Zenith de Paris in the

traditional costumes and medicinal knowledge.

French capital, attracting over 7,000 fans. The event is regarded as

106

The remarkable success story of Korean TV dramas continued

107

K-Dramas that have

charmed overseas viewers:
Big Thing (left) and
Love Rain (right)

Festival (BIFF), the Jeonju International Film Festival (JIFF) and the
Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BiFan).
International film communities have recently begun to show
a keen interest in Korean films and film directors. The Korean
directors who have attracted the attention of Western critics
include Im Kwon-taek, Lee Chang-dong, Park Chan-wook, Hong
Sang-soo, Kim Ki-duk, Kim Jee-woon, Im Sang-soo and Bong

Film Festivals in Korea

in the 2010s with Big Thing (SBS, 2010), Giant (SBS, 2010), Secret
Garden (SBS, 2011), Love Rain (KBS, 2012) and That Winter, The
Wind Blows (SBS, 2013). Of these, Love Rain was exported to
Japan for KRW 9 billion and That Winter, the Wind Blows to some
local broadcasters in North America as well as ten Asian countries
including China and Japan.
Movies
The worldwide popularity of Korean pop culture resulted in the
reemergence of Hallyu (Korean Wave) movie stars such as Bae
Yong-joon (better known as Yon Sama in Japan), Jang Donggun, Lee Seo-jin, Kwon Sang-woo, Won Bin, Jang Keun-suk, Lee
Byung-hun, Rain, Jun Ji-hyun and Bae Doona. Of these, the last
four have appeared as main characters in Hollywood movies.
The outstanding international reputation that certain K-movie
directors and stars enjoy today is in part due to the international

Busan International Film

Festival (October 2-11, 2014)
Quickly becoming a top Asian
film festival after its launch in
1996, the BIFF provides the
Asian movie community with
an opportunity to present,
watch, discuss and trade
new films, documentaries,
commercials, and independent
films, both digital and
analogue, amid worldwide
media coverage.
www.biff.kr

Bucheon International
Fantastic Film Festival
(July 17-27, 2014)
Held every July in Bucheon,
Gyeonggi-do since 1997, BiFan
presents Korean movie lovers
with horror films, thrillers,
mystery and fantasy movies
produced in Korea and other
Asian countries.
www.bifan.kr

Jeonju International Film

Festival (May 1-10, 2014)
Launched in 2000 and held
annually in Jeonju, the home of
traditional Korean culture, the
JIFF focuses upon films that
are marked by their artistic
creativity whilst challenging
existing conventions.
www.jiff.or.kr

film festivals held in Korea including the Busan International Film

108

109

Kim Ki-duk, Film Director

Flanked by Lee Jung-jin
and Jo Min-su (right) who
acted in his film, Kim
became the first Korean
film director to win the
Golden Lion at the 69th
Venice International Film
Festival with Piet.

Cinema Program of the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival.

The increased interest in Korean films among Korean
filmgoers has recently produced some mega box-office hits. The
Thieves, for instance, attracted 12.98 million viewers in Korea
alone, and was sold to eight Asian countries including Singapore,
Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. Several other films also
attracted more than ten million viewers including Masquerade
(2012), Silmido (2003), Taegukgi (2004), The King and the Clown
(2005), The Host (2006) and Haeundae (2009). Meanwhile,
the Guanajuato International Film Festival designated Korea
as the guest of honor in July 2011, and showed a total of 76
Joon-ho, all of whom have produced masterpieces as if to reward

Korean films including Whispering Corridors and Bedeviled

their support and the expectations surrounding them, such as

under programs focused on Korean Horror Films and two film

Strokes of Fire (2002) by Im Kwon-taek, Secret Sunshine by Lee

directors, Bong Joon-ho and Kim Dong-won.

Chang-dong (2007), Thirst (2009) by Park Chan-wook and The

Taste of Money (2012) by Im Sang-soo.
For Kim Ki-duk, a memorable moment came in September

The Korean classical music community has continued to produce

2012 when he became the first Korean director to win the Golden

artists of the highest international standard in both vocal and

Lion at the 69th Venice International Film Festival with Piet.

instrumental music. For instance, five young Korean artists won

He made his debut as a director in 1996, just three years after

five prizes in the disciplines of piano, solo vocal and violin at the

suspending his art studies for which he stayed in Paris from 1990

International Tchaikovsky Competition held in 2011, one of the

to 1993, and began to pour out such works as Birdcage Inn (1998),

top three international music competitions.

The Isle (2000), and 3-Iron (2004), causing controversy among

film critics and audiences alike.

110

Music

Korea has continued to produce distinguished vocalists

of whom Sumi Jo (soprano), Hong Hei-kyung (soprano), Shin

Alongside him, Park Chan-wook, Kim Jee-woon and Bong

Youngok (soprano), Kwangchul Youn (bass) and Samuel Yoon (bass

Joon-ho who have all been successful both commercially and

baritone) are eagerly sought after by classical music lovers in

critically and have been invited to Hollywood to make films for

many parts of the world. Regarding instrumental music, Yeol Eum

the wider film going public. In 2012, The Thieves, a film by Choi

Son (piano), Dong-hyek Lim (piano), Sarah Chang (violin) and Zia

Dong-hoon, was invited to compete at the Contemporary World

Hyunsu Shin (violin) regularly perform for their fans - mostly in

111

Korea, the USA, and various European countries. Lee Hee-ah, a

Musical Theater

four-fingered pianist, is also a widely acclaimed pianist not only

Korean theater goers have recently begun to pay more attention

for her great performances but also for her heroic fight against a

to musical comedies presented on theater stages. The increased

challenging physical condition.

demand for good-quality musicals has resulted in the performance

They were preceded by Koreas first generation of classical

of world-famous musicals such as Jekyll & Hyde, Chicago and

musicians, including two pianists, Han Tong-il and Kun-woo Paik,

Cats either by the original or Korean teams, and the production

who fascinated international audiences between the 1950s and

of new musicals written and directed by Korean talents. Some of

the 1970s and who still play to many enthusiastic fans. Myung-

these Korean productions have been invited to perform in Japan

whun Chung, the current maestro of the Seoul Philharmonic

and Southeast Asia. Koreas thriving musical theater scene has

Orchestra, started his career in the world of classical music as a

resulted in the creation of a group of stars such as Choi Jung-won,

pianist, regularly playing as a member of the Chung Trio with his

Nam Kyung-joo and Jo Seung-woo, whose reputation has grown

two sisters, Chung Kyung-wha, who won worldwide recognition

with stage musicals, and Yoon Bok-hee, Insooni and Ock Joo-hyun

as a violinist, and Chung Myung-wha, who plays cello. Later he

who have become great musical actresses based on their success

turned to conductorship and has conducted some of the worlds

on the K-Pop stage.

most prestigious orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic,

Maestro Chung Myungwhun served as music

director and resident
conductor of the Opra
de la Bastille in Paris.
He received the Una Vita
Nella Musica award from
the Teatro La Fenice in
Venice in July 2013.

112

London Philharmonic, and Paris Orchestra, before going on to

Modern Dance and Ballet

serve as music director and resident conductor of the Opra de la

The launch of the National Dance Company of Korea in 1962

Bastille in Paris.

provided the momentum for a surge of interest in modern

Kim Ki-min and Olesya

Novikova performing
in Swan Lake by the
Mariinsky Ballet and
Orchestra. Kim is the first
Asian dancer to join the
Mariinsky Ballet.

113

Gwangju Biennale
Emerged as a major
installation art show
in Asia, the Gwangju
Biennale has played a key
role in linking the city of
Gwangju with the rest
of Korea and the world
via contemporary art
since the establishment
in 1995 as the first of its
kind in Asia.

dance in Korea. The changed environment eventually led to the

sang, Song Soo-nam, Lee Doo-shik, Lee Wal-jong, Youn Myeung-

birth of a great dancer, Sin Cha Hong (or Hong Sin-ja, born in

ro, Lee Il, Kang Ik-joong, Lim Ok-sang, Kim Young-won and Choi

1943), who is now credited as Korea's first avant-garde dancer

Jong-tae, all of whom have gained international fans.

and premier performance artist. She learned dance from Alwin

Koreas rapid economic growth in the 1970s resulted in the

Nikolais in the United States and worked there until 1990, and

establishment of numerous public and private art institutions of

then returned to Korea to involve herself in various activities

which about 60 are located in downtown Seoul, Insa-dong and

related with modern dance.

Samcheong-dong in particular, such as Gana Art Space, Seoul Art

Korea in the 1980s saw the foundation of two ballet

Center Gongpyeong Gallery and Kyung-in Museum of Fine Art.

companies, Universal Ballet (1984) and Seoul Ballet (1986), which

More recently, Cheongdam-dong in Gangnam-gu south of the

are still actively producing classical ballet performances in Korea

Hangang River has emerged as a hub of Korean fine art. As for

and abroad. The increased popularity of ballet resulted in the

international art events, the Gwangju Biennale launched in 1995

arrival of distinguished ballet dancers including Kang Sue-jin, who

has grown to be a major contemporary art exhibition in Asia.

became the first Asian to be a member of the Stuttgart Ballet in

1986, where she is now a principal dancer. Other successful ballet

Modern Literature

dancers include Seo Hee who joined the ABT Studio Company in

The publication in English of Please Look After Mom, a novel by

2004 and became a principal dancer at the ABT in 2012, and Kim

Shin Kyung-sook, by Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group in the

Ki-min who became the first Asian ballerina to join and become

United States in April 2011 was regarded as a sign of the Korean

First Soloist at the Mariinsky Ballet in 2012.

Wave spreading to the international literary world. The book was

listed in Amazons top ten bestsellers as soon as it was released

114

Modern Art

on the American market, and

The first generation of Korean modern artists

was promptly published in

represented by Nam June Paik (1932-2006), who

about 30 countries in Asia

is considered to be the founder of video art, was

(including Japan) and Europe,

followed by a new generation of distinguished

and in Australia. In June 2012,

artists such as Chang Ree-suok, Chang Doo-kun,

the author held a successful

Paek Young-soo, Chun Kyung Ja, Kim Tschang-yeul

meeting in Ljubljana, the

and Suh Se-ok. More recently, the Korean art world

capital of Slovenia, to mark

is represented by a group of painters and sculptors

the publication of her work in

such as Chun Kwang Young, Park Seo-bo, Lee Jong-

the Slovenian language. Then,

The English edition of

Please Look After Mom by
Shin Kyung-sook (left),
and Ko Un (right), one of
the most widely admired
poets in todays Korea

115

another work, Li Chin, was translated into French and published by

education conducted across the globe increased the number of its

the French publishing company Philippe Picquier. Gong Ji-young

affiliated schools from 17 in 2008 to 113 in 2013.

is another very successful Korean novelist of our time some of

Meanwhile, the 78th International PEN Congress took place

whose works, Our Happy Hours (2005), My Joyful Home (2007)

in Gyeongju, the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom for one

and The Crucible (2009) were made into massive box-office hits

thousand years, in September 2012. The gathering, held in Korea

and translated into Japanese.

for the third time after 1970 and 1988, attracted 700 men and

Korean contemporary poetry is represented by one big name,

women of letters from 114 countries across the world, including

Ko Un, who has routinely been mentioned as one of the front

Nobel laureates such as Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clzio of France,

runners for the Nobel Prize in Literature for quite a long time. He

Akinwande Oluwole Wole Soyinka of Nigeria, and Ferit Orhan

has continued to write poems that touch his readers hearts since

Pamuk of Turkey.

his debut with Tuberculosis in 1958. He completed a massive

116

series of poems, Ten Thousand Lives, in 2010, and had anthologies

Korean Cuisine and Culinary Customs

of his poems published in Germany and Turkey the following year.

The Korean Wave now seems to be expanding to other cultural

For contemporary Korean novels, the last two decades have

areas such as food and culinary traditions. Restaurants serving

offered novelists precious opportunities to find new readers

traditional Korean dishes began to open in the worlds leading

overseas. Korean novels translated into foreign languages during

metropolises such as New York, London and Paris, attracting praise

the period include Secrets and Lies (Russian, 2009) by Eun

even from the choosiest gourmets. Kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap and

Heekyung, The Rainy Spell, Firewood, and Sailing Without a Mast

other dishes loved by Korean people through many generations

(Swedish, 2009) by Yun Heunggil, and A Distant and Beautiful Place

are now beginning to appear in homes around the world.

(Chinese and Turkish, 2010) and Contradictions (Bulgarian, 2010)

Chefs in some restaurants in the United States began to

by Yang Gui-ja. The opening of the Korean Studies Department

combine traditional Korean dishes with Western traditions,

in Sofia University, Bulgaria, in 1995 led to the interpretation of

creating the bibimbap burger, kimchi hotdog and gochujang steak

a selection of Korean contemporary novels and short stories for

for New Yorkers who are always ready to accept whatevers new

local readers including A Dwarf Launches a Little Ball by Cho Se-

and exotic. Similarly, the number of Korean restaurants increased

hui and Our Twisted Hero by Yi Mun Yol.

to about 100 in Paris alone, with many customers now being local

The global craze for K-Pop has resulted in greater attention

French citizens, although in the past only Korean expatriates and

being paid to Korean literary works and the Korean language,

their Asian friends formed the majority of customers. According to

particularly among young people. The King Sejong Institute,

the latest research, the most popular dishes served by the Korean

an institution established in 2008 to support Korean language

restaurants in Paris are bibimbap and bulgogi of which the former

117

is particularly highly regarded for it nutritional balance as well as

National Museums in Korea

11 Jinju National Museum

Location: Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Closed: Mondays & NYD
jinju.museum.go.kr

its flavor and taste. In July 2012, a special Korean style dinner was
held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London to celebrate

Gongju National Museum

12
Location: Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do
Closed: Mondays & NYD
gongju.museum.go.kr

the London Olympic Games. The 300 or so guests were greatly

14

impressed by the Korean dishes served at the dinner.

10

16
1 15
17

Naju National Museum

13
Location: Naju-si, Jeollanam-do
Closed: Mondays & NYD
naju.museum.go.kr

18
12

5
19
2

6
4

11

Korea National Arboretum

14
Location: Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
Closed: Sundays, Mondays, NYD,
Lunar NYD & Chuseok
www.kna.go.kr
15
National Palace Museum of Korea
Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
Closed: Mondays
www.gogung.go.kr

20 13

118

16
The National Folk Museum of Korea
Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
Closed: Tuesdays & NYD
www.nfm.go.kr

1 National Museum of Korea

6 Daegu National Museum

Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Closed: Mondays & NYD
www.museum.go.kr

Location: Suseong-gu, Daegu

Closed: Mondays & NYD
daegu.museum.go.kr

2 Gyeongju National Museum

7 Cheongju National Museum

Location: Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Closed: Mondays & NYD
gyeongju.museum.go.kr

Location: Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do

Closed: Mondays & NYD
cheongju.museum.go.kr

3 Gwangju National Museum

8 Gimhae National Museum

Location: Buk-gu, Gwangju

Closed: Mondays & NYD
gwangju.museum.go.kr

Location: Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Closed: Mondays & NYD
gimhae.museum.go.kr

4 Jeonju National Museum

9 Jeju National Museum

Location: Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do

Closed: Mondays & NYD
jeonju.museum.go.kr

Location: Jeju-si, Jeju

Closed: Mondays & NYD
jeju.museum.go.kr

5 Buyeo National Museum

10 Chuncheon National Museum

Location: Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Closed: Mondays & NYD
buyeo.museum.go.kr

Location: Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

Closed: Mondays & NYD
chuncheon.museum.go.kr

Location: Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do

Closed: Mondays
www.seamuse.go.kr

National Museum of Korean

17

Contemporary History

Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul

Closed: Mondays & NYD
www.much.go.kr

18
Postal Museum
Location: Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do
Closed: Mondays, Public Holidays,
NYD, Lunar NYD & Chuseok
www.postmuseum.go.kr

The National Lighthouse Museum

19
Location: Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Closed: Mondays, Lunar NYD & Chuseok
www.lighthouse-museum.or.kr
20
National Research Institute of

Maritime Cultural Heritage

119

Tourism

Historical Heritage of Seoul

Tourist Attractions and Shopping Centers
Streets of Youth
Recreation in Nature
Tourist Attractions outside Seoul
Hanok Villages
Major Local Festivals in Korea

4
Tourism

Seoul, the capital of the Republic of Korea, is itself an important

Dancheong
Dancheong is a traditional
method of decorating
various palace and
temple buildings with
intricate patterns of the
five cardinal colors, blue
(symbolizing the east),
white (west), red (south),
black (north) and yellow
(center).
This type of painting also
serves to protect wooden
structures from the
elements.

part of Koreas cultural heritage and the most popular attraction

among overseas visitors to Korea. Although it is now one of the
very largest modern metropolises in the world, its downtown
area is enclosed by historic walls that were originally built over
600 years ago and contains a number of valuable historical
heritage including Royal Palaces, fortress gates, and old
residential districts.

Historical Heritage of Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace
Located at the foot of Bugaksan, the main mountain
overlooking downtown Seoul, Gyeongbokgung was
1

the principal Royal Palace for about 200 years from its

construction in 1395, just three years after the foundation of

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
The main Royal Palace of
Joseon located at the heart
of Seoul
2. Changdeokgung
Palace Garden
A view of the rear garden
of Changdeokgung Palace,
including Buyongjeong and
Juhamnu Pavilions, with
Buyongji Pond situated
between them

122

the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), until it was burnt down just

after the commencement of the Japanese invasion of Korea
in 1592. Thereafter it remained in ruins for 275 years until
1867 when it was restored; but, less than fifty years later, it
fell into the hands of Japanese colonialists who destroyed the
front part of the palace to build the Japanese GovernmentGeneral Building on the site. The latter building, a neo-classical
123

structure, continued to be used to house government offices

even after Korea was liberated in 1945 until it was demolished
in 1996 as part of an effort to remove the remaining vestiges

Geummamun Gate at the

Changdeokgung Palace
Garden in Jongno, Seoul
(left)

of the colonial period. Some of the ruins of the building were

moved to the Independence Hall of Korea in Cheonan, Korea
for public display.
Under a major renovation project to restore the palace
starting in 1990, some of its buildings were restored and its
main gate, Gwanghwamun, was moved to its original location.
Today, the palace features some of the countrys most popular
tourist attractions, including the majestic architectural pieces,
Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion.
Changdeokgung Palace Garden
The rear garden of Changdeokgung Palace, one of the Royal
Palaces of Joseon (1392-1910) still standing in Seoul, has been
widely praised for the harmony between exquisite architectural
structures and its natural surroundings, and is now one of the
most popular tourist attractions in Seoul. The garden, known
as the secret garden (biwon), the forbidden (geumwon) or
rear garden (huwon), was a preferred venue for royal events
such as banquets and picnics. It features a pond and several
exquisite pavilions that were built around it over a long period
of time. The garden was open to the general public until the
mid-1970s, but this caused severe damage which led to its
closure for several years to restore it to its original condition.
Only a part of the garden was reopened to the public in May
2004, but at present visitors need to make reservations in
order to visit.
124

125

Deoksugung Palace
Unlike other Royal Palaces
of Joseon, Deoksugung
contains both Western
style stone buildings
and traditional wooden
structures.

Deoksugung Palace
To most Korean people today Deoksugung Palace is largely
1

connected with the desperate struggle of the Joseon Dynasty

to survive amid the incursions of the major imperial powers at

1. Sungnyemun Gate
2. Heunginjimun Gate
Seoul, the capital of the
Joseon Dynasty, was
protected by a long stone
wall with eight gates, two
of which, Sungnyemun
(Namdaemun or South
Gate) and Heunginjimun
(Dongdaemun or East
Gate), can still be
seen today. The first,
literally Gate of Exalted
Ceremonies, is famous for
being the Korean National
Treasure No. 1, while the
second, Heunginjimun, is
the only one of the eight
fortress gates protected
by a semicircular gateguard wall.

126

the turn of the 19th century. It was in 1897 that King Gojong
proclaimed the launch of the Korean Empire and designated
Deoksugung as the imperial palace after leaving the Russian
legation where he had taken refuge one year earlier in a
desperate attempt to keep his government free from the
interference of Imperial Japan.
With the proclamation of the Korean Empire the palace
began to draw attention from foreign diplomats working in the
legations of the United States, Russia, Great Britain and France
located around it.
Today, the clearest reminder of Deoksugungs short-lived
glory as the only imperial palace in Korean history is the
127

changing of the palace guard ceremony, which takes place three

Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun - East Gate)

times a day except for Mondays. The promenade along the

Situated on the eastern part of the old fortified

southern wall of the palace has been particularly popular among

wall of Seoul, Heunginjimun (Gate of Rising

young people seeking romantic ambiance.

