Korea University opens special exhibition celebrating 120 years of academic legacy, vision

Korea University President Kim Dong-one, fifth from right, and other participants cut a ribbon during the opening ceremony of the university’s 120th anniversary special exhibition at the Korea University Museum in Seongbuk District, Seoul. Yonhap

Korea University unveiled a special exhibition on Wednesday to commemorate its 120th anniversary, with an opening ceremony held at the university’s Centennial Memorial Samsung Hall.

Jointly organized by the university’s museum and library, the exhibition highlights Korea University’s enduring commitment to academic excellence and civic engagement. It also looks ahead, outlining the institution’s aspirations for the next 120 years.

The exhibition showcases 120 rare artifacts and more than 170 items, including several nationally designated cultural treasures. Among the highlights are Donggwoldo, a detailed painting of Changdeok and Changgyeong Palaces; Honcheonsigye, an intricate astronomical clock; and a celadon jar adorned with stamped chrysanthemum patterns.

A key feature of the exhibition is the oldest known printed edition of Hunminjeongeum, the historic document that introduced the Korean script. The artifact is being made available for public viewing for the first time in 90 years.

Divided into five thematic sections, each named after characters in the university’s Korean name, the exhibition explores key themes through an array of cultural and historical materials.

The first section delves into astronomy and philosophy, while the second section explores beauty in daily life through traditional clothing, jewelry, ceramics and modern art. The third section presents maps, travelogues and landscape paintings that reflect Korea’s historical worldview.

The fourth section exhibits scholarly texts and traditional medical manuscripts, while the final section revisits pivotal moments in the university’s history — including the March 1st Independence Movement trial records, the first draft of Korea’s Constitution and modern research achievements like Korea’s first autonomous vehicle.

Open to the public, the exhibition opened Thursday and runs until Dec. 20 at the Korea University Museum’s main galleries.