International Relations

Since its founding in 1948, the Republic of Korea has been committed to the concepts of democracy and a free-market economy, but its foreign relations have undergone significant changes since its founding. As U.S.-USSR relations divided much of the world into two antagonistic blocs following World War II, the Republic of Korea pursued its foreign relations in concert with the democratic nations of the We...

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Economic Exchanges

In the wake of the Cold War, a distinct trend toward regionalism emerged. Countries like the Republic of Korea, which have pursued export-led growth, found themselves facing a different international economic environment than in the past. Korea's export growth mostly depended on trade with advanced countries ― the United States, Japan and the European Union. This has often caused friction over trade imbal...

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International Peace and Cooperation

The Republic of Korea joined the United Nations in September 1991, expanding its active participation in multilateral diplomacy in tandem with its elevated global standing economically. Even before joining the UN, however, the Republic of Korea was active in such specialized UN agencies as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the United ...

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Future Policy Directions

The Republic of Korea will take a more positive stance with a greater vision and carry out global diplomacy in active cooperation with the international community. Transcending the differences in race, religion, and wealth, Korea will befriend all nations and peoples. Respecting the universal principles of democracy and market economics, we will take part in the global movement for peace and development. The ...

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UNESCO Treasures in Korea

World Heritage ▲The majestic entrance to Bulguksa Temple UNESCO has recognized the unique value and the distinct character of Korean culture by placing a number of Korean treasures on the World Heritage List. In 1995, UNESCO added to its list Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do (North Gyeongsang Province); Haeinsa Temple Janggyeongpanjeon, the depositories for the Tripitaka Korean...

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Korean traditional medical book gains world heritage status

Donguibogam, treature No. 1085 (Photo: The Cultural Heritage Administration) The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on Friday (July 31) that a well-known traditional Korean medical encyclopedia on oriental medicine has gained world heritage status with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). UNESCO decided to add the book, known as "Donguibogam" (pronounced as "Dong-uib...

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