Benevolence) attracts tens of thousands of

people from across Korea and neighboring

Sungnyemun Gate (Namdaemun - South Gate)

countries due both to its historic significance and

Sungnyemun, or the Gate of Exalted Ceremonies, is the south

its proximity to several large markets that have

gate of the old fortress wall that was built to protect the

formed around it, including Gwangjang Market,

capital (todays downtown Seoul) of Joseon. It is the largest

Pyeonghwa Market, Sinpyeonghwa Market and

of the old fortress gates still standing in Korea today, and was

Dongdaemun Market.

designated as the National Treasure No. 1 in 1962. The pavilion-

All of these markets are par ticularly

style wooden building forming the upper part of the gate was

famous for the diverse fashion items they

severely damaged by arson in February 2008, but was it was

offer, clothes and accessories in particular.

returned to its original form after a full-scale restoration project

Co m p a re d w i t h d e p a r t m e n t s t o re s t h a t

that took five years to complete.

usually sell higher-priced luxury products, these markets have

The gate is often associated with the large complex of

shopping facilities formed around it, including a traditional

numerous wholesalers who supply competitively-priced good-

Dongdaemun
Shopping Mall

quality products to retailers across Korea.

market which has steadily grown into a major tourist attraction.

128

The area is always bustling with Korean and international

Tourist Attractions and Shopping Centers

shoppers seeking to purchase clothes, kitchen wares, domestic

Insa-dong

appliances and other commodities offered at reasonably low

Insa-dong is a district in downtown Seoul that is packed

prices despite their good quality. Many of the shops doing

with antique shops, antiquarian booksellers, art galleries,

business in the area run their own factories to maintain

scroll mounters, craft workshops, brush shops, traditional

competitive pricing of the products they deal in.

teahouses, restaurants and bars that provide tourists with ample

The Namdaemun Market currently houses over 9,300 stores

opportunities for an exciting cultural experience. The district had

and attracts over 500,000 shoppers a day. It has formed a huge

many places frequented by Korea artists, writers and journalists

international trading network of Korean merchants scattered

which have now begun to attract tourists from around the

around the world, spending and earning a large amount of

country and beyond. The Seoul Metropolitan Government

money through imports and exports.

designated Insa-dong as a District of Traditional Culture in 1988

129

and turns it into a car-free zone every weekend to create a more

comfortable environment for visitors.
Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong has long been the busiest and most thriving
shopping district in Korea where high-end shops and luxurious
boutiques attract shoppers from all across Korea and tourists
from different countries in Asia with luxury goods, brand
garments, cosmetics, shoes, fashion accessories and souvenirs.
The district has also been the national hub of finance and
culture as well as commerce since the Korean War (1950-1953)
and, in the 1970s and 1980s, was frequented by Koreas most
energetic, fashion-conscious, outgoing people.
The position of Myeong-dong in the Korean fashion industry
has dwindled somewhat in recent times, but its influence on the
Korean fashion market remains significant. Many of the worlds
top fashion brands maintain or have opened new stores in the
district, winning back fashion-minded shoppers from the newly
emerging fashion streets in the Gangnam area as well tourists
from overseas. The district also contains Myeongdong Cathedral,
established in 1898 and a central figure to all Korean Catholics,
and the historic Chinese Embassy.
Apgujeong Rodeo Street
Named after Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, and home to some of
the most prestigious fashion stores in the region, Rodeo Street in
Apgujeong-dong is widely regarded as the mecca of Korean fashion
and a trendsetter in Korea. Rodeo Street is packed with luxury stores,
including the flagship stores of the worlds top fashion brands, and
130

1
2

1. Insa-dong
One of the most popular
destinations among
foreign tourists in Seoul,
the district is packed
with antique shops, art
galleries, craft workshops,
traditional teahouses,
restaurants and bars.
2. Myeong-dong
Koreas busiest fashion
district and the number
one attraction among
international shoppers
visiting Seoul

131

upscale restaurants, cafes and bars. The street also contains stores
selling special fashion items sought after by young fashionistas,
and fully meets all the diverse needs of shoppers. In October, the
street is transformed into the main venue for the Apgujeong Culture
Festival which presents movies, hair shows, fashion shows, dance
competitions and other exciting cultural events.

Streets of Youth
Jongno and Cheonggyecheon
Jongno was one of the two districts, the other being Myeongdong, that typified the early economic and cultural vibrancy of
Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. There were, and still are, between
todays Jongno 2(i)-ga and 3(sam)-ga some of Seouls oldest
movie theaters, the nations major bookstores, and famous private
educational institutions including foreign language schools which
keep the districts perpetually crowded with students.
Cheonggyecheon, a historic stream cutting across the heart

drawing young music lovers from all across Seoul, gradually

of Seoul, was restored and remodeled a few years ago and quickly

turning it into one of Seouls most dynamic cultural areas packed

emerged as one of the citys top attractions. In the past the

with fun-seeking youngsters. What differentiate the streets of

stream was a source of water for the families living around it,

Hongdae from other similar districts are the live performances

but it began to be covered over in the 1950s, and the overpass

of indie bands held at the clubs scattered around the district. The

built over it came to be regarded as a symbol of Koreas industrial

bands cover a variety of popular music genres, including rock,

growth during the 1960s and 1970s. The overpass, however, was

funk and techno music, for the young audiences that gather there

demolished in 2003 as part of the project to restore the stream,

every evening.

which was completed two years later.

1. Cheonggyecheon
Stream Plaza
An attractive space
for relaxation and
refreshment in the heart
of downtown Seoul
2. Hongdae District
Streets crowded with
young and ambitious
artists and spectators

The Hongdae district also contains numerous art galleries

committed to displaying original works by emerging young

132

Hongdae Street (Hongik University Street)

artists. Some of these artists join with others devoted to other

It was during the early 1990s that Hongdae, or the area around

forms of art such as music and dance, to put on collaboration

Hongik University, saw an explosion of cafes and live music clubs

performances in the streets.

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Garosu-gil Street of Sinsa-dong

of them providing exotic, at least to Korean visitors, foods from

Literally the tree-lined street of Sinsa-dong, Sinsa-dong Garosu-

Mexico, India, Vietnam and Turkey among other countries, and a

gil is a street in Sinsa-dong in Gangnam-gu that is lined with

distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere. The district was designated

gingko trees on both sides. The street and nearby alleys have

by the Korean government as a Special Tourist Zone in 1997, and

recently grown into one of Seouls main attractions, attracting

has since then held the Global Village Festival every October.

tens of thousands of fashion-minded people to its array of high-

Furthermore, street performances are held for foreign tourists on

end coffee houses, art galleries, luxury boutiques and other

a daily basis

1
2

1. Garosu-gil of Sinsa-dong
A street busy with fashionminded young shoppers
2. Itaewon
The Korean hub of
international cultures

fashion stores every day.

In the 1990s Garosu-gil began to attract ambitious young
fashion designers, who opened shops along the road, eventually
transforming it into a fashion street. The success of their shops
was followed by the opening of other shops vending exquisite
interior objects, furniture and personal fashion items.
Itaewon
Itaewon, located south of Namsan Mountain in the heart of
Seoul, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city,
particularly among foreign tourists seeking shopping, fun and
thrills in more comfortable surroundings. The development of
the district and the growth of its reputation among international
travelers visiting Korea are largely related with the presence,
since the Korean War (1950-1953), of the Eighth United States
Army Base in nearby Yongsan. Today the district, encompassing
Itaewon and nearby Hannam-dong, contains a number of foreign
embassies including those of Germany, Denmark, Argentina,
Rumania, Uruguay, Lebanon, Hungary, Brunei and Qatar, as well as
the Seoul Central Mosque and diverse foreign communities.
Itaewons streets are packed with shops selling fashionable
clothes and fashion items, nightclubs, bars and restaurants, many
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Recreation in Nature

northern most part of the peninsula to characterize geographical

Jirisan Mountain

features of the south. The mountain has been widely admired

The highest and largest mountain in mainland South Korea, Jirisan

for its majestic appearance and dense forests providing natural

Mountain consists of numerous scenic peaks, including its highest

habitats for rare animal and plant species such as the Siberian

Cheonwangbong Peak (1,915m), Nogodan and Banyabong Peaks,

musk deer, Korean goral, Asian birch, and the Royal Azalea.

and ridges and valleys extending for 40km from east to west. The

The mountains main ridges, running from its tallest peak

mountain borders three provinces, Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do and

Cheonwangbong in the east to Nogodan Peak in the west, form

Gyeongsangnam-do, and its forests account for about 20% of all

deep valleys brimming with the headwaters of some of Koreas

forestry in Korea. It was designated as Koreas first National Park

main rivers, Nakdonggang, Seomjingang and Namgang. Some of

in 1967.

these valleys are home to undisturbed forests, notably Piagol and

Jirisan Mountain is located at the southern end of the Baekdu

A spring view of Jirisan
Mountain

Daegan, a great mountain range that forms the backbone of the

(Source: Korea National Park

Service)

Korean Peninsula, running down from Baekdusan Mountain in the

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Baemsagol, creating breathtakingly scenic views that attract over

two million hikers every year.
Jirisan Mountain contains natural habitats for various animal

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Waterfall at Seoraksan
Mountain
(Sokcho, Gangwon)

and plant species which represent the ecological health and

middle of the Baekdu Daegan, a great mountain range forming

balance of the mountain, including endangered animals such

the backbone of the Korean Peninsula, with its tallest peak

Landscape of Seoraksan
Mountain
(Sokcho, Gangwon)

as the Siberian musk deer and Korean goral, and some of the

Daecheongbong (1,708m) overlooking Koreas eastern coast.

(Source: Korea National Park

Service)

Koreas biggest natural attractions such as the immense colony of

The mountain is characterized by rocky peaks and cliffs

royal azaleas covering the highland plain of Seseok Pyeongjeon,

displaying grotesque shapes and deep valleys containing pools

the dense ancient forest of Piagol, the aged wind-stripped trees

of crystal clear water which have led to it being compared with

scattered around high peaks creating unreal, eerie landscapes. This

Geumgangsan, or the Diamond Mountain in the North, which

priceless natural heritage embraces some of Koreas most valuable

has long been admired as Koreas number one scenic mountain.

cultural assets, including historic Buddhist temples housing a

wealth of historical and cultural treasures.

The mountain covers a vast area on the mid-eastern part of

the Korean Peninsula which is divided into three areas, namely,
Oeseorak (Outer Snowy Mountain) in the east of Daecheongbong

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Seoraksan Mountain

Peak, Naeseorak (Inner Snowy Mountain) in the west, and

South Koreas third highest mountain after Hallasan Mountain

Namseorak (Southern Snowy Mountain), which contains the

and Jirisan Mountain, Seoraksan Mountain is located in the

famous mineral spring called Osaek Mineral Springs in the south.

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A nighttime view of
N Seoul Tower and an
octagonal pavilion at
Namsan Mountain (right)

The mountain also contains the source of the Namdaecheon

Stream, which flows through the Yangyang area into the East
Sea, and the Bukhangang and Soyanggang Rivers, which flow
westwards to form the Hangang River which cuts across Seoul.
Seoraksan Mountain provides a safe haven for many native
or endangered species such as the Manchurian trout, Korean
minnow, diamond bluebell (geumgang chorong), and edelweiss.
The mountain was designated as a National Park in 1970 and
registered on the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by
UNESCO in 1970. It is also home to many historic, cultural and
natural heritage including Buddhist temples such as Baekdamsa,
Sinheungsa and Bongjeongam, which is one of the five temples
enshrining the relics of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha,
Heundeulbawi Rock, and Ulsanbawi Rock , an 873-meter-tall
rocky peak of majestic appearance.
Seoraksan Mountain is famous for the breathtakingly beautiful
landscapes created by its mountain peaks, deep valleys, stunning
rock formations, and historic Buddhist temples which draw millions
of hikers from all across the country every year. Meanwhile,
in Seorak-dong, a tourist town located on the foot of the
mountain containing an entrance to it, there is a fine network of
accommodations and recreational facilities that form a convenient
environment for tourists and hikers. Tourism in Seoraksan is
typically connected with the presence of Goseong Unification
Observatory, which is located close to the DMZ on the east coast.
Namsan Mountain and Bukhansan Mountain
Namsan Mountain, a 262-meter-tall mountain standing in the
heart of Seoul, is home to a number of attractive walking trails

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141

appreciated by the citizens of Seoul for hundreds of years. The

popular venues for various outdoor activities, hiking and rock

mountain is dense with trees that provide an abundance of

climbing in particular.

fresh air and flowers all year round. It usually takes about one

Rock climbing at
Bukhansan Mountain
(Source: Korea National Park
Service)

142

hour to reach the summit via any of the paths, although one

Rivers of Korea

may opt to take the cable car. At the top of the mountain there

Two large watercourses originating from the mid-eastern

are several fine vantage points overlooking downtown Seoul,

mountainous region of the Korean Peninsula merge together

including the N Seoul Tower (or Namsan Tower), one of Seouls

to become the Hangang, or the Hangang River, which passes

most popular attractions where visitors can enjoy exceptional

through Seoul before flowing into the West Sea . The rivers have

panoramic views of Seoul and, weather permitting, Incheon and

provided water for all the fields and factories in and outside the

the West Sea coast, as well as a historic beacon fire station used

capital area and drinking water for many cities within it including

for long-distance communications during the Joseon Period

Seoul. The rivers are installed with multiple dams including those

(1392-1910). At the foot of the mountain there are several

for flood control and generating power.

cultural institutions such as the National Theater of Korea, Seoul

The longest river on the Korean Peninsula is the Nakdonggang

Municipal Library, and Namsangol Hanok Village. The Bukhansan

which cuts a 520km-long course across Gyeongsangbuk-do

National Park on the northern part of Seoul also provides

and Gyeongsangnam-do before flowing into the South Sea. Its

A view of the setting sun

over Yeongsangang River,
the main source of water
for the southwest of Korea

143

estuary contains a large delta called Eulsukdo where reeds grow

only province of Korea where mandarin oranges are grown

densely, forming Asias largest bird sanctuary. Other major rivers

in natural conditions, providing a great source of income for

in Korea include the Geumgang and Yeongsangang Rivers which

many households since the 1960s. It was an extremely popular

provide water for Koreas largest granary in the southwest, and

honeymoon destination among mainland Koreans during the

the Imjingang, Mangyeonggang and Seomjingang Rivers, which

1970s and 1980s, and has since grown into one of Koreas top

also constitute important sources of water for the rest of Korea.

tourist attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of tourists

from neighboring countries including Japan and China. In 2006,

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Jejudo Island

the Korean government designated the island as Jeju Special

Jejudo(do is Korean for island), Koreas largest island (approx.

Self-Governing Province in an effort to turn it into a Free Trade

73km from east to west, 31km from south to north), lies in

Zone. It is now a very popular venue for important international

the Korean Strait, southwest of the Korean mainland. The

gatherings including summit meetings.

oval-shaped island maintains a rich cultural heritage that is

Jejudo was formed by a series of volcanic eruptions and

distinctly different from that of the mainland. It is also the

is rich with the distinctive features of volcanic topography

1. Baengnokdam Crater
Lake of Hallasan Mountain
A cauldron-shaped volcanic
crater (111m in depth and
1,720m in circumference)
atop Hallasan Mountain
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong
Tuff Cone
One of many parasitic
cones scattered around Jeju

145

including 368 oreum (parasitic cones) and about 160 lava tubes.

forests provide natural habitats for rare plants, some of which are

This unique natural heritage led to the islands inclusion on the

suited to cold climates while others are more typical of tropical

UNESCOs World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2002, World

or subtropical areas. These untouched, densely wooded forests are

Heritage Sites in 2007, and Global Geoparks Network in 2010.

often referred to as the lungs of Jeju.

The worldwide recognition of Jejudo as a global natural heritage

The Jungmun Tourist Complex located on the southern coast

is expected to further promote the value of the island as a tourist

in Seogwipo boasts many fascinating places and facilities for a

destination and as one of Koreas key environmental assets.

variety of outdoor activities, including swimming and sunbathing,

Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano, soars upwards from

golfing, horse riding and hunting, world-class hotels, and

the center of Jejudo to a height of 1,950 meters, making it the

enchanting natural attractions such as the three-tier waterfalls of

highest mountain in South Korea. The mountain is home to over

Cheonjeyeon and coastal columnar jointing. A new attraction was

1,800 species of alpine plants that select their habitats according

added to the already long list recently when one of Asias largest

to altitude and exhibits great diversity of vegetation. The mountain

aquariums, Aqua Planet, was opened in July 2012 at Seopjikoji

largely consists of basalt, and slopes steeply in the south and more

Beach in Seongsan-eup.

gently in the north. There is a crater-lake, Baengnokdam, at the top

with over 50 parasitic cones scattered around it.

Olle Trail, comprises a set of nature trails along the coast that

Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, situated at the eastern tip

lead hikers to fascinating views of Jeju, old villages and fields

of Jejudo, is probably the most popular tourist attraction on the

enclosed or separated by basalt stone walls, coastal seas where

island. This 182-meter-tall volcanic peak is said to resemble a

elderly women divers (haenyeo, sea women) harvest seafood

huge amphitheater with a deep, bowl-like center filled with reeds

beneath the sea, and waves of wind rolling through fields of long

and rimmed with rocky cliffs. Many visitors also compare this

grass (Jeju has been called Samdado, literally, the island of three

popular sunrise celebration venue, which is now designated as a

abundances, namely, stones, women, and wind).

Natural Monument, with a heavily fortified, impregnable castle or

a tall, full-circle tiara.

146

One of the islands main attractions, the recently created Jeju

Jejudo is famous for its many special farming and marine

products of which the prickly palm cactus (Opuntia ficusindica),

Other key attractions reflecting the natural wonders of Jeju

also known as baengnyeoncho (hundred-year plant), has recently

include Yongcheondonggul Cave, located in Woljeong-ri of Gujwa-

amazed many scientists of the world for its extraordinary

eup, which exhibits a unique combination of the characteristic

beneficial effects on human health. For some Korean tourists, Jeju

features of both lime caves and lava tubes, the lime caves in

is significant in that it has jurisdiction over the southernmost part

Hyeopjae and Pyoseon, and the Gotjawal forests which formed

of the Korean territory, a tiny island called Marado located about

on the rocky areas thrown up during a volcanic eruption. These

10km off its southwestern coast, and Ieodo, a submerged rock 4.6
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1
2

1. Dodong Port in
Ulleungdo
A volcanic island lying in
the East Sea
2. Dokdo (Ulleung,
Gyeongsangbuk-do)
Dokdo consists of two
rocky islets, Dongdo and
Seodo, situated about
150 meters apart, and 89
rocky outcrops around
them.

meters below sea level located 149km southwest of Marado, the

location of the Ieodo Ocean Research Station.
Ulleungdo and Dokdo
Located about 130km east of the Korean Peninsula, Ulleungdo
is a volcanic island of about 72km2 that is rimmed with steep
rocky cliffs and has a basin (called Nari Basin) on the top. It is
historically connected with a group of rocky islets called Dokdo
situated 87.4km to its southeast, thus forming the easternmost
part of the Korean territory. Now guarded by the Dokdo Coast
Guard, Dokdo consists of two large rocky islets and eighty-nine
small rocks, and is home to about seventy plant species, although
most of the islets are barren. It was designated as the Dokdo
Seabird Breeding Area and Natural Monument No. 336 in 1982
and then as the Dokdo Protection Area in 1999.
Hallyeosudo (Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park)
The area of coastal seas ranging from Yeosu in Jeollanam-do to
Hansando in Gyeongsangnam-do has long been praised for its
breathtakingly beautiful seascapes characterized by sparkling
blue seas, islands of all sizes, fantastically-shaped rocky cliffs, and
dramatic coastlines. The area is also famous as the habitat of
diverse marine species, and became Koreas first national marine
park in 1968.
Yeosu, one of Koreas leading industrial cities and host of the

Odongdo Camellia
Odongdo, a tiny islet just
off Yeosu, has about 3,000
camellia trees that remain
in bloom from October to
mid-winter.

