A replica of a Joseon Dynasty diplomatic ship will sail South Korea's southern coast, visiting port cities from Mokpo to Busan. The voyage aims to promote awareness of UNESCO World Heritage sites ahead of Busan hosting the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session.
Four cultural assets, including Buddhist artifacts from the early Joseon Dynasty and an appointment letter from King Taejong, are slated for designation as national treasures. The items include a wooden statue of the Buddhist deity Jetarā from Sangwonsa Temple in Pyeongchang, an appointment letter for 'Anseong' issued by King Taejong, a rare early printed edition of the 'Yuga Saji Ron' scripture, and the first volume of 'Sambong Seonsaeng Jip,' a collection of writings by Jeong Do-jeon.
Korean retail investors, dubbed 'ants,' are engaging in high-risk, leveraged trading in both domestic and US stock markets, driven by social anxiety and a desire for a quick fortune in a rigid society. Young people are increasingly taking on massive debt, willing to risk total loss to avoid missing potential gains.
UNESCO and ICOMOS experts visited the Joseon Royal Tombs area in South Korea to advise on a development plan near the Taereung and Gangneung sites. The visit aimed to assess the potential impact of constructing 6,800 housing units on the tombs' Outstanding Universal Value.
A replica of 'Banhwa,' a Joseon Dynasty royal bonsai craft, will be displayed in Korea for the first time. Originally gifted to France in 1886, the replica was restored with support from Amorepacific's Sulwhasoo brand and will be shown at the National Palace Museum of Korea and Deoksugung Palace starting May 3rd.
