Journal

Korean Mask – a façade that reveals one's inner desires
Korean Mask – a façade that reveals one's inner desires
The Korean mask is a unique dichotomous symbol, embodying the significance of tradition while allowing the wearer to realize full self-expression and liberation. <Various Korean masks.> <T... Read more...
WORLD HERITAGE: Gyeongju Historic Areas - a unique outdoor museum
WORLD HERITAGE: Gyeongju Historic Areas - a unique outdoor museum
This region of the country houses a wonderful collection of Korean Buddhist art from the ancient Silla Kingdom, which can be found both above and below ground. <Great Royal Tombs (Daereungwon)&g... Read more...
WORLD HERITAGE: Seokguram Grotto - an extraordinary Buddhist cave temple built by hand
WORLD HERITAGE: Seokguram Grotto - an extraordinary Buddhist cave temple built by hand
This phenomenal cave temple houses a large, exquisitely carved Buddha statue looking out to sea. The artificial cave, built on top of a mountain, was constructed using complex mathematical theories... Read more...
WORLD HERITAGE: Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty - structural and natural magnificence to honor the ancestors
WORLD HERITAGE: Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty - structural and natural magnificence to honor the ancestors
The ancient tradition of ancestral worship is perpetuated in modern times through the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty. Located in areas of sublime beauty, the tombs are sacred structures that ins... Read more...
WORLD HERITAGE: Hwaseong Fortress - a splendid battlement with a sorrowful history
WORLD HERITAGE: Hwaseong Fortress - a splendid battlement with a sorrowful history
A magnificent stronghold was built by an emperor at the end of the 18th century to house his beloved fathers remains. <Banghwa Suryu Pavilion and Hwahong Gate> When Emperor Joengjo of the Jo... Read more...
Mountain Fortress of Korea – at "one" with the mountain
Mountain Fortress of Korea – at "one" with the mountain
Nestled amongst Korea's ubiquitous mountains, mountain fortresses are historical reminders of the strength and stability of Korea's culture and "one-ness" with nature. <The spring landscape of ... Read more...
Hangeul (Korean Alphabet) – the sole writing system in the world whose founder is known
Hangeul (Korean Alphabet) – the sole writing system in the world whose founder is known
Originated in the 15th century, hangeul was created by a great king to help the common people become literate. A scientifically advanced alphabet, this exceptional writing system is the only one in... Read more...
Dancheong (Korean art of painting buildings) – colors coexist to create magnificent splendor
Dancheong (Korean art of painting buildings) – colors coexist to create magnificent splendor
Rich in imagery, the ancient practice of painting unique and colorful designs on traditional Korean houses exemplifies peace and stability within an exquisite art form. <Dancheong of Daeungjeon ... Read more...
WORLD NATURAL HERITAGE: Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes - an extraordinary island of dramatic volcanic landscapes
WORLD NATURAL HERITAGE: Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes - an extraordinary island of dramatic volcanic landscapes
A popular destination spot for tourists, Jeju Island - with its shield volcanoes, lava tubes and tuff cones - offers visitors a glimpse into the evolution of the Earth's topography. <Baekrokdam... Read more...
Mudflat of Korea – an ecological wonder
Mudflat of Korea – an ecological wonder
A place of unmistakable beauty, the Korean coastal mudflats hold a rich ecosystem that serves as a home for an abundance of plants and animals as well as a source of food for the local people. <... Read more...
WORLD HERITAGE: Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Wood blocks - incredibly preserved Buddhist texts engraved on blocks of wood
WORLD HERITAGE: Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Wood blocks - incredibly preserved Buddhist texts engraved on blocks of wood
Master craftsmen engraved Buddhist texts onto blocks of wood nearly 800 years ago. They have been remarkably preserved, and are in near perfect condition.   The Temple of Haeinsa on Mo... Read more...
Minyo (Korean Folk Song) – songs of the bittersweet
Minyo (Korean Folk Song) – songs of the bittersweet
The most renowned genre of Korean folk music, minyo reflects the heart of the common people through their words of heartbreak, struggle and despair. Gangwon-do Arirang Performed by Mook Gye-wol, ... Read more...