148

World Expo in 2012, contains some of the most popular tourist

attractions in the national marine park such as Odongdo, a tiny
islet covered with camellia trees, beautiful beaches, and historic
sites related with the victories of the Joseon navy, under the
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Hallyeosudo
Koreas first national
marine park - famous for
the spectacular seascapes
created by many
differently-sized islands
floating on blue seas.

leadership of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, against the Japanese forces that

invaded Korea in 1592. A new attraction was added in February

Metasequoia Forest
Walkway on Namiseom
Island

2013 with the opening of Yi Sun-sin Bridge, the worlds fourth

longest bridge, connecting two of the largest industrial cities in
the area, Yeosu and Gwangyang.
Namiseom Island
Namiseom Island - located 3.8km south of Gapyeong-gun,
Gyeonggi-do, in the middle of a large artificial lake created
by Cheongpyeong Dam, built in 1943 - has become a very
popular tourist attraction among Hallyu (Korean Wave) fans
across Asia thanks to the huge success of the TV series Winter
Sonata, parts of which were filmed here. The island is dense
with trees including Korean nut pine, dawn redwood, white

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151

Zone (DMZ), which is 250km long and approximately 4km wide,

i.e. 2km on the Souths side and another 2km on the Norths.
On the western part of the DMZ there is a farming village
called Daeseongdong, better known as Freedom Village among
South Koreans. The western part of the DMZ also contains the
Panmunjeom where the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement was
signed. It is now known as the Joint Security Area (JSA) which
only those holding a permit issued by the Military Armistice
Commission (MAC) are allowed to visit. The prohibition of public
access to the DMZ for the last 60 years has helped maintain
the environment in pristine condition, a quality for which in
recent times it has attracted the interest of scientists and
conservationists the world over.

Tourist Attractions outside Seoul

Gyeongju, the Millennium Capital
Gyeongju in Gyeongsangbuk-do was once the capital of the
ancient Korean Kingdom of Silla (57 BCE 935) for about
one millennium, and contains a great wealth of heritage sites
Prayer ribbons tied to a
barbed wire fence located
between the DMZ and
Freedom Bridge

birch and gingko, creating a number of romantic nature trails.

and relics that reflect its remarkable cultural achievements.

In addition to walking, the island offers visitors places and

The remaining historical and cultural heritage led to the citys

facilities for various indoor and outdoor activities including

registration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, under the name

cycling courses, art galleries, museums, craft workshops,

of the Gyeongju Historic Areas, in 2000. Tangible evidences of

bungalows and campsites.

Sillas cultural glory include Bulguksa Temple, which was founded

to represent the ideal world of Buddhism which Sillas people

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Korean Demilitarized Zone

aspired to, Seokguram, a man-made grotto admired for its

The cessation of the Korean War in 1953, following the signing

unique architectural structure and outstanding sculptural works,

of the Korean Armistice Agreement, led to the creation of the

and Cheomseongdae, which is regarded as Asias oldest extant

Military Demarcation Line (MDL) and the Korean Demilitarized

astronomical observatory.
153

The royalty and aristocracy of Silla left behind large tombs in

and around todays Gyeongju. Archaeologists discovered priceless
treasures in some of these tombs, such as the image of a heavenly
horse painted on a piece of white birch bark (Cheonmachong
Tomb), and gold crowns lavishly decorated with exquisite and
advanced skills (Geumgwanchong Tomb). Apart from the fabulous
archaeological discoveries, these ancient tombs clustered in
downtown Gyeongju create fantastic and fascinating landscapes
in themselves.
Silla Buddhists in the 8th century made a great temple bell
now known to be the Sacred Bell of Great King Seongdeok.
As well as its imposing size, the bell is known for having several
unique devices designed to help produce a clear, long lingering
sound when struck, such as the sound pipe, and elaborate
carvings decorating the outer surface of its body. Some of the
most valuable treasures of Silla Buddhism, stone images and
pagodas in particular, can be seen in Namsan, making Gyeongjus
guardian mountain one of the holiest places of Korean Buddhism.

1
2

Gongju and Buyeo, Capitals of Baekje

Gongju and Buyeo are two cities in Chungcheongnam-do,

1. Namsan Mountain in
Gyeongju
A seated Buddha image
carved on a rock face on
Namsan Mountain

each of which served as the capital city of the ancient Korean

2. Tomb of King
Muryeong (Gongju,
Chungcheongnam-do)
The burial chamber of the
tomb of King Muryeong,
the 25th ruler of Baekje,
and his consort shows the
influence of the Chinese
Southern Dynasties.

are best represented by the Tomb of King Muryeong and other

154

Kingdom of Baekje during the period from the late 5th to the
7th century. The cultural achievements of Baekje in this period
ancient tombs in Gongju, Nakhwaam Rock, and Gungnamji
Pond in Buyeo.
The Ancient Tombs in Songsan-ri, Gongju consist of seven
tombs of Baekjes royalty including that of King Muryeong and
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1
2

his consort. Archaeologists discovered inside the tomb a wealth

of precious burial objects preserved in near original condition that

1. Hahoe Byeolsingut
Tallori
A traditional mask dance
preserved in Hahoe Village
in Andong that satirizes
the corrupt ruling elite of
Joseon society

now provide important clues to the lifestyle of Baekjes people.

2. Yangdong Village in
Gyeongju
A village that has
maintained the traditional
lifestyle for over 500 years

countries. Other Baekje heritage sites preserved in the city,

Buyeo, which was the last capital of Baekje for 123 years until
660, also contains valuable relics dating from the cultural heyday
of a Kingdom that exerted a powerful influence on neighboring
including Nakhwaam Rock, which is connected with the last days
of Baekje, and Gungnamji containing the features of a Baekje
palace garden, have now become major tourist attractions.
Hahoe Village in Andong and Yangdong Village in Gyeongju
In 2010, two old villages, Hahoe in Andong and Yangdong in
Gyeongju, were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites,

Seonyu Julbullori
This traditional firework
festival involves hanging
up bags of mulberry root
charcoal powder upon
four long (approx. 230m)
ropes hung between
Mangsongjeong Pavilion
on the riverbank of
Nakdonggang and the
summit of Buyongdae
Terrace across the river.

under the title Historic Villages of Korea. The villages were

created and developed by a few influential aristocratic families
of Joseon, and still preserve the original living conditions in
which the houses and their environments were built hundreds
of years ago. Each village was established in a site chosen
according to the traditional principles of feng shui, i.e. "Mountain
Behind and Water in Front", and consisted of dwelling houses
with family shrines, communal academies,
pavilions. It also had farming fields around it
which provided the villagers with all the basic
necessities they needed.
Hahoe Village in Andong was formed in
the 17th century when some families of the
Pungsan Ryu Clan settled there. The village,
now containing about 450 traditional tile-

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157

roofed or thatched houses, is surrounded by the Nakdonggang

1
2
3

River, with pine trees crowding the riverbank, creating a beautiful

1. Bukchon Hanok Village

2. Jeonju Hanok Village
3. Seongyojang House in
Gangneung
4. Bukchon guesthouse

rural landscape. The village is also connected with a traditional

performance, byeolsingut tallori, which is performed to invoke
divine help for the villages safety and prosperity, and seonyu
julbullori, a local firework festival held at riverside beaches.
The other historical village, Yangdong, located 16km northeast
of Gyeongju, has a history of about 500 years. It consists of
about 160 traditional houses, both tile-roofed and thatched, and
is surrounded by attractive natural surroundings, shallow valleys
and gentle hills. The village is prized not only for its attractive old
houses but also for other heritage that preserve the influence of
Confucian ideology and ancient customs.

Hanok Villages
The recent revival of interest in modernized traditional Korean
houses (called hanok) among architectural designers and house

Tourism Korea
The number of foreign visitors to
Korea has increased rapidly in recent
years, rising from 5 million in 2001
to more than 12 million in 2013.

Number of foreign tourists in Korea

Unit: 1,000

12,170

Source: Korea Tourism

Organization

11,140

9,790

Observers believe that the

increase is largely connected with
Hallyu (Korean Wave) fans from

5,140

across Asia and people seeking

advanced medical services and

2001

2011

2012

2013

shopping in Korea.

158

159

buyers from across Korea has also helped attract numerous tourists

famous for its exquisite, fully preserved 300-year-old buildings and

to Koreas old villages and districts where they can experience the

well-tended traditional garden. Built by a minor member of Joseon

traditional Korean lifestyle in an authentic environment. Two of

royalty and still used as a dwelling house by one of his descendants,

the most popular destinations for enthusiasts are Bukchon Hanok

Seongyojang is regarded as a fine example of a dwelling of the wealthy

Village in Seoul and Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju.

ruling class of Joseon. It also consists of rooms such as an inner quarter

Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul refers to a residential area

(anchae) for women, detached outer quarter (sarangchae) for guest

located north of the Jongno and Cheonggyecheon Stream area in

receptions, servants quarter (haengnangchae) for servants and separate

downtown Seoulhence the nameonce occupied by wealthy

rooms (byeoldang), as well as an artificial pond at the entrance and a

aristocratic families during the Joseon Period. The area has become

pavilion called Hwallaejeong.

one of Seouls main tourist attractions, largely because of the oldworld atmosphere and the well-preserved traditional houses and

Local Festivals

the narrow winding alleys linking them. Flanked by the two main

As in many other parts of the world, local communities in Korea

Royal Palaces of Joseon, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, with

have developed a variety of cultural programs and events to

Andong International
Maskdance Festival
This festival contributes
to the effort to preserve
and revive the Hahoe
byeolsingut tallori and
boost other mask-related
cultural activities around
the world.

Inwangsan and Bukhansan Mountains rising directly behind them,

and modern skyscrapers in the south, the district exhibits a unique
harmony between Seouls present and past.
The largest Hanok district in Korea and one of the most
popular tourist destinations among visitors is that in Jeonju.
The Jeonju Hanok Village consists of about 700 traditional tileroofed houses, some of which have been turned into guesthouses,
restaurants, teahouses and workshops, providing visitors with
opportunities to experience the local cultural heritage. The district
also contains some of the citys most important heritage sites
such as Gyeonggijeon Shrine, which houses the official portrait
of King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty, a local Confucian
school (hyanggyo), and Omokdae Terrace, which commands a
great view of the entire district.
There are but a few mansion houses dating from the Joseon Period
across Korea, of which Seongyojang in Gangneung is particularly
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161

Boryeong Mud Festival

One of the most popular
summer festivals in Korea
today, the Boryeong Mud
Festival attracts tens of
thousands of international
holidaymakers every year.

162

mark their achievements or to celebrate the cultural and natural

Yudeung Festival has begun to serve a similar function. Held

heritage bequeathed to them. In Boryeong in Chungcheongnam-

to commemorate the ordinary people of Jinju, who fought

do, for instance, the local mud festival attracts summer

heroically to protect their hometown against invading Japanese

holidaymakers from all over Korea and from overseas, while in

forces during the Imjin Waeran (Japanese Invasion of 1592)

Andong of Gyeongsangbuk-do the annual international mask

at the turn of the 16th century, the festival provides tourists

dance festival entertains tourists visiting the city.

with fantastic nighttime views of lanterns floating along the

Other popular festivals include the Gimje Horizon Festival,

Namgang River. In Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, the Chuncheon

which is focused on the local agricultural heritage preserved

International Mime Festival (CIMF) offers an exciting range of

in Gimje, Jeollabuk-do, the Jeonju Hanji Culture Festival, and

performances presented by mime theater companies gathered

the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival, which is held to celebrate the

for the event from across the world.

heritage that has helped the city of Jeonju gain an international

reputation. In Jinju of Gyeongsangnam-do, the Jinju Namgang

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Major Local Festivals in Korea

6
3
4

7
1

6
9
10

10

5
Please visit www.visitkorea.or.kr
for further information
on Koreas diverse festivals.
164

Chungcheongnam-do

Gyeongsangnam-do

1. Cheonan World Dance Festival

The festival entertains visitors with exciting festive
events related to folk dances of the world.
Period: Sep 30-Oct 5, 2014.
Venue: Cheonan Samgeori Park, and Arario Park,
Cheongan-si
Website: cheonanfestival.com

6. Hadong Wild Tea Cultural Festival

This festival holds various entertaining events and
programs focusing on the Korean tradition of tea
drinking.
Period: May 16-18, 2014
Venue: Hadong Tea Culture Center,
Hwagae-myeong and Agyang-myeon

in Hadong-gun
Website: festival.hadong.go.kr

2. Geumsan Insam Festival

This autumn festival focused on health and
wellbeing presents an array of experience-based
events and competitions related with insam,
Korean ginseng grown in Geumsan.
Period: Sep 19-28, 2014.
Venue: Ginseng and Herbal Street, and Ginseng

Expo Square, Geumsan-gun
Website: www.insamfestival.co.kr

Gangwon-do
3. Hwasan Sancheoneo Ice Festival
This winter festival held on the frozen
Hwacheoncheon Stream provides visitors with
various fun events including an ice fishing contest
and a competition to catch mountain trout with
ones bare hands.
Period: Jan 4-26, 2014.
Venue: Hwacheoncheon Stream and five eup and

myeon districts in Hwacheon
Website: www.narafestival.com
4. Chuncheon International Mime Festival
This festival presents a variety of performing arts
and merrymaking events highlighting the human
body as a powerful artistic medium.
Period: May 25-Jun 1, 2014
Venue: Chuncheon-si
Website: www.mimefestival.com
5. Yangyang Pine Mushroom Festival
This festival celebrates the season of pine
mushrooms with a range of exciting activities
related with this special local product of Yangyang.
Period: Oct 1-5, 2014
Venue: Vicinity of Namdaecheon Stream in
Yangyang-gun
Website: song-i.yangyang.go.kr

7. Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival

Launched to mark the tradition of floating lanterns
on the Namgang River during the Japanese Invasion
in 1592, this festival offers a range of exciting
history-based events including an exhibition of
traditional lanterns from around the world, floating
river lanterns, and a fireworks display.
Period: Oct 1-12, 2014
Venue: Vicinity of Namgang River, Jinju
Website: www.yudeung.com

Jeollabuk-do
8. Gimje Horizon Festival
This festival offers a variety of experience-oriented
events and programs focused on local agricultural
traditions.
Period: Oct 1-5, 2014
Venue: Byeokgolje Plaza, Gimje
Website: festival.gimje.go.kr

Jeollanam-do
9. Hampyeong Butterfly Festival
The festival presents diverse exhibitions and fun
events centered on flowers and butterflies.
Period: May 2-11, 2014
Venue: Hampyeong Expo Park, Hampyeong-gun
Website: www.hampyeong.go.kr
10. Gangjin Celadon Festival
This festival holds various activities and programs
aimed at the preservation and further development
of the cultural heritage of Goryeo celadon.
Period: Jul 26 Aug 3, 2014
Venue: Goryeo Celadon Kiln Sites in Gangjin
Website: www.gangjinfes.or.kr
165

Sports

How South Korea Became a Sporting Powerhouse

1988 Seoul Summer Olympics
2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan
2011 World Championships in Athletics
2012 London Summer Olympics
2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics
Taekwondo

5
Sports

South Koreas national team surprised the world by ranking 5th

place in the medals table (gold, silver and bronze) at the 2012
London Summer Olympics. It is also worth noting that the team
won the soccer bronze medal at those Games. The potential
of the countrys soccer is explained by the presence of several
South Korean players in European football (soccer) leagues. Also,
at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the South Korean team won the
gold medal for baseball with several South Korean players now
enjoying great popularity among fans in the United States and
Japan as members of local teams.
Asians used to do poorly in figure skating, but Yuna Kim, a
South Korean changed that by breaking world records in the
discipline. In fencing, which used to be regarded as a sport for
2

1
3

1. Shin-soo Choo is an
outfielder for the Texas
Rangers of the Major
League Baseball of the
United States.
2. Yuna Kim won the
World Figure Skating
Championships in 2013.
3. In-bee Park was selected
as the LPGA Player of the
Year in 2013.

168

westerners and the nobility, South Korean athletes have won

many medals. It is a well-known fact that many South Koreans
have won both the PGA and LPGA championships. It is also
noteworthy that three or four Koreans continually rank in the
top ten at each LPGA championship. Formula 1 also visited Korea
between 2010 and 2013 with the Korean Grand Prix held at
Yeongam, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. And another international
sporting event held in South Korea is the Tour de Korea, an annual
professional road bicycle stage race.
169

How South Korea Became a Sporting Powerhouse

The most important factors behind South Koreas transformation

Changes in the number of neighborhood sports clubs and their members

into a sporting powerhouse are the countrys large number of sports

lovers and efficient investment. The country strives to find promising

93

95

98

98

83

82
75

young athletes, train them efficiently, and help them build their skills
by accumulating a wealth of experience in domestic competitions.

90
4,132

3,646
2,702

2,914

2,985

3,081

3,086

3,081

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

There are also professional sporting facilities dedicated solely to the

training of athletes selected for international events such as the
Olympic Games or the Asian Games.

Clubs

National Sports Infrastructure

Members

2012

2013

(Unit: Thousands of clubs and people/

Source: Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism)

Many South Korean soccer lovers gather together early in the

morning of a holiday to enjoy the sport. Teams from neighboring

As of 2013, the number of ordinary sports lovers clubs came to

villages often take part in games and tournaments with the

4.13 million, i.e. 8.1% of the entire population. The number of

number of teams composed of neighbors currently standing at

soccer lovers who have joined clubs (590,000) is at the top of the

about 500,000.

list, followed by the number of members of tennis, badminton,

The countrys sports infrastructure is solid and wide-ranging.

Chuncheon Marathon
Held in Chuncheon,
Gangwon-do every
October

table tennis, gate ball, and daily calisthenics clubs.

Olle Trail in Jeju
A hiking course in Jejudo
Island
Olle is a local word
from the Jeju dialect that
refers to a narrow path
between a thoroughfare
and the entrance of a
house. Ms. Seo Myeongsuk, a journalist, started
using the word for
mountain hiking courses
on the island after
drawing inspiration from
the pilgrimage trail to
Santiago de Compostela
in northern Spain.
(Source: Jeju Olle Foundation)

170

171

The government strives to encourage people to engage in

many popular rock climbing spots.

more positive physical activities by providing support for sports

In recent years, the hilly trails of Jejudo Island have emerged

clubs. Most sports clubs hold events from time to time. Over

as a favorite destination for hikers. Amid the new hiking boom,

the past few years, the number of marathon clubs has increased

local governments have vied with each other in their efforts to

drastically. In spring and fall, marathon competitions are held

establish good hiking paths. Bike riding has also become the focus

every weekend all over the country. An amateur marathon

of attention as an environmentally friendly sport, and the number

competition attracts thousands or even tens of thousands of

of cycling clubs has increased accordingly. A vast network of bike

participants. A relevant organization estimates the number of

paths has been established across the country, and many people

people engaging in jogging, running, and marathon events at

now enjoy cycling along the countrys major rivers on weekends.

somewhere between 800,000 and 4 million.

Jincheon Training Center

The training center
has a facility that can
accommodate 350
athletes in twelve sports
(i.e. athletics, shooting,
swimming, tennis,
soft tennis, volleyball,
basketball, baseball,
softball, rowing, canoeing,
and rugby), ancillary
facilities designed to
help athletes adjust their
physical condition, and
convenience facilities.

A large number of people are attracted to professional baseball,

More than 20,000 people, professionals and amateurs, took

part in a marathon event held recently.

soccer, and volleyball games. Rooting for ones favorite team is a

fun pastime. Professional baseball and soccer games are attended

As a mountainous country, South Korea has an ideal

by 8 million and 3 million people, respectively, each year.

environment for mountain climbers and hikers. There are many

mountains near large cities, enabling city dwellers to enjoy

Collaboration of Sports and Science

mountain climbing and hiking conveniently. The country also has

At the 2012 London Summer Olympics, a South Korean won the

gold medal in the vault final. This achievement was the result
of collaboration between science and sports. Sports scientists

Average number of spectators attending

each game of major professional sports

10,983
KISS
The Korea Institute of
Sport Science in Nowongu, Seoul engages in
the development and
distribution of physical
exercise methods,
research aimed at helping
athletes enhance their
skills, the training of
future sports leaders, and
comprehensive research
on sports science.

172

11,374
10,709
7,157

5,358

1,471

4,575

Volleyball

5,400

2011
Soccer

Baseball

1,525
2012

time span for an athlete to touch the vaulting horse was 0.15
seconds and that the optimal angle between arm and body was
22 degrees in order to stay in the air longer and make more rapid
turns. The South Korean athlete was able to win the gold medal

4,092

2010
Basketball

7,656

5,687

1,744

1,744

1,472
2009

the hardest skills. They reached the conclusion that the optimal

13,747

13,055

12,873
11,402

11,562

studied what the optimal conditions should be to pull through

as a result of training based on optimal conditions suited to his

body structure.

