The National Library of Korea is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a special exhibition titled “My Dream, Our Record, Koreans’ Bookshelf,” which opened on October 15. The exhibition showcases over 200 national treasures and treasures with original editions displayed across 23 themed bookshelves.
Among the highlights is the original manuscript of “Donguibogam,” a medical book compiled by the Joseon period physician Heo Jun, which hadn’t been displayed to the public since 2009. It is recognized as both a national treasure and a UNESCO Memory of the World.
Also on display for the first time is the original of “Seokbosangjeol,” a Buddhist scripture and the first Korean book printed using metal movable type, which dates back to the era of King Sejong who commissioned the work in memory of his deceased wife, Queen Soheon.
The exhibition offers a journey through the history of Korean reading culture, from the creation of the Korean script, Hangul, to the literary activities of educated women in their quarters during the later Joseon period. Notable works include “Gyuhap Chongseo,” an encyclopedia for women written by Bing Heo-gak Yi in Hangul.
Additionally, visitors can see modern classics such as Yi Kwang-su’s “The Heartless,” recognized as the first modern Korean novel, and issues of magazines like “Boy” and “Youth.” Other significant publications include the posthumous poetry collection of Yun Dong-ju.
Biographies and impactful records are also part of the exhibition, including the life of labor activist Jeon Tae-il and documents from the Gwangju Uprising.
Popular bestsellers from various times, such as Yoo Hong-jun’s “Journey to Korean Cultural Heritage,” are on display too. A special “T1’s Bookshelf” features selections made by members of the eSports team T1.
The exhibition, running until December 14, aims to reflect on the nation’s dreams and records, echoing the evolution from books being privileges for the elite to stories for and by the people.