2013
(Source:MCST)

The Korea Institute of Sport Science (KISS) employs experts

in sports dynamics, psychology, physiology, and so on. These
specialists help athletes to achieve the best possible results in
173

competitions. Five experts accompanied the national team during

silver medals, and 11 bronze medals

the 2012 London Summer Olympics. There are sixteen sports-

The 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics were significant in that

related societies in the country in total, all of which exchange

they were focused on reconciliation between the Western and

information through an integrated computer system.

Eastern Blocs, after the Western Blocs boycotting of the 1980

Korea has many practice and training facilities, including

Moscow Olympics and the Eastern Blocs retaliatory boycotting

the Taereung Training Center in Seoul. The center in Taereung

of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. The event in Seoul transcended

is equipped with training facilities, running tracks, indoor and

ideological conflict and racial discrimination pursuant to the

outdoor courts, an indoor swimming pool that meet international

Olympic Charter, and served as an occasion for publicizing the

standards, and a dormitory for 300 athletes.

status of the countrys economic development and traditional

In 2011, the country built a new training facility in Jincheon,

Red Devils take to the

Streets
After their enthusiastic
support for their national
team in red T shirts during
the 2002 FIFA World Cup
Korea/Japan, South Korean
sports fans acquired the
nickname Red Devils. It
is said that about half of
all South Koreans took
part in the supporting
events during the 2002
tournament.

culture, and the potential of Koreans worldwide.

Chungcheongbuk-do for athletes selected for international events.

Among those who practiced here were the winners of gold and

2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan

silver medals in track and field, swimming, and rifle shooting at the

Held for 31 days (May 31 to June 30), the 2002 FIFA World Cup

2012 London Summer Olympics. The facility in Jincheon will be

Korea/Japan was the first World Cup to be jointly hosted by

expanded to accommodate up to 800 athletes in 25 sports. Another

two countries. It was also the first World Cup Tournament to

South Koreans supporting

the national team in front
of Seoul City Hall during
the 2002 FIFA World
Cup Korea/Japan. Many
foreigners said that they
were deeply impressed by
the fans enthusiasm and
unity.

facility specializing in the enhancement of athletes cardiopulmonary

functions is in Hambaeksan Mountain near Taebaek.

1988 Seoul Summer Olympics

The 24th Summer Olympic Games were held in Seoul in 1988,
with a record number of athletes (8,391 from 159 countries)
Emblem of the 1988
Olympics
The emblem was designed
based on the triple
Taegeuk, a traditional
pattern handed down
among Koreans for many
generations. The pattern
has been widely used
in entrances to private
houses and handicrafts.
It was used to symbolize
wishes for the promotion
of peace through the
Olympics.

174

attending the event. The Games adopted reconciliation and

progress as the basic spirit. The organizing committee set
the following objectives: participation of the largest number
of athletes, worldwide harmony, best results, safety, and cost
saving. South Korea became the 16th country (and only the 2nd
in Asia) to host the Summer Olympic Games. The competitions
were held in 23 formal disciplines and 2 demonstration sports.
South Korea ranked 4th overall, winning 12 gold medals, 10
175

be held outside Europe and the Americas. The event produced

a series of unexpected results, of which the most unexpected
was probably South Koreas remarkable success in reaching
the semi-finals. The event also served as an occasion to reveal
another aspect of South Koreans to people all over the world:
soccer fans in red T shirts enthusiastically supporting their
national team. Tens of thousands of fans fervently cheering on
their team in the dead of night created quite a sight. During the
South Korean teams match against Germany for 4th place, a
total of 6.5 million people filled the streets nationwide to cheer
on their national team.

2011 World Athletics Championships

The event was held in Daegu, the countrys third largest city, from
August 27 to September 4, 2011, with more than 100 million
spectators over the world. Daegu Stadium is also the venue where
many other international sports competitions, including the 2002
FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan and the 2003 Summer Universiade,
were held. During the 2011 IAAF World Championships in Daegu,
the stadiums high-definition electric signboard displayed minute
differences of hundredths of a second in the athletes times,
presenting vivid scenes of an athletics competition to spectators
1

all over the world.

1. Competitors in the
steeplechase at the 2011
IAAF World Athletics
Championships in Daegu.
2. The South Korean
national team enters the
stadium for the Opening
Ceremony of the 2012
London Summer Olympics.

176

2012 London Summer Olympics

At the 2012 London Summer Olympics, South Korea took 5th
place in terms of the number of gold, silver, and bronze medals
it won. Among Asian countries, Korea ranked 2nd only after
China. South Korean athletes won 13 gold, 8 silver and 7 bronze
177

South Korean Medalists

in the 2012 London Summer Olympics
Ki Bo-bae

Choi In-jeong

(Archery)

(Fencing)

Ki Bo-bae won two

gold medals in the
womens individual
and team archery
events.

Park Tae-hwan

Kim Jae-bum

(Swimming)

(Judo)

Park Tae-hwan won

two silver medals
in the mens 200m
freestyle and 400m
freestyle.

Kim Jae-bum won

a gold medal in
the mens 73-81kg
category at the
World Championship
and the 2012 London
Summer Olympics.

Kim Jang-mi

Yang Hak-seon

(Shooting)

(Gymnastics)

Kim Jang-mi won the

gold medal in the
womens 25m pistol
event.

178

The countrys fencing

team achieved
notable results at
the 2012 London
Summer Olympics.
Choi In-jeong won
a silver medal in the
womens epee team
event.

Yang Hak-seon
presented the
country with a
gold medal in
gymnastics. He
ranked the highest
score of 7.4 with his
1,080-degree, triple
vault twist.

179

medals in archery, rifle shooting, fencing, gymnastics, judo, and

2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics

swimming. It is noteworthy that the country won gold medals

The 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics will be held

in various mens individual, womens individual, and womens

between 9th and 25th February 2018. Pyeongchangs

team events, and won the bronze medal in a mens team event.

bids to host the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics

In rifle shooting, the country won 3 gold medals and 2 silver

failed, but the city finally made it at the third attempt

medals, letting the world know that it is a powerhouse in rifle

for 2018. Thus, South Korea became the host of the

shooting. One archer and one rifle shooter won two gold medals

Olympic Games once again after the 1988 Seoul

each. The country also won 2 gold medals in judo and a gold

Summer Olympics. The 2018 Pyeongchang Winter

medal in wrestling.

Olympics will be the second winter Olympics held in

More than any other country, the South Korean team

Asia after the Games held in Nagano, Japan in 1998.

surprised the world in the London Olympics, with only the

The Summer and Winter Olympic Games, the FIFA World Cup,

three sporting superpowers and the host nation exceeding the

and the IAAF World Championships in Athletics are said to be the

South Korean performance. To win six medals in fencing, once

four most important international sporting events. South Korea

regarded as a sport for Western aristocrats, is quite remarkable,

will be the sixth country to have hosted all of them by 2018 -

but perhaps the most notable achievement of South Koreas

after France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Russia.

2018 Pyeongchang
Winter Olympics
IOC President Jacques
Rogge announces
Pyeongchang as the Host
City for the 2018 Olympic
Winter Games.

national team was the gold medal won in artistic gymnastics on

the pommel horse. Yang Hak-seon presented the country with

Taekwondo

its first gold medal in the Olympic history of pommel horse,

Originated in Korea, Taekwondo is a martial art of self-defence

displaying great skill. In Taekwondo, in which the country used

in which the competitors use both their hands and feet. In

to win many gold meals, the team won only one gold medal,

ancient times, Koreans practiced Taekwondo as a mandatory

apparently as a result of the sports adoption by many other

preparation for war.

countries.
For its participation in the 2012 London Summer Olympics

folk sport. In 1971, it was designated as Koreas national sport.

the motto of the South Korean national team was From London

In 1973, the 1st World Taekwondo Championship were held in

to London, referring to the teams return to London after the

Seoul and in 1980, the IOC adopted it as an official event of the

1948 London Olympic Games. It also refers to the shift in the

Olympic Games. It has grown into an international sport with

countrys status from a foreign aid recipient to an aid donor in

around 100 million participants globally.

just 64 years and its wish to share the wealth and experience
accumulated by it with other countries.
180

With the passage of time, Taekwondo gradually became a

Taekwondo stresses the importance of spiritual discipline and

for this reason it enjoys popularity among both men and women.
181

A Taekwondo
demonstration in Times
Square, New York

182

The South Korean government assists with the dispatching of

viewed as a symbol of South Korea. As for its educational effects

Taekwondo masters worldwide. Active UN Peacekeeping Forces

associated with spiritual discipline and tenacity, Taekwondo

teach Taekwondo to local residents in disputed territories, where

is emerging as an option for the treatment of young people

they are stationed. In many parts of the world, Taekwondo is

suffering from addictions.

183

History

The Beginnings of the Countrys History

(Prehistoric Times - Gojoseon)
Three Kingdoms and Other States
Unified Silla and Balhae
Goryeo
Joseon
The Fall of Joseon: Imperial Japans Annexation of Korea
Independence Movement
Transition to a Democracy and Transformation
into an Economic Powerhouse

6
History

The Beginnings of the Countrys History

(Prehistoric Times - Gojoseon)
The history of the Korean nation began in Manchuria and the
Korean Peninsula when people started settling there 700,000
years ago. Representative historic sites associated with the people
of the Paleolithic Age, who used tools made of animal horns and
chipped stone tools, include Geomeunmoru Cave in Sangwon,
Pyeongannam-do; Jeongok-ri in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi-do;
Seokjang-ri in Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do; and Durubong Cave
in Cheongwon, Chungcheongbuk-do. The early inhabitants of the
peninsula survived by hunting for animals and collecting edible
plants in groups.

Comb-pattern Pottery
This object with a pointy
bottom was discovered
in Amsa-dong, Seoul, a
representative historic site
of the Neolithic Age.
(Source: National Museum of
Korea)

In Korea, the Neolithic Age began around B.C.8,000. People

started farming, cultivating cereals such as millet, and used polished
stone tools. They started settling down permanently in places and
formed clan societies. One of the most representative features of
the Neolithic Age is comb-patterned pottery, examples of which
Hand Axe
This multifunctional tool dates back to the Paleolithic period, it was discovered in
Jeongok-ri, Yeoncheon-gun, Gyeonggi-do.

have been found all across the Korean Peninsula, including Amsadong, Seoul; Namgyeong, Pyeongyang; and Suga-ri, Gimhae.
The Bronze Age started around the 10th century BC on the
Korean Peninsula and the 15th century BC in Manchuria. Historic
sites associated with the Bronze Age are found in Liaoning and

186

187

Jilin Provinces, China and across the Korean Peninsula. With the

Gojoseon expanded its territory under his rule. By this time,

development of the Bronze culture, a society emerged in which

Gojoseon had adopted iron culture, developed agriculture and

the head of a clan exercised great influence. The strongest clan

various handicrafts, and increased its military strength. It tried to

leaders started merging many clans into one, and these groups

monopolize profit, while serving as an intermediate in the trade

very gradually developed into early states.

between the Korean Peninsula and China, taking advantage of

The tribes that played a central role in the establishment of

its geographical proximity to China. This led to confrontation

Gojoseon, which emerged as the first recognizable state of the

between Gojoseon and Han China. Han attacked Gojoseon with

Korean people, believed in the King of Heaven and worshipped

a large number of ground and naval forces. Gojoseon defiantly

bears. The two factions jointly upheld Dangun Wanggeom as their

resisted the attack and won a great victory in the early stage of

chief priest and political leader. Gojoseon fostered an independent

the war, but its capital at Wanggeomseong Fortress fell after a

culture in Liaoning, China and along the Daedonggang River.

year of war, and Gojoseon collapsed in B.C.108.

By the 3rd century BC, kings such as King Bu and King Jun had
become powerful and bequeathed the throne to their sons.

Dolmen

They established a solid system of rule, backed by high-ranking

The Seven Wonders of the World include sites such as the Great

retainers and military officers.

Pyramid of Giza, the Great Wall of China, and Stonehenge in

Towards the end of the 3rd century, the Qin Dynasty was

England among others. The many dolmens scattered around the

replaced by the Han Dynasty in China, creating a period of

Korean Peninsula compare favorably with them for the following

social upheaval. Many people moved southward to Gojoseon.

reasons:

Their leader, Wiman, acceded to the throne in B.C.194 and

188

First, the Korea Peninsula has over 36,000 dolmens, or about

Dolmen Park in Suncheon,

Jeollanam-do

189

half of all the dolmens in the world.

Table-type Dolmens in
Bugeun-ri, Ganghwa

that they were put there for sacrificial rituals offered to the gods

Second, diverse artifacts, including

of the earth. A Korean folklorist named Son Jin-tae pointed to

human bones, stone objects, jade and

a folktale in which dolmens were believed to be the houses of

bronze artifacts, have been unearthed

witches (Mago halmeoni in local legends).

from the dolmens, although many of

Dolmens are rarely found in China, except for Manchuria,

them were also found to contain no

or Japan, yet many thousands of them can be seen across the

objects. Such discoveries raised many

Korean Peninsula. They were erected over many thousands of

pertinent questions such as who

years, but this process stopped sometime before Christ. There

made the dolmens, when, and why? What kind of life did their

are many unsolved mysteries surrounding the dolmens, such as

builders lead?

the reason for their concentration in such great numbers on the

Third, one can only wonder about how such large stones were

Korean Peninsula in Northeast Asia and their connectivity with

transported and from where, and what kind of skills were used to

those found in Europe or India. UNESCOs acceptance of the

build the dolmens.

South Korean governments application for registration of the

In the past, the dolmens in Korea used to be classified into

dolmens in Ganghwa, Hwasun, and Gochang in 2000 as a world

two categories: the northern type (table type), which includes the

cultural heritage attests to the worlds growing interest in their

dolmens located north of the Hangang River, and the southern

importance in the field of cultural anthropology.

type (go-table type). However, after go-table dolmens were found

Mandolin-shaped
Bronze Dagger and
Slender Bronze Dagger
(Gojoseon)
These two artifacts
represent the Bronze Age.
They are thought to be
either weapons or ritual
objects. The one on the
left looks similar to a bipa
(Korean mandolin), while
the one on the right is
more slender and displays
a straight line.
(Source: National Museum of
Korea)

190

north of the Hangang River, and table-type dolmens were found

Three Kingdoms and Other States

south of the river, the northern/southern-type appellations were

Towards the end of the Gojoseon Period, tribal states came

dropped. Meanwhile, other scholars have added new types to this

into being one after another in Manchuria and on the Korean

system of classification.

Peninsula. Buyeo was established in the plains along the

Dolmens are often referred to as tombs, but it is difficult to

Songhuajiang River in Manchuria and Jilin. The people of Buyeo

make this claim with any certainty. Yi Gyu-bo, a great scholar

grew crops and raised livestock, including horses. They also made

of Goryeo in the 12th century, left the following remarks about

furs. By the early 1st century AD, they started calling their main

dolmens: People say that the saints put the dolmens there in the

leader the King and actively engaged with other countries, even

olden days. It is indeed a wonderful technique (that enabled men

entering into diplomatic relations with China. By the end of

to position such huge rocks in that way).

the 3rd century, Buyeo had been incorporated into Goguryeo.

In the early 20th century, American missionary Horace Grant

The people of Buyeo held an annual festival called Yeonggo in

Underwood claimed that dolmens were not tombs but rather

December. During the festival, they held a sacrificial rite for

Stele for Great King

Gwanggaeto (Goguryeo;
5th Century)
King Gwanggaeto the
Great, the 19th king of
Goguryeo, expanded the
territory of his Kingdom
into Manchuria and the
Maritime Provinces of
Siberia. In 414, his son
King Jangsu set up a
stele (6.39m high, 37
tons) in present-day Jian,
Jilin Province, China to
commemorate his fathers
great achievements. The
inscription, comprising
1,775 characters, explains
how Goguryeo was
founded and how it
expanded its territory.

191

heaven, sang and danced together, and released prisoners.

The Three Kingdoms and Gaya (5th Century AD)

The Kingdom fell apart during the establishment of the

regional confederation, but the factions that founded Goguryeo
and Baekje took pride in their status as the inheritors of Buyeo.
Samguk sagi (History of the Three Kingdoms) states that
Goguryeo

Gojumong, who founded Goguryeo in B.C.37, was originally from

Buyeo. Goguryeo prospered greatly in areas close to Baekdusan
Mountain and along the Amnokgang (Yalu) River. Right after its
foundation, the Kingdom conquered a number of small states in
the area and moved its capital to Gungnaeseong (Tonggu) near

East Sea

Pyeongyang

the Amnok. Through many wars, it drove away the factions loyal
to Han Dynasty and expanded its territory as far as Liaodong in

Usanguk

the west and to the north of the Korean Peninsula in the east. It
became a powerful state, exerting control over Manchuria and the
northern part of the Korean Peninsula.
There were also a number of small states, such as Okjeo

Dokdo

West Sea
Ungjin (Gongju)
Sabi (Buyeo)
Baekje

Silla
Gaya

Geumseong
(Gyeongju)

and Dongye, in present-day Hamgyeong-do and the north of

Gangwon-do along the East Coast of the Korean Peninsula.

Tamna

Located in outlying areas, they did not develop very rapidly. Okjeo
offered tributes, such as salt and fish, to Goguryeo. The people

192

of Dongye held a sacrificial rite for heaven called Mucheon in

100,000 households in total) located in present-day Gyeonggi-

October, building a spirit of collaboration by singing and dancing

do, Chungcheong-do, and Jeolla-do Provinces. Byeonhan was

together. Their specialty products included an archery bow,

located in an area that included present-day Gimhae and Masan.

known as a dangung, and the gwahama (a horse small enough to

Jinhan was located in an area that included present-day Daegu

pass unhindered beneath fruit trees). These two states were also

and Gyeongju. Each of the latter two was composed of 40,000

incorporated into Goguryeo.

50,000 households. The three mini-states were collectively known

The area to the south of Gojoseon was occupied by a large

as Samhan (Three Han States). The people of Samhan held rites of

group of small states including Mahan, Jinhan, and Byeonhan.

sacrifice for heaven in May and October. On such occasions, they

Mahan was a confederacy of fifty-four small states (composed of

gathered together to enjoy liquor, food, singing and dancing.

193

A Painting of Hunting
Scenes in the Tomb of
the Dancers (Goguryeo;
5th Century)
Dynamic hunting activities
of the people of Goguryeo
(37 BCE-668 CE)

Jar with Clay Figurines

(Silla; 5th Century)
In ancient times, people
made animal-shaped clay
figurines for use as toys
or burial accessories. This
jar indicates the religious
belief of the people of
Silla. It is an important
material for scholars and
enthusiasts of history
and art.
(Source: National Museum of
Korea)

194

Gold Crown of Gaya

This crown was unearthed in
Goryeong, Gyeongsangbukdo. It features upright
decorations and curved jade
pendants.

Along with the spread of iron culture and the development

Great, a son of King Sosurim, drove away the Khitan, Sushen,

of farming skills, powerful states such as Goguryeo, Baekje and

Dongbuyeo and expanded his territory into Manchuria. He also

Silla gradually became established in Manchuria and the Korean

captured many of Baekjes fortresses in the south and helped Silla

Peninsula.

overcome a crisis by driving away Wako invaders.

Goguryeo

Baekje

Goguryeo was the first of the three Kingdoms to firmly establish

Baekje was established in B.C.18 jointly by the people who lived

itself as a sovereign country. It started expanding its territory in

along the Hangang River, people originating from Buyeo and

the late 1st century and adopted a system centered on the King

Goguryeo, and migrants from elsewhere. By the mid-3rd century,

by the late 2nd century. By the early 4th century, King Micheon

during the reign of King Goi, the Kingdom had seized complete

of Goguryeo had driven away factions loyal to Han Dynasty from

control over the areas along the Hangang River and established

the Korean Peninsula.

a solid system of political governance by accommodating

In 372 (the 2nd year of King Sosurims reign), Goguryeo

the advanced culture of China. By the mid-4th century, King

adopted Buddhism and announced a code of laws in an effort

Geunchogo occupied Mahan and expanded the territory as far as

to establish a proper ruling system. It also established the

the south coast of present-day Jeollanam-do. Along the northern

Taehak, a Confucian educational institute. King Gwanggaeto the

border, Baekje confronted Goguryeo in a bid to take control of

195

present-day Hwanghae-do. It also exerted control over Gaya in

of King Gwanggaeto, moved the capital to Pyeongyang in 427.

the south. At that time, Baekjes territory included present-day

He occupied Hanseong (present-day Seoul), the capital of Baekje,

Gyeonggi-do, Chungcheong-do, Jeolla-do, the middle reaches of

and areas along the Hangang River, expanding his territory

the Nakdonggang River, Gangwon-do, and Hwanghae-do.

down to present-day Jungnyeong Pass (Danyang and Yeongju)

and Namyang-myeon, Gyeonggi-do. Thanks to this territorial

Silla

expansion, Goguryeo emerged as a power to be reckoned with in

Silla originated in Saroguk, one of the mini states of Jinhan. It was

Northeast Asia

established as a Kingdom in B.C.57 by the natives of present-day

Looking at Baekje, the Kingdom moved its capital to Ungjin

Gyeongju and people from other regions. Those with the family

(present-day Gongju) in 475, after yielding the areas along the

names Park, Seok, and Kim acceded to the throne in turn. By

Hangang River to Goguryeo. It strived to rebuild its strength to

around the 4th century, the Kingdom occupied most of the areas

regain the lost territory. King Dongseong confronted Goguryeo

east of the Nakdonggang River. During the reign of King Naemul,

by reinforcing the alliance with Silla. King Muryeong reinforced

Silla allowed Goguryeo troops to remain within the Kingdom to

local control in an effort to lay the foundation for prosperity.

help drive away Wako invaders. It also adopted Chinese culture

King Seong, a son of King Muryeong, relocated the Baekje

and civilization through Goguryeo.

capital to Sabi (present-day Buyeo), strove to reform

In Byeonhan, located along the lower reaches of the

Nakdonggang River, the Gaya Confederation emerged, with

Great Gilt-bronze Incense

Burner of Baekje (6th
Century)
This precious object has
helped researchers broaden
their understanding of
the production skills,
handicrafts, artistic culture,
religion, and ideas of
Baekje.
(Source: National Museum of
Korea)

the ruling system, and regained control over areas along

the Hangang River in an alliance with Silla.

Geumgwan Gaya playing a leading role. The confederation

As for Silla, Saroguk changed its name to Silla

developed an iron culture and exerted considerable influence on

in the early 6th century, reformed its political

areas along the Nakdonggang River. Mini states of Gaya started

system, and reorganized its administrative zones,

rice farming early on and traded actively with Wa (Japan) and

including the capital, during the reign of King Jijeung. King

Lelang, taking advantage of locally produced iron and convenient

Jijeung incorporated Usanguk (composed of present-day

sea routes.

Ulleungdo and Dokdo) into the territory of Silla in

512. King Beopheung stabilized the ruling system by

196

Unification of the Three Kingdoms under Silla

proclaiming laws, setting rules about official robes,

By the 5th century, each of the three Kingdoms (Goguryeo,

and adopting Buddhism as the official state religion.

Baekje, and Silla) on the Korean Peninsula was committed to a

He also incorporated Geumgwan Gaya in a drive to

policy of territorial expansion under a firmly established ruling

expand the territory. King Jinheung reorganized

apparatus centered on the King. In Goguryeo, King Jangsu, a son

Hwarangdo into a national organization and

197

Sacred Bell of Great King

Seongdeok
(Unified Silla; 8th Century)
Weighing 18.9 tons, this
is the largest bell in the
country. It is also called
the Emille Bell. The Flying
Apsaras in the picture
on the right displays the
exquisite decorative skills
of Silla.

Tang forces in 660.

The Silla-Tang forces then attacked Goguryeo, once the most
powerful Kingdom in Northeast Asia. However, Goguryeo had
depleted its resources in two large-scale wars against the two
dynasties of China, and fell in 668.
Upon conquering Baekje and Goguryeo in alliance with Silla,
Tang China attempted to exert control over the entire Korean
Peninsula, including Silla. Silla waged a war against Tang, defeated
its navy in Gibeolpo near the estuary of the Geumgang River, and
drove all of Tangs forces out of the peninsula, thus accomplishing
the important feat of unifying the Korean Peninsula in 676.
expanded the territory considerably. He seized lands along the
Hangang River from Baekje, conquered Dae Gaya in Goryeong,

North and South States Period:

wrested areas along the Nakdonggang River, and expanded the

Unified Silla and Balhae

territory as far as Hamheung along the East Coast.

With the unification of the three Kingdoms on the Korean

In 612, Sui China, which unified all of mainland China into one

Peninsula in 668, Silla enjoyed a marked expansion of both its

state, attacked Goguryeo, mobilizing more than a million troops.

territory and population. Unified Silla entered a period of dazzling

General Eulji Mundeok of Goguryeo drowned most of the Chinese

economic development. It mended fences with Tang China. The

invaders in the Salsu (present-day Cheongcheongang River). The

two countries saw vigorous exchanges between traders, monks,

Sui Dynasty sustained enormous damage due to the failure of

and Confucian scholars. Silla exported gold/silver handiworks and

the campaign and fell to the Tang Dynasty in 618. Tang China also

ginseng to Tang and imported books, chinaware, satin silk fabric,

attacked Goguryeo several times, but failed at each attempt.

clothes, and craftwork products. Goods from Central Asia were

In the meantime, Baekje frequently attacked Silla. Silla

unsuccessfully sought the assistance of Goguryeo, and then

198

introduced to Silla, and traders from that region paid visits to Silla
via the Silk Road and sea routes.

invaded in an alliance with Tang China. Silla troops led by Kim

The major ports of Silla included Ulsan and Danghangseong

Yu-sin defeated an elite force of Baekje troops commanded by

(present-day Hwaseong, Gyeonggi-do), through which numerous

Gyebaek in Hwangsanbeol and marched to Sabi, the capital of

goods from Central and Southern Asia were imported. In the early

Baekje. Troops of Tang China invaded Baekje through the estuary

9th century, General Jang Bo-go of Silla established a forward

of the Geumgang River. Finally, Baekje surrendered to the Silla-

base in Cheonghaejin (present-day Wando, Jeollanam-do) to

199

deal with the pirate menace and encourage trade with nearby
countries including China and Japan.

Balhae started expanding its territory and regained control

over most of the former territory of Goguryeo. During the reign

In the meantime, the survivors of the fallen Kingdom of

of King Mu, Balhae controlled northern Manchuria. King Mun

Goguryeo resisted Tang Chinas rule. In 698, a group of them led

reformed the system of governance and moved the capital to

by Dae Jo-yeong, jointly with the Mohe, founded Balhae near

Sanggyeong (present-day Ningan-xian, Heilongjiang Province)

present-day Dongmiaoshan in Jilin Province, China. The new

in about 755. The people of Balhae took pride in their Goguryeo

Kingdom would eventually confront Silla in the south.

inheritance. Letters held in Japan show that the kings of Balhae

referred to themselves as the Kings of Goguryeo. Balhae
eventually grew so large and strong that the people of Tang China

Unified Silla and Balhae (8th Century)

called it Haedong seongguk (prosperous country in the east),

but it fell in 926 as a result of the devastation caused by an
eruption of Baekdusan Mountain and an invasion of the Khitan.

Celadon Prunus Vase

with Inlaid Cloud and
Crane Design (Goryeo;
12th Century)
The jade green celadon
ware represents the
ceramics of the Goryeo
period. The exquisite
patterns on these objects
were created by inlaying
white and black clay into
grooves etched on their
surface. Inlaid designs such
as this are recognized as a
unique skill.

Goryeo
By the late 8th century, Silla had been weakened by
an internal struggle for power among the nobility;

Balhae

and, by the 10th century, leaders of powerful local

factions, such as Gyeon Hwon and Gungye, had

Sanggyeong

established their own regimes. In 892, Gyeon Hwon

established a Kingdom named Later Baekje, with
Wansanju as its capital, and gained control of presentEast Sea
Pyeongyang

day Jeolla-do and Chungcheong-do.

In 901, Gungye, a member of the Silla royal family,

Usanguk

West Sea

Silla
Geumseong
(Gyeongju)

Tamna

Dokdo

founded Later Goguryeo, exerting control over present-day

Gangwon-do and Gyeonggi-do. He expanded the territory,
reformed the ruling system, and relocated the capital to
Cheorwon. He also changed the name of the country to
Taebong.
Gungye lost popularity among his people while exerting

200

201

control over local leaders and strengthening his claim to the

The Goryeo Kingdom gave birth to a splendid culture. The

throne. In 918, he was driven away by Wang Geon, a local leader

inlaid designs found on Goryeo jade-green porcelain attest to a

from Songak. Wang Geon changed the name of the country to

unique artistry unparalleled elsewhere in the world at that time.

Goryeo, announced that the country would inherit Goguryeo, and

The Tripitaka Koreana (a Korean collection of the Tripitaka, or

moved the capital to Songak. Goryeo remained hostile to Later

Buddhist scriptures, carved onto 81,258 wooden printing blocks),

Baekje and adopted a policy of positive engagement with Silla.

which was made during the Goryeo Period, is the essence of

In 935, Unified Silla was peacefully incorporated into Goryeo.

Buddhist culture and the pinnacle of achievement of wooden

Following a power struggle among leaders in Later Baekje, Gyeon

printing block technology. The worlds first metal printing types

Hwon surrendered to Wang Geon. In 936, Later Baekje fell to

were also invented during the Goryeo Period. According to the

Goryeo. Thus, Wang Geon unified the Later Three Kingdoms on

pertinent records, the people of Goryeo invented metal printing

the Korean Peninsula.

Goryeo adopted Confucianism as its political ideology and
established an effective education system by founding the

Goryeo (11th Century)

Gukjagam (a national higher education institution) and numerous

hyanggyo (local private schools). Buddhism also exerted a
considerable influence on Goryeo society in general. The Kingdom
adopted a more tolerant approach towards the acceptance of
other religions, as indicated by the Yeondeunghoe (Lotus Lantern
Festival) and Palgwanhoe (Festival of the Eight Vows), rites in
which prayers were offered for blessing, based on a syncretic mix

Seogyeong
(Pyeongyang)

of folk religions and Buddhism.

Goryeo engaged in brisk trade with many countries, including
Song China. Many traders from Song China, Central Asia, Arabia,
Southeast Asia and Japan travelled to Byeongnando, the gateway

East Sea

Gaegyeong (Gaeseong) Usanguk

Namgyeong (Seoul)
Dokdo

West Sea
Donggyeong
(Gyeongju)

to the capital, Gaeseong. Traders from Song China sold satin, silk
and medicinal herbs, while traders from Goryeo sold hemp cloth
and ginseng. Gems such as ivory, crystal, amber were imported
from Arabia. And, finally, the name Korea originated from Goryeo

Tamna

during this period.

202

203

t y p e s m o re t h a n 2 0 0 ye a rs b e fo re

and peoples lives were destroyed due to the long years of war. The

Johannes Gutenburg in Europe. A book

Mongols destroyed many precious cultural heritages, including the

entitled Jikji (Anthology of Great Buddhist

nine-tier pagoda at Hwangnyongsa Temple.

Priests' Zen Teachings) was printed in 1377

Jikji (1377), the oldest

extant text printed with
movable metal type

with metal printing types, 78 years ahead

Joseon

of its European homologue printed in 1455.

Towards the end of the 13th century, Goryeo found itself in a

Jikji is kept at the National Library of France

difficult situation due to internal and external problems, including

and was registered as a Memory of the World in 2001.

a struggle for power among the nobility and incursions by red-

War with the Mongols

In the early 13th century, the situation in China changed

Joseon (15th Century)

abruptly. The Mongols conquered the Jin Dynasty of China and

expanded their influence into the Korean Peninsula. They invaded
Goryeo seven times between 1231 and 1259. In an effort to
resist these attacks, Goryeo moved its capital to Ganghwa. Even
ordinary people and slaves fought the invaders. In 1259, a peace

Hamgil-do (Hamgyeong-do)

agreement was signed between the two countries. The Yuan

Pyeongan-do

Dynasty of China established by the Mongols accepted Goryeos

Pyeongyang

six conditions for peace, including a guarantee of the continued

East Sea

existence of the Goryeo Dynasty and Mongol troops immediate

Hwanghae-do
Haeju
Gyeonggi-do Gangwon-do
Ulleungdo
Hanseong(Seoul)
Wonju

withdrawal from the Korean Peninsula. The agreement was a

result of Goryeos persistent resistance to the Mongols plan to
bring Goryeo under its direct control.
Despite the agreement with the Mongols, a group of Goryeo

West Sea
Chungcheong-do

Gongju
Jeonju

troops continued to fight them, moving their base of operations to

Jindo and then to Jejudo. They continued to fight until 1273. Their

Hamheung

Dokdo

Gyeongsang-do
Daegu

Jeolla-do

forty-two-year campaign of resistance against the Mongols, the

worlds strongest power at that time, attests to their perseverance

Jejudo

and indomitable spirit. However, the national land was devastated

204

205

and founded a new dynasty, Joseon. As the first King Taejo of

Cheonsang Yeolcha
Bunya Jido (Joseon; 17th
Century)
This (on the left)
astronomical chart
from Joseon shows the
constellations.

Joseon, he chose Hanyang (present-day Seoul) judged to be a

(Source: National Palace

Museum of Korea)

turbaned bandits and Wako pirates. At that time, General Yi

Seong-gye had become popular among the people for his role in
driving away foreign invaders. He overthrew the Goryeo Dynasty

propitious spot according to the principles of feng shui as the

capital of the new dynasty. He also ordered the construction of
Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, as well as roads
and markets. The new capital, located in the center of the Korean
Peninsula, was easily accessible via the Hangang River, which
flowed directly through its heart.
King Taejong, the third King and a son of the founder of the
dynasty, made a significant contribution to stabilizing the system
of governance. He adopted a system by which all people were
registered under the Hopae Act, and launched six ministries,
namely, the Ministries of Personnel Administration, Finance,
Protocol, Defense, Justice, and Public Works, to govern the
country. King Sejong, the fourth King and a son of King Taejong,
ushered in an era of great political, social, and cultural prosperity.
Scholars at the Jiphyeonjeon (Hall of Worthies) developed strong
and effective policies. During the reigns of Sejo, Yejong, and
Seongjong, the Gyeongguk daejeon (National Code) was drawn
up with the aim of establishing a long-lasting ruling system.
The Creation of Hangeul
Koreans had used Chinese characters as their alphabet and
writing system for many centuries. Idu and Hyangchal, systems
for writing the spoken word, using Chinese characters, had been
developed, but they left much to be desired. In 1443, King Sejong
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207

supervised the creation of Hangeul (the Korean alphabet) and

on the Shoushili calendar of China and the Islamic calendar of

promulgated it to the people three years later, in 1446. The

Arabia. Noticeable advances were made in the sphere of medical

shapes of the Korean alphabet were based on the shapes made by

science. Hyangyak jipseongbang (Compilation of Native Korea

the human vocal apparatus during pronunciation. Many scholars

Prescriptions) and Uibang yuchi (Classified Collection of Medical

have stated that Hangeul is the most scientific and easy-to-

Prescriptions) were compiled. Metal printing types, such as

learn writing system in the world. It certainly went a long way

Gyemija and Gabinja, were made during the reigns of Taejong and

towards enhancing communication between the people and the

Sejong, making it possible to publish many books.

government, and played a decisive role in laying the foundations

of a culturally advanced country.

Joseons Foreign Relations

Joseon maintained friendly relations with Ming China. The two

Angbuilgu (Joseon;
17th~18th Centuries)
A sundial capable of
marking changes in both
time and season (Left)
(Source: National Palace
Museum of Korea)

Rain Gauge (Joseon;

18th Century)
This rain gauge used
to be installed in
Seonhwadang, Daegu
(Right)

Development of Science and Technology

countries exchanged royal envoys every year and engaged in

During the Joseon period, the countrys science and technology

busy cultural and economic exchanges. Joseon also accepted

developed considerably. The Jagyeongnu (clepsydra), Angbuilgu

Japans request for bilateral trade by opening the ports of Busan,

(sun dial), and Honcheonui (armillary sphere) were all invented

Jinhae, and Ulsan. In 1443, Joseon signed an agreement with the

in the early period of the dynasty. A rain gauge, the first of its

Tsushima Clan Leader of Japan for bilateral trade. Joseon also

White Porcelain Jar with

Plum, Bamboo, Bird
Design (Joseon; 15th
Century)
This vase made in the
early Joseon Period
displays a uniquely
Korean atmosphere in
its refined portrayal of
bamboo, plum, and birds.

particular kind in the world, was used. Devices for land survey and

traded with Asian countries, such as Ryukyu, Siam, and Java.

(Source: National Museum of

Korea)

mapmaking were also made. During the reign of King Taejo, the
Cheonsang yeolcha bunya jido (Celestial Chart) was made based

Development of Handcraft Skills

on a previous version drawn up during the Goguryeo Period.

Chinaware is perhaps the most representative handcraft

During the reign of King Sejong, Chiljeongsan (Calculation of the

of the Joseon Period. Grayish-blue-powdered celadon

Motions of the Seven Celestial Determinants) was made based

or white porcelain was widely used at the Royal

Court or government offices. By about the 16th
century, Joseons chinaware production skills
had reached their zenith. Its white porcelain
typically exhibited clean, plain shapes based on
the tradition established during the Goryeo Period.
They were suited to the aristocratic taste of the
Confucian scholars.

208

209

Imjin Waeran (Japanese Invasion of 1592)

from Joseon. With these spoils of war, the Japanese were able

Throughout the 14th and 15th centuries, Joseon maintained good

to enhance scholarship and the arts in their own country, while

relations with Japan. In the 16th century, however, Japan called

porcelain makers whom the Japanese troops abducted from

for a larger share of the bilateral trade, but Joseon refused to

Joseon helped Japan develop its own china culture.

comply with the request. Japanese threw the country into turmoil
by causing disturbances in 1510 and 1555. In Japan, Toyotomi

Development of Grassroots Culture

Hideyoshi brought the confusion of the 120-year-long Warring

In the late Joseon Period, commerce and industry entered a period

States Period to a conclusion and unified the country. Then, in

of rapid development. Many children could receive education

1592, he invaded Joseon with around 200,000 troops, with the

at private schools in their local neighborhood. With these

aim of dissipating local lords strength and stabilizing his rule in

improvements in the quality of life of the people, they began to

Japan. The war lasted until 1598.

enjoy diverse entertainments. Stories written in easily understood

Feeling threatened by the invading Japanese troops, King

Hangeul, as opposed to literary works published in Chinese,

Seonjo of Joseon fled to Uiju, close to Ming China, and asked the

were widely distributed. Pansori (a genre of musical storytelling)

Ming to come to his aid. The Japanese invaders marched into the

and mask dance developed. In the late 19th century, Sin Jae-

northern provinces of Joseon. Korean militias started fighting

hyo arranged pansori saseol (stories). Five leading pansori songs,

the invaders here and there across the country. It is particularly

namely, Chunhyangga (The Song of Chunhyang), Simcheongga

noteworthy that Korean naval forces led by Admiral Yi Sun-sin

(The Song of Sim Cheong), Heungboga (The Song of Heungbo),

won one victory after another against the invaders and defended
the nations breadbasket in Jeolla-do Province. The Japanese forces
pulled out of Korea, but invaded Joseon again in 1597. Although
Admiral Yi Sun-sin was left with only thirteen warships, he won
a devastating victory against the Japanese fleet of 133 ships. The

Sandaenori
This is a type of
traditional stage play, in
which masked actors and
actresses engage in gags,
dances, songs, etc.

sea battle waged in the Strait of Myeongnyang was one of the

greatest military engagements of all time, and is surely worthy of
inclusion in any record of the world history of naval battles.
Following the death of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Japanese
invaders returned home. During the seven-year war, many cultural
heritages in Joseon, including Bulguksa Temple, were destroyed.
The Japanese took away books, printing types, and works of art
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211

Jeokbyeokga (The Song of Red Cliff), and Sugungga (The Song of

Independence Movement

the Rabbit and the Turtle) have been handed down to the present

During the colonial period (1910-1945), the Japanese pillaged

day. Mask plays such as Tallori and Sandaenori enjoyed great

Joseons resources, banned the use of the Korean language -

popularity among ordinary people.

even going so far in 1939 as to require Koreans to change their

personal names to Japanese style surnames and given names

The Fall of Joseon:

under the Name Order, and conscripted Koreans into their

Imperial Japans Annexation of Korea

work force or as uniformed soldiers in the Pacific War. Koreans

With the onset of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century,

engaged in persistent struggles to regain their independence.

capitalism developed in Europe and large businesses came into

They organized clandestine organizations to fight the Japanese

being. European countries expanded their colonies in Asia and

Africa. By the mid-19th century, the western powers had forced
Qing China and Japan to open their doors and then asked the
same of Joseon, but Joseon duly rejected such requests. Joseon
did not yield to pressure applied in the form of naval attacks in
1866 (by the French) and 1871 (by the Americans).
In the ensuing period, the western powers did not stop
exerting pressure. In 1875, Japan dispatched the battleship Unyo

Leaders of the Provisional

Government
They played a pivotal
role in the independence
movement between
April 1919, when the
Provisional Government
was established in
Shanghai, China, and the
country's liberation in
August 1945.

Maru to attack Ganghwado and Yeongjongdo Islands, demanding

that Joseon open its doors to foreign trade missions. Ultimately,
Joseon was forced to sign the highly unequal, one-sided
Ganghwado Treaty with Japan in 1876 under the threat of force.
Subsequently, imperialist powers, including Japan, vied with each
other to pillage Joseons resources. In 1897, Joseon changed its name
to Imperial Korea and pushed ahead with reforms and the opendoor policy, but it was too late. Japan soon won major victories in
Ganghwado Treaty
The Ganghwado Treaty
was a highly unequal, onesided trade treaty signed
between Joseon and Japan
on February 27, 1876
under threat of force.

212

its wars against Qing China and Russia, emerged as a strong power
in Northeast Asia, and took steps to annex Joseon. Many Korean
patriots, including Ahn Jung-geun, resisted such a plan, but to no
avail. In August 1910, Imperial Korea became a Japanese colony.
213

within the country. They also established forward bases for the

PGK declared war against Japan and dispatched troops to the

independence movement in China, Russia, and the United States.

front lines in India and Myanmar to fight on the side of the Allied

In March 1919, Korean leaders announced the Declaration of

Forces. Some young Koreans received special training from a

Independence. Students and ordinary people joined them by

special military unit of the United States to better equip them

staging street demonstrations across the country. These protests

to attack Japanese forces in Korea. On August 15, 1945, Koreans

continued for 12 months, involving about 2 million people, and

finally received what they had looked forward to for so long: the

were violently suppressed by the Japanese, with many thousands

countrys liberation as a result of Japans surrender in the Pacific

killed and wounded. The movement spread to the Koreans

War. U.S. and Soviet troops were deployed to the south and

resisting in Manchuria, the Maritime Provinces of Siberia, the

north of the 38th parallel, respectively to disarm Japanese troops

United States, Europe, and even to Japan. Following the March

remaining on the Korean Peninsula.

1919 Independence Movement, organizations representing

Koreans were established in Seoul, the Maritime Provinces of

Transition to a Democracy and Transformation

Siberia, and Shanghai. The Provisional Government of Korea

into an Economic Powerhouse

established in Shanghai was the countrys first democratic

In May 1948, the countrys first democratic election was held

republican government; it was equipped with a modern

in South Korea under the UNs supervision to elect the 198

Gyeongbu Expressway
Korea's first national
expressway connecting
Seoul and Busan was
opened in 1970.

Constitution and a political system that separated the three basic

branches (executive, legislative and judicial) of government.
Koreans also carried out armed struggles against the Japanese.
In the 1920s, more than thirty Korean independence army units
engaged in resistance activities in Manchuria and the Maritime
Provinces of Siberia. In June 1920, a Korean independence army
unit led by Hong Beom-do dealt a devastating blow to Japanese
troops in Fengwutung, Jilin Province, China. In October 1920,
Korean volunteers led by Kim Jwa-jin won a great victory against
Japanese troops in Helongxian, Manchuria. This is known as the
Battle of Cheongsalli among Koreans.
In 1940, the Provisional Government of Korea (PGK) organized
the Korean Liberation Army in Chungqing, integrating many
scattered volunteer independence fighters in Manchuria. The
214

215

members of the National Assembly. In July of the same year, the

Constitution was enacted and Rhee Syngman and Yi Si-yeong,
two independence fighters deeply respected by Koreans, were
elected as the countrys first President and Vice President. On
August 15, 1948, the Republic of Korea (ROK) was launched as
a free democracy, inheriting the legitimacy of the PGK. The UN
recognized the government of the ROK as the only legitimate
government on the Korean Peninsula.
However, to the north of the 38th parallel, a general election
under UN supervision could not be carried out due to the Soviet
Unions opposition. On September 9, 1945, the Democratic
Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) was established as a
communist country, and Kim Il-sung, who had served as an officer
of the Soviet Russian Army, was sworn in as the President. Amid
the confrontation between a free democracy in the south and a
communist dictatorship in the north, the ROK government led by
President Rhee Syngman was burdened with many problems, such

armistice agreement. President Rhee Syngman did not sign the

as the establishment of domestic order, the elimination of any

agreement, calling strongly for the prolongation of the war with

remaining traces of the colonial rule, and conflicts between the

the goal of unifying the entire country in the Souths favor.

right and the left among others.

On June 25, 1950, North Korean troops armed with Soviet-

Communists reduced the entire Korean Peninsula to rubble.

made tanks and fighters invaded the South, thus triggering an all-

Millions of troops and civilians were killed. Most of the countrys

out war. The UN Security Council unanimously condemned the

industrial facilities were destroyed. South Korea became the

North Korean invasion and published a resolution recommending

poorest country in the world. However, the war taught South

that its member states provide military assistance to South

Koreans the preciousness of freedom. The experience provided

Korea. When the tide of the war turned against the North with

the foundation that inspired patriotism in the hearts of young

the intervention of the UN Forces, Red Chinese troops intervened

students and uniformed soldiers alike, and became the principal

in the war on the Norths side. The two sides engaged in fierce

engine of the countrys modernization.

battles until, on July 27, 1953, the two sides finally signed the
216

The three-year-long internecine war started by the

The 18th President, Park

Geun-hye
She was inaugurated in
February 2013 as the
countrys first female
President.

President Rhee Syngman strengthened his authoritarian rule.

217

In 1960, the ruling Liberal Party rigged the Presidential election.

October 1972, students and ordinary people engaged in the

Young students took to the streets in protest. The situation

democratization movement. After the assassination of President

deteriorated when many demonstrators were shot down by the

Park in October 1979, a new group of army officers led by General

police. President Rhee Syngman announced his step-down and

Chun Doo-hwan (Singunbu) seized power through a coup dtat.

took refuge in Hawaii. Shortly thereafter, the Constitution was

Singunbu suppressed the voices calling for democratization,

amended, and the Cabinet system and the bicameral National

including the May 18 Democratization Movement, by force.

Assembly were adopted. Under the new constitution, the regime

Chun Doo-hwan was sworn in as the President and ruled with an

led by Prime Minister Jang Myeon was launched, but the political

authoritarian grip. The Chun Doo-hwan government concentrated

situation became extremely fragile amid political struggles and

on economic stabilization, successfully bringing inflated prices

continued street demonstrations by students.

under control. Under his leadership, the country accomplished

In May 1961, a group of young army officers led by General

Park Chung-hee seized power in a coup dtat. In the presidential

In June 1987, Roh Tae-woo, a presidential hopeful of the

election held in October 1963, after two years of military rule,

ruling party, made a special announcement to the effect that

Park Chung-hee, having retired from the military, was elected

he would accept the peoples request for democratization and

as President and inaugurated in December that same year. The

direct election of the President. In December of the same year,

government led by President Park set up a 5-year economic

he was elected to a five-year term as President. He was sworn in

development plan under the slogan of modernization of the

as President in February 1988. The Roh Tae-woo administration

fatherland and achieved rapid economic growth by implementing

established diplomatic relations with Communist countries,

an export-oriented policy.

including the Soviet Union, China, and those in Eastern Europe.

Observers called it the Miracle on the Hangang River.

The country vigorously pushed ahead with the development

218

continued economic growth.

During his term, the two Koreas joined the UN simultaneously, in

September 1991.

of national land, including the construction of the Gyeongbu

The Kim Young-sam government, which was inaugurated

Expressway and subway lines in large cities. The country also

in 1993, strove to eliminate corruption by making it a rule for

carried out the Saemaeul Undong (New Community Movement),

high-ranking public officials to register all their assets and by

turning the impoverished agricultural society into a country

prohibiting the use of false names in all financial transactions. The

focused mainly on manufacturing.

level of transparency in business transactions was considerably

When the government announced the Yusin (Revitalization

enhanced by this measure. The government also implemented

Reform), which were designed to extend the term of the

the local autonomy system in full force. Kim Dae-jung was

incumbent government after eighteen years of dictatorship, in

inaugurated as President in 1998. His government succeeded in

219

overcoming the foreign exchange crisis that had hit the country

the creation of a global Korea under the South-North Economic

one year earlier, and strove to develop both democracy and the

Community.

market economy. In its relations with the North, the government

Ms. Park Geun-hye became the countrys first woman to be

adopted the sunshine policy. In June 2000, the leaders of the

elected President in the election held in December 2012. She was

two Koreas met at a summit held in Pyeongyang, North Korea,

inaugurated in February 2013. Her government presented a new

and made a joint statement. Then, the two Koreas established

vision: Nations Development and Peoples Happiness. Over the

a system of reconciliation and cooperation, and agreed on

past sixty-five years (1948-2013), the country has transformed

the reunion of dispersed family members, reconnection of

itself from one of the most impoverished countries in the world

the Gyeongui and Donghae railroad lines, revitalization of the

to an economic powerhouse and an exemplar of free democracy.

unification movement led by the private sector, and the expansion

This process may be viewed as a unique example in world history.

of economic cooperation, including sightseeing in Geumgangsan

Mountain.
The Roh Moo-hyun government, which was inaugurated in 2003,
concentrated on three leading objectives, namely, the realization
of democracy with the participation of the people, balanced social
development, and the construction of Northeast Asia with the focus
on peace and prosperity. The government also held the second
summit between the leaders of the two Koreas in Pyeongyang in
October 2007 and signed an FTA with the United States.
The Lee Myung-bak administration, which was inaugurated
in February 2008, announced five leading indicators in a bid
for the establishment of a new development system with the
focus on changes and practicality. The government stressed that
it would be a government that would serve the people. It also
made efforts to reduce the government organization, privatize
public corporations (in addition to making them operate more
efficiently), and reform administrative regulations. Other policies
adopted by the government included the forging of a creative
alliance with the United States as befits the 21st century, and
220

221

History at a Glance
Samguk sagi (History of the Three Kingdoms) and Samguk yusa (Memorabilia of the

The classification of periods based on ruling dynasties was the generally accepted

Three Kingdoms) divide the history of the Silla Dynasty into three periods: early, mid,

practice from the early 20th century. However, various new systems entered

and late Silla Dynasty.

widespread usage with the adoption of western methods of research on early

modern history.

The Three Kingdoms Period

Silla (B.C.57 ~ A.D.935)
Baekje (B.C.18 ~ A.D.660)
Goguryeo (B.C.37 ~ A.D.668 )

Joseon (1392-1910)
Unified Silla (676~935)
Buddha at Seokguram
Grotto
This work represents the
esthetic beauty of Unified
Silla. It displays the statue
of Shakyamuni who reached
the stage of enlightenment.

Comb-patterned
pottery
They are
earthenware
representing the
Neolithic Age that
contain geometric
patterns, such as
dots, lines, circles
on the surface

Gold crown (Silla; the 6th Century)

It features three twig-shaped upstanding
decorations, two deer horn-shaped
decorations, and decorations composed of
round gold plates and comma-shaped jade.
It also has two tree leaf-shaped hanging
accessories.

The Bronze Age

Gojoseon
The Samhan Period

Liaoning-style bronze dagger and

Slender bronze dagger
They are bronze daggers
representing the Bronze Age
through the early Iron Age.

Hunminjeongeum
This book explains the
principles on which
Hangeul is based. Hangeul
is the countrys writing
system which was
created by King Sejong (r.
1418~1450).

Goryeo (918~1392)

Janggyeongpanjeon Depositories of Haeinsa

Temple
Tripitaka Koreana [a Korean collection of the
Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures) carved onto
roughly 81,258 wooden printing blocks)] is the
oldest extant collection of Buddhist scriptures
with the most comprehensive contents.

Gaya (42~562)
Armor and helmet
It was made during the Gaya Period (5th
Century). The steel plates were curved to
meet the contours of the human body and
attached to each other with nails.

The Iron Age

Buyeo

The Paleolithic Age

The Neolithic Age

The 2002 FIFA World Cup

Korea/Japan

The 24th Seoul Summer

Olympics (1988)

The Korean War (1950~1953)

Establishment of the government of the
Republic of Korea (1948)
Imperial Korea (1897-1910)

Balhae (698~926)

Korea
B.C.

5000

2000

1000

500

200

100

A.D.

200

300

400

500

600

700

900

1000

1100

1200

1300

1400

1500

1800

1900

2000

China
Sui (581~618)

The Bronze Age

Shang (1600~1046)

The Warring States Period (475~221)

Qin (221~206)
Former Han (B.C. 206~A.D. 25 )

South and North

Dynasties (420~589)

Zhou (1046~256)

Tang (618~907)

Song (960~1279)

The Period of Five

Dynasties and Ten
Kingdoms (907~960)

Ming
(1368~1644)

Qing
(1616~1911)

Establishment of the
Peoples Republic of
China (1949)

Yuan (1271~1368)

The Chun Qiu Period (770~476)

Later Han (25~220)

Establishment of the
Republic of China (1912)

The Three Kingdoms Period (220~280)

Chin (265~420)

Western
Mesopotamian civilization
Dynasty of a Unified Egypt

Birth of Jesus Christ

The Roman Empire declared Christianity
the state religion (392)
East-west division of the Rome Empire(395)

Greek civilization
Establishment of the Roman Empire (735)
Socrates (470~399)
Alexander the Great (356~323)

222

Julius Caesar (101~44)

The 1st Punic War (264~241)
The 2nd Punic War (219~201)
The 3rd Punic War (149~146)

Anglo Saxons
built a kingdom
in England (449)
Mahomet
(570~632)

First Crusade
(1096~1099)

WW I
(1914~1918)
WW II
(1939~1945)

Marco Polo (1254~1324)

Magna Carta (1215)
The Hundred Years War
Charles the Great
(1344~1434)
became the Western Roman emperor
Gutenberg's printing technology (1455)
(800)
Columbuss discovery of America (1492)
Hijra (622), the first year of the Islamic calendar

Luthers religious revolution (1517)

The American Civil War (1861~1865)

The United States Declaration of Independence (1776)
The French Revolution (1789~1793)
The Thirty Years War (1618~1648)

223

Constitution and
Government

Constitution
Executive, Legislative, and the Judiciary
Independent Organizations
Local Government
International Relations

equal opportunities in all sectors, including politics, economy,

Government

welfare state. The Constitution also stipulates that all people have

the obligation to pay taxes, engage in national defense, educate

society and culture, and recognizes the necessity of establishing a

their children, and work.

The Constitution states that the country should endeavor
to maintain international peace. It stipulates that international
The government of the Republic of Korea was launched on August

treaties signed by the country and generally accepted

15, 1948. Three months earlier, the first members (198) of the

international laws have the same effects as domestic laws. Under

National Assembly had been elected in the countrys first general

the Constitution, the status of aliens is guaranteed in accordance

election held under UN supervision. On July 17 of the same year,

with international laws and treaties.

the first National Assembly promulgated the Constitution. Its

members elected Rhee Syngman as the first President on July 20.

Executive, Legislative, and the Judiciary

Rhee Syngman was widely known both in and out of the country

The National Assembly is an institution that represents the

as a leader of the countrys independence movement. The 3rd UN

peoples opinions. All the laws of the country are made by the

General Assembly held in Paris in December of that year passed

National Assembly. At present, the National Assembly has 300

a resolution that the government established in the south of the

38th parallel was the only legitimate government on the Korean
Peninsula.
Seats of the 19th National Assembly Occupied by Political Parties

Constitution
The countrys Constitution was promulgated on July 17, 1948
after a month and half of work for its enactment. The government

Independent (2)
Justice
Party (5)

Saenuri Party (158)

observes it as a national holiday. The first amendment to the

Constitution was made in July 1952, while the 9th and last
amendment was passed by referendum on October 27, 1987.
The countrys Constitution adopts liberal democracy as the
basic principle of governance. The Constitution guarantees the

Unified
Progressive
Party (5)

The 19th
National
Assembly

New Politics
Alliance for
Democracy (130)

peoples freedom and rights under various laws. It also guarantees

226

227

members, each of whom is elected for a term of four years. The

National Assembly. The leading opposition party is the New

National Assembly is composed of 246 members elected in

Politics Alliance for Democracy. The first National Assembly was

local constituencies and 54 members elected by political parties

launched in May 1948. The members of the current 19th National

for the purpose of proportional representation. The latter are

Assembly (May 2012 May 2016) were elected in the election

meant for vocational representation. At present, the ruling party

held in April 2012. The National Assembly building is located in

is the Saenuri Party, as it has the largest number of seats at the

Yeouido near the Hangang River that flows through Seoul.

The executive right of the government is exercised by the
Executive Branch headed by the President. At present, the

Government Organization Chart

President is elected through a direct election for a term of five

years. Under the Constitution, the President cannot be reelected

President

for a second term. The current President Park Geun-hye was

The Board of Audit and Inspection of Korea

Korea Communications Commission

National Intelligence Service

elected as the countrys first female president in December 2012

and was inaugurated in February 2013.

Prime Minister

The Cabinet Meeting, in which the President and the Prime

Minister serve as the Chair and the Vice Chair, respectively,

Ministry of Public Safety and Security

Korea Fair Trade Commission

Ministry of Personnel Management

Financial Services Commission

deliberates on important policies under the rights accorded

Ministry of Government Legislation

Anti-corruption and Civil Rights

Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs

Commission of Korea

to the Executive Branch of the government. In the absence of

Ministry of Food and Drug Safety

Nuclear Safety and Security Commission

the President, the Prime Minister controls the ministries of the

government on his/her behalf. At present, the Executive Branch

Ministry of
Strategy and
Finance

Ministry of
Education

Ministry of Science,
ICT and Future
Planning

Ministry of
Foreign Affairs

Ministry of
Unification

Ministry of
Justice

Ministry of
National Defense

Ministry of Government Administration

and Home Affairs

Ministry of
Culture, Sports
and Tourism

Ministry of
Agriculture, Food
and Rural Affairs

Ministry of
Trade, Industry
and Energy

Ministry of
Health
and Welfare

Ministry of
Environment

Ministry of
Employment
and Labor

Ministry of
Gender Equality
and Family

Ministry of
Land, Infrastructure
and Transport

Ministry of
Oceans
and Fisheries

of the government operates two boards, five offices, twenty two

ministries, sixteen administrations, and six committees.
The Judiciary Branch of the government is composed of
the Supreme Court, appellate courts, district courts, family
courts, administrative courts, and the patent court among
others. The Supreme Court Chief Justice is appointed by the
President with the consent of the National Assembly, and other
Supreme Court justices are appointed by the President upon the
recommendation of the Chief Justice. The term for the Chief
Justice and justices is six years.

228

229

Independent Organizations
Presidents

Besides the Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary Branches of the

government, a number of other agencies carry out their respective
independent functions.
The Constitutional Court has the right to review whether
a specific law is unconstitutional, to judge an appeal for the
impeachment of a high-ranking official, and decide on the
disbandment of a political party under the Constitution. The
Constitutional Court is composed of three judges appointed by
the President, three judges appointed by the National Assembly,

Park Geun-hye

Lee Myung-bak

Roh Moo-hyun

18th President
(2013 - )

17th President
(2008-2013)

16th President
(2003-2008)

and three judges appointed by the Supreme Court Chief Justice.

The President of the Constitutional Court is appointed by the
President with the consent of the National Assembly.
The National Election Commission handles matters
associated with elections, fair management of referendums,
political parties, and political funds. A member of the
commission is not allowed to join a specific political party
or engage in political activities. Their term is six years. The

Kim Dae-jung

Kim Young-sam

Roh Tae-woo

Chun Doo-hwan

15th President
(1998-2003)

14th President
(1993-1998)

13th President
(1988-1993)

11th and 12th President

(1980-1988)

chairman is elected from among the members.

The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK)
performs the role of respecting and realizing the dignity and
values of human beings as sovereign individuals by protecting
and promoting their basic rights. The commission was launched
in November 2001 in light of the peoples earnest desire
for improvement of the countrys human rights conditions
expressed during the democratization process. The commission

230

Choi Kyu-hah

Park Chung-hee

Yun Bo-seon

Rhee Syngman

10th President
(1979-1980)

5th, 6th, 7th, 8th,

and 9th President
(1963-1979)

4th President
(1960-1962)

1st, 2nd
and 3rd President
(1948-1960)

also handles cases concerning human rights infringement or

discrimination involving a foreigner residing or working in the
country.
231

Sejong Special SelfGoverning City

This is the countrys
17th high-level local
government. It was
launched in July 2012
with a view to solving the
problem of overpopulation
in the Greater Seoul
area by distributing the
functions nationwide as
well as to promoting the
balanced development
of national land and
decentralization. The
central governments 17
ministries will move from
Seoul to the said city by
the end of 2014.

Local Government

Local Governments

Provincial Governments
9

The country adopted the local autonomous system in June 1995.

The Local Autonomy Act was enacted in 1949, but local autonomy
was not implemented during the period of political upheaval,
10

including the Korean War, the April 1960 Student Revolution, the

10

May 1961 Coup dtat.

12
11

level local governments. With the inclusion of Sejong Special

11

15
3

Autonomous City in July 2012, the number of high-level local

5

governments was increased to seventeen (i.e. Seoul Special City,

13
6
16

six metropolises, eight provinces, and Jeju Special Self-Governing

4
14

Province). The number of low-level local governments stands at

227 (i.e. si/gun/gu).

17

The heads of local governments and councilors are elected

The local autonomous system is very significant as a means of

realizing the goal of grassroots democracy through local residents
participation.

International Relations
South Korea strives to promote friendly and cooperative
relations with other countries. By July 2012, the country had
established diplomatic relations with 189 countries, operating
permanent embassies in 112 countries, in addition to 42
consular offices and 4 representative offices. In the past, the
countrys diplomacy focused on western countries, including
the United States, but it has pushed ahead with diversified
232

12

Seoul

Incheon

Office Location: Jeonggak-ro,

Namdong-gu
Population: 2.88 million
Land area: 1,041km2
www.incheon.go.kr
3

Daejeon

Office Location: Dunsan-ro, Seo-gu

Population: 1.53 million
Land area: 540km2
www.daejeon.go.kr
4

Gwangju

Office Location: Naebang-ro, Seo-gu

Population: 1.47 million
Land area: 501km2
www.gwangju.go.kr

Chungcheongbuk-do

Office Location: Cheongju

Population: 1.57 million
Land area: 7,406km2
www.cb21.net

Jeollabuk-do

Office Location: Jeonju

Population: 1.87 million
Land area: 8,067km2
www.jeonbuk.go.kr

Metropolitan Governments
Office Location: Sejong-daero, Jung-gu
Population: 10.14 million
Land area: 650km2
www.seoul.go.kr

Chungcheongnam-do

Office Location: Hongseong

Population: 2.05 million
Land area: 8,204km2
www.chungnam.net

13

through direct election. The term for local government heads

There is no limit on how many terms a local councilor may serve.

Gangwon-do

Office Location: Chuncheon

Population: 1.54 million
Land area: 16,874km2
www.provin.gangwon.kr

Local governments are divided into high-level and low-

is four years, and they can be reelected for up to three terms.

Gyeonggi-do

Office Location: Suwon

Population: 1.22 million
Land area: 10,171km2
www.gg.go.kr

5 Daegu
Office Location: Gongpyeong-ro, Jung-gu
Population: 2.50 million
Land area: 884km2
www.daegu.go.kr
6

Ulsan

Office Location: Jungang-ro, Nam-gu

Population: 1.16 million
Land area: 1,060km2
www.ulsan.go.kr
7

Busan

Office Location: Jungang-daero, Yeonje-gu

Population: 3.53 million
Land area: 770km2
www.busan.go.kr
8

Sejong

Office Location: Guncheong-ro,

Jochiwon-eup
Population: 120,000
Land area: 465km2
www.sejong.go.kr

14

Jeollanam-do

Office Location: Muan

Population: 1.91 million
Land area: 12,267km2
www.jeonnam.go.kr
15

Gyeongsangbuk-do

Office Location: Daegu

Population: 2.7 million
Land area: 19,029km2
www.gyeongbuk.go.kr
16

Gyeongsangnam-do

Office Location: Changwon

Population: 3.33 million
Land area: 10,535km2
www.gsnd.net
17

Jeju Special SelfGoverning Province

Office Location: Jeju

Population: 590,000
Land size: 1,849km2
www. jeju.go.kr

233

for peacekeeping, global economic stabilization, environmental

conservation, etc.
South Korea chaired the G20 Summit held in Seoul in
November 2010, confirming its status as a leading country, under
the slogan Shared Growth Beyond Crisis. Observers said that
the country dealt with the foreign exchange issue, which was a
core agenda concerning the then current global economic crisis,
very efficiently. The Seoul event was the fifth G20 Summit and
the first one held in Asia.
The Nuclear Security Summit Seoul 2012 was another event
that showed the status of South Korea as a central country in
the struggle for world peace. The Seoul event was held to discuss
how to protect countries nuclear facilities, including power
plants, and how to organize international cooperation to block
nuclear terror attempts. It was the second nuclear securitySouth Koreans serve the
world as members of the
international community
through international
cooperation carried out
at the government level
and through private
organizations voluntary
activities.

diplomacy through brisk exchanges even with socialist countries,

related summit after the one held in Washington DC in April

since the end of the 1980s.

2010. At the Seoul event, the participating countries adopted

IMF, APEC, IAEA, ILO, WHO. South Korea became a member of

South Korea is enhancing its status in the international

(Photo: South Korean COPION

volunteers with locals in
Kathmandu, Nepal)

the UN in 1991, and joined the OECD in 1996. The country has

community by achieving noticeable results in the Green Growth

also carried out activities as a member of the IOC since 1947.

sector. Leading examples of such initiatives include the opening of

The country is committed to carrying out positive activities as

a member of diverse international organizations such as UNESCO,

the 11-item Seoul Communique about concrete methods of

implementing nuclear security.

the headquarters of the UN Green Climate Fund (GCF) in Seoul

234

International Cooperation

and the transformation of the Global Green Growth Institute

South Korea does its best in the sector of international

(GGGI) into an international body. The GGGI, which was launched

cooperation in keeping with its enhanced economic strength. The

in June 2010 with the South Korean government playing a

country takes part in programs designed to provide support for

central role, had its status upgraded as an international body

impoverished countries through the World Bank, the IMF, and the

based in Seoul at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable

OECD. Recently, the country has also joined worldwide efforts

Development (Rio+20) held in June 2012 in Rio de Janeiro,

235

Brazil. It is expected that the GGGI will be able to contribute

established in 1991, and organizes programs designed to provide

greatly to the development of the international community as an

support for developing countries and to share South Koreas

international corporation.

own development experience. KOICA provides ODA (Official

Development Assistance) of US$400-500 million annually to

The GCF is called the

World Bank of the
Environmental Sector. It
is the first international
financial institution that
South Korea succeeded
in attracting to Songdo,
Incheon (in October 2012).
At the 16th session of the
conference of the parties
to the UNFCCC held in
Cancun, Mexico in 2010,
the participants agreed to
the establishment of the
said fund.
(Photo: Central Park in Songdo
International City, Incheon)

Provision of Support for Developing Countries

developing countries in Asia and Africa; these funds contribute

In only half a century, South Korea transformed itself from one

to numerous areas, including education, health, agriculture/

of the most impoverished countries in the world into a developed

forestry/fisheries, public administration, and industrial energy,

country capable of providing aid to others. Given this phenomenal

among others.

success story, South Korea was a fitting host for the High Level

South Korea is also actively trying to improve governance

Forum on Aid Effectiveness, the largest-scale international

in developing countries by training public officials. The Central

meeting in the development and cooperation sector, which was

Officials Training Institute provides education in many disciplines,

held in Busan in November 2011.

including leadership, personnel management, economic and

South Koreas foreign aid programs are coordinated by the

industrial planning, and rural development (modeled on South

Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). This body was

Koreas New Community Movement of the 1970s). A total of

1,500 foreign officials have attended these courses since 1984.
South Korea is also pleased to be making a contribution
to world peace and security through taking part in a wide
variety of UN peacekeeping operations and by supporting the
UN peacekeeping budget. Currently, South Korean troops are
stationed in eight countries including Lebanon, South Sudan,
India, Pakistan, and West Sahara, where they are tasked with
the maintenance of order, rehabilitation, medical services, and
other activities

236

237

Economy

The Korean Economy the Miracle on the Hangang River

Koreas Open Market Capitalist Economy
Industrial Brand Leaders and Korean Industrial Standards
Efforts to Grow as a Global Power

South Koreas five leading export items and export amounts

Economy

Liquid crystal devices 28,160

Liquid crystal devices 25,971

Petroleum
products

Petroleum
products
56,098

Ships

52,787

Ships

37,168

2012

2013

39,753

The Korean Economy the Miracle on the Hangang River

property shall be guaranteed for every citizen. In short, the
country has adopted the market economy system, respects

Semiconductors

Semiconductors

The Constitution of South Korea stipulates that the right of

57,143

50,430
Cars 47,201

Cars 48,635

[Unit: Millions of dollars /Source: Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy]

individuals and businesses right to conduct free economic

Cars Exported from
Hyundai Motors Ulsan
Factory
Cars are one of the
countrys major export
items.

activities, and guarantees the profits and properties made and

accumulated by them.
However, the Constitution does not guarantee the limitless,

stipulates that an unjust situation should be rectified if the abuse

unfettered pursuit of capitalistic free economy. The Constitution

of capital is found to cause damage to people as an apparatus set

to improve things relating to the free market economy.
South Korea has achieved economic growth at an unprecedented
speed. Observers called what the country has accomplished the
Miracle of the Hangang River, as most of the countrys industrial
facilities were destroyed during the three-year-long Korean War,
and the country was devoid of capital and natural resources.
In the early 1960s, the country pushed ahead with exportoriented economic development plans. At first, the countrys
major export items were mainly light industrial products
manufactured in small factories, or raw materials. In the 1970s,
the country invested in heavy chemical facilities and laid the
basis for the export of heavy industrial products. At present, the
country has a number of industries that boast solid international

240

241

competitiveness, such as the shipbuilding, iron/steel, and chemical

economic structure centered on large businesses in the process

industries. The foundation of such strong competitiveness was

of pursuing growth as a country with insufficient capital and

built around that time.

resources. Conglomerates came to dominate industry, while the

The country hosted the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, which

provided the country with the momentum to join the ranks of

In November 1997, a foreign exchange crisis hit the country,

the country one of the four Asian tigers, along with Taiwan,

forcing it to turn to the IMF for a bailout. It was the first ordeal

Singapore, and Hong Kong. In December 1996, the country

the country had had to face after years of rapid economic growth.

became the 29th country to join the OECD, which is largely

The country took the drastic step of driving poorly performing

composed of advanced countries.

businesses out of the market and then pushed ahead with

In 1960, South Koreas exports amounted to US$ 32.8 million;

industrial restructuring. In only two years, the country regained its

but by 2013 they reached US$ 559.6 billion. In 1948 GDP per-

previous growth rate and price levels as well as a current account

capita was a paltry US$ 60; whereas in 2013 it was US$ 26,205.

balance surplus. In the process, some 3.5 million people joined in

GDP
2013

13,043

2013

26,205

2012

22,489

2011

11,164

2011

22,489

2010

10,147
8,344

2008

10,493
5,335

1990

1970

2010

2,703
643
81

(Unit: Hundreds of millions dollars / Source: Bank of Korea)

2008

2,541

19,296

1,547

21,695

2000

1,246

1,233

1,118

11,292

1990

1970

3,848

17,193

2007

1980

4,157

20,759

2009

9,309

2007

242

South Koreas Foreign Trade Volume (2013)

11,292

2009

the campaign to collect gold to help the government repay the

Per-capita GNI

2012

1980

and imports, leaving it susceptible to external conditions.

semi-advanced countries. The international mass media called

South Korea gradually established an export-oriented

2000

countrys economic structure became heavily reliant on exports

1,075

983

966

6,303
1,660
225

(Unit: Dollar / Source: Bank of Korea)

China

U.S.A.

Germany

Japan

Netherlands France

U.K.

South Korea Hong Kong Canada

(Unit: Billions of dollars / Source: IMF)

243

The Signing of the

Korea-US FTA
Mr. Kim Hyun-jong, the
representative of South
Korea, and Deputy USTR
Karan K. Bhatia, shake
hands upon completing
the bilateral FTA
negotiations.

Foreign Currency Reserves

2013

346.5

2012

327.0

2011

306.4

2010

291.6

2009

270.0

2008

201.2

2007
2000

262.2
96.2

(Unit: Billions of dollars / Source: Bank of Korea)

fund borrowed from the IMF. A total of 227 tons of gold were
collected. The world marveled at the Koran peoples voluntary
participation in the determined effort to repay its national debts.

countrys accomplishment as a textbook recovery.

By 2010, South Korea had emerged as the worlds 7th largest
exporting country. From 2011 to 2013, the total volume of

While making concerted efforts to extricate itself from the

the countrys exports and imports stood at US$1 trillion. Thus,

foreign exchange crisis, the country benefitted from certain

the country became the worlds 9th country to attain the

ancillary effects, such as the adoption of the globalized economic

target of US$1 trillion in annual foreign trade. The countrys

and financial system. However, the restructuring process also had

foreign currency reserves stood at US$346.5 billion as of the

its dark sides. The governments fiscal expenditure increased and

end of December 2013, and the country is in a sufficiently

the income imbalance deepened.

stable position to cope with a foreign exchange crisis, with the

After overcoming the economic crisis, the South Korean

economy continued to record solid growth. Nominal GDP
doubled from US$504.6 billion in 2001 to US$1,049.3 billion by

percentage of its short-term foreign debts being 27.7% in 2013

The countrys sovereign credit rating has risen in recognition
of the dazzling economic results recorded by the country.

2007, recording a high growth rate of 4~5% a year, except during

244

the period of global economic crisis. In fact, during the period

Koreas Open Market Capitalist Economy

2008-10, when most of the world was experiencing a devastating

South Korea has adopted the open market economy, and is

financial crisis, the country recorded an amazing 6.3% economic

thus negotiating with other countries to sign more FTAs, as

growth rate. The worlds major mass media organs referred to the

well as allowing foreigners to invest in the country freely while

245

encouraging domestic businesses to invest in foreign countries

equally freely. The country offers advantages to foreign investors
under the long-term objective of establishing itself as a major
financial hub and logistics base of Northeast Asia.
Market Opening and FTAs
The country has opened its market in most sectors, including
agriculture. Koreans have traditionally attached great importance
to agriculture, viewing it as the basis of the universe. Nonetheless,
the country plans to open its rice market, which will be the last
item to be opened in the agricultural sector, completely by 2015.
The country is pushing ahead with the complete opening of
the market through FTAs. The country plans to sign FTAs with
numerous countries with the aim of expanding its economic
territory worldwide.

guarantees the profits earned by foreign investors and offers them

As of May 2013, South Korea has signed FTAs with 46

a variety of benefits, such as tax incentives, cash support, and

countries, including Chile, Singapore, EFTA, ASEAN, India, the EU,

mitigation of land-related regulations. The country also protects

Peru, the United States, and Turkey. The FTA signed with Columbia

foreigners intellectual property rights and foreign exchange

is awaiting effectuation. The country is currently engaged in FTA-

transactions. Foreign investors are allowed to take the profits they

related negotiations with RCEP, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

earn in South Korea out of the country, on the basis of creative

A view of Busan Harbour,

the largest port in South
Korea

and efficient operation.

Support for FDI (Foreign Direct Investment)
South Korea encourages FDI under the Foreign Investment

Korean government concerning the land required for the

Promotion Act. In South Korea, FDI refers to a foreigners

establishment of a factory or research facilities, the purchase or

acquisition of 10% or more of the equity share of a domestic

lease or construction of a building, or the installation of electric

business through an investment of not less than 100 million won,

or communication facilities. They may ask for partial payment of

or a foreign-based businesss borrowing of a long-term (5 years or

the amount for up to 20 years in cases involving the purchase of

longer) loan from its parent business in a foreign country and the like.

land owned by either the central or a local government.

Under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act, the government

246

Foreign investors are eligible for support from the South

The government also provides cash support in consideration

247

of the FDI amount and the number of locals to be employed. The

Investment to Become a Regional Logistics Hub

government is ready and willing to provide land and capital if

South Korea is making preparations for a period when its

a foreign business displays excellent technological prowess and

combined export/import volume is expected to reach US$2

maintains the employment of a given number of locals.

trillion. The country is also striving to become a major logistics

FDIs in the country surged right after the foreign exchange

hub of Northeast Asia.

crisis in 1998, with the increasing trend continuing. The

The country is investing heavily in automation and the

accumulated reported amount of FDI as of 3Q of 2014 stood

sophistication of export/import cargo stevedoring facilities, with

at $14.82 billion, the highest among the past 3Q accumulated

the aim of greatly enhancing its logistics competitiveness.

figures. The FDI amount suggests balanced growth trend in

terms of business types, regions, and investment types.

The country is striving to invigorate its air cargo network

and expand industrial complexes situated close to airports. The

The government continues to improve the system for the

country ranks third in the world in terms of ICAO-subscribed

provision of support to foreign investors. In October 2010, the

heavy cargo transportation, while Incheon International Airport

government mitigated the criteria for cash support for foreign

ranks second in the world in terms of its international cargo

investors and expanded the scope of state/municipality-owned

handling capacity.

land eligible for private contracts in a bid to mitigate the FDI

Air cargo has high added value. It accounts for about one

conditions. Korea improved the conditions for FDI. In 2014, the

Enforcement Decree and the Enforcement Rules of the Foreign
Investment Promotion Act were amended to provide the basis
Foreign Direct Investment

for the recognition of headquarters and R&D facilities of global

business. The country also plans to attract FDIs by providing cash

16,286

15,454

support for such headquarters and R&D facilities and incentives

14,548

13,673

such as tax reduction/exemption, including holding IR sessions, etc.

11,563

11,712

2005

2008

9,093

The country also invites newly emerging countries with surplus

funds, including China and the Middle Eastern countries, to invest
in the service sector of the country with high added value. To that

3,204

end, the China Desk was launched in May 2010, and a red carpet
service is also provided to foreign investors. The country also
designates locals in the Unites States, the United Kingdom, China,

1996

1999

2002

2011

2012

2013

(Unit: Millions of dollars / Source: Ministry of Trade, Industry & Energy)

and Japan as PR ambassadors for FDI in the country.

248

249

Incheon Airport as a Hub

Airport
One important prerequisite
for a regional hub airport
i s a l l - we a t h e r ro u n d the-clock operation. In
Northeast Asia, the main
re gi o n a l hu b a i rp o r t s
include Kansai Airport
in Osaka, Chek Lap Kok
Airport in Hong Kong ,
Pudong Airport in Shanghai,
and Incheon Airport in
South Korea.
(Photo: A view of Incheon
International Airport)

tracking. It is expected that the volume of international cargo

handled at Incheon International Airport will increase dramatically
from 2.72 million tons in 2010 to 3.5 million tons by 2015.
It is noteworthy that Incheon International Airport has
ranked first in the world for nine consecutive years in the annual
evaluation of airport services conducted by the ACI (Aviation
Consultants, Inc), a consultative council for more than 1,700
airports around the world. This testifies to the sheer quality of
operation of Incheon International Airport. Furthermore, the
airport became the first airport in the world to be registered with
the Airports Council International Hall of Fame.
Located on the peninsula, South Korea has many international
trade ports including Busan, Incheon, Pyeongtaek, Gwangyang,

Trends in air Cargo through put and transshipment volume at Incheon International Airport
50.1

quarter of the total transportation charge, although it accounts

for only 0.2~0.3% of all forms of transportation cargoes in terms

46.7

46.2

46.4

48.1

46.2

49.2
47.8

44.2

43.8

of weight. The South Korean government has expanded the cargo

terminal of Incheon Airport and trains talented young people
to take charge of airfreight logistics at the relevant educational
institutions.

1.70

1.84

2002

2003

2.13

2.15

2004

2005

2.34

2.56

2.42

2.31

2008

2009

45.6

44.6

42.9

2.68

2.54

2.46

2.46

2010

2011

2012

2013

1.18

In addition, the country is committed to improving the

airfreight logistics system to a great extent, using high-end
information technology. Incheon International Airport operates a
sophisticated system for information-based operation of airfreight

2001

2006

Cargo throughput (in metric tons)

2007

(Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport)

Transshipment volume (% of cargo throughput)

logistics, which handles such matters as airfreight booking and

250

251

Cargo Volume (including transshipment) handled at ports in South Korea

39.7
37.7

36.4
35.4

34.9

35.5

35.5

35.1

35

34.5

35.7
34.3
21.61

31.1

9.99

2001

11.89

2002

13.19

2003

14.52

15.22

15.97

2004

2005

2006

17.54

17.93

2007

2008

22.55

23.47

2012

2013

19.37
16.34

2009

Container throughput (in millions of TEU)

2010

2011

(Source: Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries)

Transshipment volume (% of container throughput)

Ulsan, Pohang, and Donghae. In 2013, the volume of cargo

in 2012, the number of those enjoying the highest world market

handled at the countrys ports stood at 1,358.96 million tons,

share stood at 143 items, including memory semiconductors,

showing an overall increase of 1.5% year-on-year. Of this,

TFT-LCDs, seawater desalination facilities, LNG carriers, and flash

container throughput amounted to 23.47 million TEU and trans-

memory. Their number has increased year on year.

shipment volume amounted to 9.32 million TEU, a 4.1% increase

Information technology is the strongest element of the

and 9.7% increase, respectively, from the previous year. Such

countrys economy, a sector that encompasses all the skills

growth served to cement the nations role as a major logistics

required for management innovation and administrative reform

base in Northeast Asia.

as well as skills relating to computer software, the Internet,

Competitiveness in
shipbuilding
South Korea's shipbuilding
industry boasts a
competitive edge in
ships with high added
value associated with
resource development and
transportation.

multimedia, and communication devices.

Industrial Brand Leaders and

252

South Korea is the worlds leading force in mobile communications

Korean Industrial Standards

technology, with a formidable communications infrastructure:

The government is committed to diversifying export items and

there are currently two nationwide 4G networks, using WiBro

enhancing their quality through the annual selection of first-

and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technologies. On the back of this

rate quality goods. Among the first-rate quality goods selected

infrastructure, the countrys IT-related foreign trade recorded a

253

Hanbit Nuclear Power

Plant
South Korea has made
continuous investments in
nuclear power generation.
Nuclear power occupies
an important position
in the countrys power
generation. The country
displayed its technological
prowess worldwide with
the export of a Koreantype nuclear power plant
to the UAE in 2011.

surplus of more than US$70billion in both 2011 and 2012. The

number of cars produced (4.56 million), apparently as a result

country displays solid international competitiveness in cellphones,

of efforts to improve quality and the signing of FTAs with other

semiconductors, computers, and peripheral devices, and continues

countries. It is noteworthy that the number of cars produced in

striving to maintain its leading position in these sectors amid the

2012 was a record figure achieved amid a worldwide economic

rapidly changing information technology environment.

recession and high international oil prices.

Shipbuilding is another South Korean success story, and

Many countries use nuclear power, but most of these rely

in 2011, the country won orders worth 13.55 million CGT,

upon a handful of countries to design and build their nuclear

accounting for 48.2% of global shipbuilding orders. The country

power plants for them. Currently only five countries: the US,

boasts strong competitiveness- particularly in the building of

Japan, Russia, France, and now South Korea are equipped with

ships and structures with high added value, such as offshore

nuclear power plant technology. The country became the

plants, large-sized container ships, and LNG ships.

worlds 6th nuclear power plant exporting country by supplying

In 2012, the country ranked 5th in the world in terms of the

254

Video Games, Leading

Cultural Contents
South Korea has emerged
as a leading exporter of
cultural contents, such
as K-Pop, broadcast
programs, and video
games, as well as cars and
electronic goods.
(Photo: young people playing
video games at the G-Star
2013 event held in Busan.)

a Korean-developed plant to the UAE. The country also boasts

255

people spend their time playing video games in them.

In 2012, the countrys video game industry generated 10
trillion won in domestic sales and exported goods worth a
combined total of 2.853 billion won. The cultural contents
industry is important for its significant contribution to the
economy in terms of exports and job creation, and has great
growth potential as a promising sector of the future.
South Korea is doing its utmost to enhance its international
competitiveness in the information technology sector. The
country is pushing ahead with the work of integrating information
technology with other technologies under the blueprint Vision
2020 - A Country with IT-related Creative Ideas. Such ideas include
the convergence of communications technology with the carmanufacturing industry or the enhancement of safety by fusion
information technology with the shipbuilding industry. It is
expected that such efforts will go a long way towards improving
quality and promoting the development of sectors with high
The G20 Seoul Summit
2010.

solid international competitiveness in the iron/steel and

added value.

chemistry sectors.
A relatively new export sector for South Korea, and one which

256

Efforts to Grow as a Global Power

is growing strongly, is cultural products, including publishing,

At present, South Korea is striving to transform itself into a global

music, video games, and TV and film production. In 2008-12 the

economic system. Although the country accomplished rapid

value of this sector grew from US$ 23.38 to 46.12 billion, partly

growth within a short period of time, this led to the problem of

on the back of Hallyu (the current vogue for South Korean pop

an imbalance in the development of large businesses and SMEs

culture). The country is pouring considerable efforts into video

due to the implementation of an economic policy that was

game contents, which are viewed as a promising sector that

heavily dependent on the export of large enterprises. As such, the

combines film and computer technology with creative ideas.

need for shared growth was singled out as a potential solution to

South Korea is perhaps the only country in the world with so

the problem. The issue emerged as a problem that would have to

many PC cafes across the country and where so many young

be resolved at the international level amid the global economic

257

crisis in 2008.

the foreign exchange war between major countries and to reform

In 2010, the Presidential Commission for Shared Growth

the IMF, which used to be centered on industrialized countries.

for Large and Small Companies was launched with a view to

Its contents were focused on the pressing need to stabilize global

settling conflicts between large-sized businesses and SMEs.

financial markets and provide support for impoverished countries

The commission is assigned with the duties of fostering an

striving for economic development. The declaration went a long

atmosphere conducive to shared growth in industries, monitoring

way towards enhancing the status of South Korea in global

and announcing large businesses shared growth indices,

economic and financial markets.

designating sectors and items suitable for SMEs, and settling

conflicts between large businesses and SMEs based on a social
consensus.
The G20 Summit in Seoul in 2010 was held under a similar
theme. The G20 Summit came into being following the global
economic crisis in 2008, based on the view that it was necessary
to have major emerging countries take part in international
economic discussions, as the G7 Summit inevitably had
certain limitations in this respect. It was pointed out that the
international financial system had failed to reflect the fact that
the share and role of emerging countries had expanded to a
considerable extent over the previous three decades.
At the G20 Summit held in Seoul in 2010, South Korea
assumed the position of the Chair, indicating that the country
had assumed a positive role in the international economic order.
The G20 Summit Seoul adopted the 20-item Seoul Summit
Leaders Declaration and came up with an agreement containing
74 items. Other results of the summit included the announcement
of the Seoul Development Consensus for Shared Growth, the
Multiyear Action Plan, and the Anti-Corruption Action Plan.
The Seoul Summit Leaders Declaration stressed the role of
developing and emerging countries in a move to put an end to
258

259

Inter-Korea
Relations

Historical Background
Simultaneous Admission of the two Koreas to the UN
Inter-Korean Exchanges and Cooperation
Efforts for Lasting Peace

the division of Korea into two separate countries.

Inter-Korea Relations

fronts, igniting a three-year internecine war. Since the signing of

the armistice agreement on the 27th July 1953, the Peninsula has

On June 25, 1950, North Korea attacked the South on all

remained divided.

Simultaneous Admission of the two Koreas to the UN

Although conflicts and confrontations have raged between the two

Even before the Inter-Korean Summits held in 2000 and 2007,

Koreas across the DMZ for over sixty-five years, an atmosphere of

an atmosphere of reconciliation emerged as a result of the South

dialogue and exchange and cooperation was fostered temporarily

Korean governments northern diplomacy. As a result, the two

between the two countries following the Summits held in 2000

Koreas agreed to join the UN simultaneously at the 46th UN

and 2007. However, there is tension along the DMZ at present due

General Assembly in September 1991.

to the Norths continuing threats and provocations.

Their simultaneous admittance to the UN had historic

significance, as it brought to an end the legitimacy controversy

Historical Background

between the two countries and ushered in an era of reconciliation

With Japans surrender in the Pacific War in August 1945 four

and coexistence.

decades of Japanese colonial rule ended and U.S. and Soviet

June 25, 1950

Outbreak of the Korean War

262

troops came to be stationed on the Korean Peninsula to both the

Inter-Korean Exchanges and Cooperation

south and north of the 38th parallel respectively. This resulted in

Between September 1990 and October 1992, the two Koreas

July 27, 1953

The signing of the Armistice Agreement

July 4, 1972

Announcement of South-North Joint

Statement on July 4, 1972

November 30, 1972

The first meeting of the South-North

Coordinating Committee

September 20-23, 1985

The first reunion of dispersed family

members

November 18, 1998

Commencement of South Koreans visit to

Geumgangsan Mountain

263

engaged in a total of eight bilateral meetings, including the first

and cooperation between the two sides. However, the South

High-Level Talks held in Seoul. In December 1991, the two sides

temporarily suspended the supply of food and fertilizers after the

signed the Agreement on Reconciliation, Nonaggression, and

Norths continuing series of provocative actions culminated in the

Exchanges and Cooperation between the South and the North

launch of long-range missiles and nuclear tests, but did not stop

(also called the Inter-Korean Basic Agreement). The agreement

providing humanitarian support for children or emergency relief aid.

was focused on mutual respect between the two nations, the

renunciation of armed aggression, exchange and cooperation

Reunion of Dispersed Family Members

in many sectors, and the guarantee of free exchange of people

There are about ten million dispersed family members in the

between the two countries.

two Koreas.

From the mid-1990s onward, the Souths government

The first Inter-Korean Red Cross meeting was held in August

continued to provide support to the North, which was continuing

1971 to discuss the possibility of reuniting dispersed family

to experience serious economic difficulties.

members, but little progress was made due to differences of

In the period 1999-2007, the South supplied a total of 2.55

opinion. The two sides resumed the meeting in the 1980s, and,

million tons of fertilizers to the North in an effort to help the

finally, reciprocal visits materialized. A group of thirty people

North Korean people who were suffering from a food shortage

from the North paid a visit to the South while a group of thirty-

caused by the inefficiency of the Norths farming system and a

five people from the South paid a visit to the North for four days

lack of fertilizers and chemicals.

from September 20, 1985. It was a truly significant event after 40

The Inter-Korean Summits held in 2000 and 2007 provided

the momentum for a dramatic invigoration of dialogue, exchange,

June 13-15, 2000

The first inter-Korean Summit

264

September 15, 2000

Athletes of the two Koreas at the opening

ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics

June 30, 2003

Commencement of the work on the

Gaeseong Industrial Complex

years of division. The two sides also allowed exchanges between

groups of artists during the event.

September 19, 2005

The joint statement on non-nuclearization of the Korean Peninsula

announced at the 4th Six-Party Talks

September 19, 2005

The second inter-Korean Summit

265

The family reunion became a routine event following the Summit

held in 2000, and was subsequently held on eighteen occasions

Production volume and workers of Gaeseong Industrial Complex

between August 2000 and October 2010. The North provided a

46,950
40,185

special venue at Geumgangsan Mountain for these reunions. In

32,332
25,142

addition, video reunions were carried out on seven different occasions

22,378

25,648

18,478

between August of 2005 and November of 2007.

53,448

7,373

52,329

49,866
46,284
42,561

Gaeseong Industrial Complex

38,931

The Gaeseong Industrial Complex Project carried out by the

1,491

North allows private businesses from the South to build factories

11,160

on leased land in Gaeseong (lease period: 50 years) and produce

6,013

goods. Gaeseong is the third largest city in the North after

2005

Pyeongyang and Nampo. The city offers clear advantages to

businesses from the South due to its close geographical proximity

22,538

2006

2007

2008

2009

Production volume (Unit: Millions of dollars)

2010

2011

2012

2013

(Source: Ministry of Unification)

Number of North Korean workers

to the South. Gaeseong is only 8km from Panmunjeom.

Following an initial proposal made in 2000, the project
was formally commenced in November 2002 with the Norths

and economic celebrities from the two sides in attendance. At

promulgation of the Gaeseong Industrial District Act. The work

present, more than 130 manufacturers from the South and their

commencement ceremony was held in June 2003, with political

subcontractors are operating in the Gaeseong Industrial Complex,

while more than 50,000 North Koreans are working there. The
production of goods began in December 2004.

December 5, 2007

December 11, 2007

Concerning the Gaeseong Industrial Complex, the two sides

have signed four agreements on the Normalization of Gaeseong
Industrial complex, etc. in addition to the agreements on
communications, customs clearance, quarantine, and stay.

Efforts for Lasting Peace

Commencement of South Koreans' visit to Gaeseong

266

Commencement of freight transportation on rail between Munsan

in the South and Bongdong in the North

The government of the South has made efforts for a permanent

settlement of peace on the Korean Peninsula and the
267

development of good relations with the North through dialogues

and exchange and cooperation. It has stuck to its basic stance, i.e.
it will continue to strive to improve its relations with the North
through dialogue and cooperation even during periods of extreme
tension such as that occasioned by the Norths temporary closure
of the Gaeseong Industrial Complex. Generally speaking, the
government of the South and the South Korean people have
succeeded in maintaining a calm and stable social atmosphere.
The South copes flexibly with all outbreaks of tension on the
Korean Peninsula by continuing dialogue and cooperation to
maintain peace with neighboring countries. As such, South Korea
may be claimed to be one of the safest countries in the world.
Since its inauguration in February 2013, the Park Geunhye government of the South has been pushing ahead with
the Trust Building Process on the Korean Peninsula in a bid to
develop better relations with the North, primarily by building
trust between the two Koreas based on a solid national security
stance, securing peace on the Korean Peninsula, and laying the
basis for unification. The government is doing its best to promote
deterrence, dialogue and cooperation in a balanced fashion and
to encourage the North to make the right choices, including
renunciation of its nuclear program. It will accelerate its efforts
for joint development with the North in order to lay the basis for
peaceful unification, and will also make efforts to contribute to
peace and prosperity in Northeast Asia and the world through the
countrys unification.

268

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Relevant Websites

Korean Cultural Center, Brazil

brazil.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

www.mcst.go.kr

Cultural Heritage Administration

www.cha.go.kr

Gateway to Korea

Korean Cultural Center, UK

london.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

www.mafra.go.kr

Rural Development Administration

www.rda.go.kr

Korean Culture and Information Service

www.korea.net

Korean Cultural Center, Germany

germany.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy

www.motie.go.kr

Korea Forest Service

www.forest.go.kr

Korea Tourism Organization

www.visitkorea.or.kr

Korean Cultural Center, France

www.coree-culture.org

Ministry of Health and Welfare

www.mw.go.kr

Small and Medium Business Administration

www.smba.go.kr

Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency

www.kotra.or.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Russia

russia.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Environment
www.me.go.kr

Korean Intellectual Property Office

www.kipo.go.kr

Korean Cultural Information

Korean Cultural Center, Kazakhstan

kaz.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Employment and Labor

www.moel.go.kr

Korea Meteorological Administration

www.kma.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, China

china.korean-culture.org

Korean Cultural Center, Turkey

tr.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Gender Equality and Family

www.mogef.go.kr

Multifunctional Administrative City Construction

www.macc.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Shanghai

shanghai.korean-culture.org

Korean Cultural Center, Poland

pl.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport

www.molit.go.kr

Korea Coast Guard

www.kcg.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Tokyo

www.koreanculture.jp

Korean Cultural Center, Hungary

hu.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries

www.mof.go.kr

Korea Communications Commission

www.kcc.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Osaka

osaka.korean-culture.org

Korean Cultural Center, Spain

www.spain.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Government Legislation

www.moleg.go.kr

Korea Fair Trade Commission

www.ftc.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Vietnam

vietnam.korean-culture.org

Korean Cultural Center, Belgium

brussels.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs

www.mpva.go.kr

Financial Services Commission

www.fsc.go.kr

Korean Cultural Office, Sydney

koreanculture.org.au

Korean Cultural Center, Nigeria

ngr.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Food and Drug Safety

www.mfds.go.kr

Anti-corruption & Civil Rights Commission of Korea

www.acrc.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Philippines

phil.korean-culture.org

Executive Branch

National Tax Service

www.nts.go.kr

Nuclear Safety and Security Commission

www.nssc.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Indonesia

id.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Strategy and Finance

www.mosf.go.kr

Korea Customs Service

www.customs.go.kr

Legislature

Korean Cultural Center, Thailand

thailand.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning

www.msip.go.kr

Public Procurement Service

www.pps.go.kr

The National Assembly

www.assembly.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, India

india.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Education
www.moe.go.kr

Statistics Korea
www.kostat.go.kr

Judiciary

Korean Cultural Center, Washington, D.C

www.koreaculturedc.org

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

www.mofa.go.kr

Supreme Prosecutors Office

www.spo.go.kr

Korean Cultural Service, NewYork

www.koreanculture.org

Ministry of Unification
www.unikorea.go.kr

Military Manpower Administration

www.mma.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, L.A.

www.kccla.org

Ministry of Justice
www.moj.go.kr

Defense Acquisition Program Administration

www.dapa.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center, Argentina

argentina.korean-culture.org

Ministry of National Defense

www.mnd.go.kr

Korean National Police Agency

www.police.go.kr

Korean Cultural Center Mexico

mexico.korean-culture.org

Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs

www.mospa.go.kr

National Emergency Management Agency

www.nema.go.kr

270

Supreme Court
www.scourt.go.kr
Independent Organizations
Constitutional Court
www.ccourt.go.kr
National Election Commission
www.nec.go.kr
National Human Right Commission
www.humanrights.go.kr

271

Sources of Photos
Andong Festival Tourism Foundation

Korean Cultural Properties Craftsman Association

Anseong Muncipal Namsadang Baudeogi Pungmuldan

Korean Olympic Committee

Archaeological Site in Amsa-dong, Seoul

KTV

Boryeong Mud Festival

Kyujanggak Institute For Korean Studies

BUSAN International Film Festival

Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art

Cheonan Foundation for Arts and Culture

Munhwailbo(Newsbank)

Cheung-ju Early Printing Museum

Nara Organizing Comittee

Chosunilbo

National Folk Museum of Korea

Chungdong First Methodist Church

National Gugak Center

Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea

National Museum of Korea

DAEGU METROPOLITAN CITY

National Palace Museum of Korea

Discovery media

Newdaily

Ewhamedia

NEWSIS

Gagok Inheritance Center

OhmyNews

Gangjin Celadon Museum

Photographer Kim Bien Hun

Gangneung Danoje Festival Committee

Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival

GWANGJU BIENNALE FOUNDATION

Seo Heun Kang

Gyeongju National Museum

Seocheon County

Haeinsa Temple

Shuttrestock

Hanbit Nuclear Power Plant

Suh jae sik

Hasisi Park

The Korean Taekgeon Association

Incheon Free Economic Zone

The National Library of Korea

Incheon International Airport Corporation

The traditional Paper Artist Association

Institute of Traditional Korean Food

The Yeongsanjae Ritual

Jeju Olle Foundation

Tong Yeong-City

Jeju World Natural Heritage Center

TOPIC IMAGES

JEONGOK PREHISTORY MUSEUM

Travel Writer Lee Dong Mi

Jeonju International Film Festival

Victory Production & Company

Jongmyo Jerye Preservation Association

Yangdong Village Committee

JoongAng Ilbo

Yangyang County

KANSONG ART AND CULTURE FOUNDATION

Yeondeunghoe Preservation Committee

Kim Cheol Hwan

YG ENTERTAINMENT INC

KOCIS(Korean Culture and Information Service)

Yonart Printing

Korea Meteorological Administration

Yonhap News Agency

Korea National Park Service

Yoon's Color

Korea Tourism Organization

272