Korea - Expo Osaka 1970

© Expo'70

The Republic of Korea pavilion was themed "Better Understanding and Friendship" and was a mixture of old and new. The pavilion was surrounded by 15 large steel columns, each 30 metres high and 4 metres in diameter, symbolising Korean achievements in industrialisation.

At the entrance to the pavilion was a replica of a giant bell, "Shin Jong" (God's Bell), which was cast by a master craftsman in the 8th century.

The exhibits revealed Korea's history and progress to become an independent and self-sufficient nation, and presented its wishes for the future.

On the upper floor, examples of celadon and other ceramics, metal artworks, and traditional musical instruments were displayed. Also shown was Korea's greatest contribution to world progress in metal, furniture and printing.

This type of printing was in use in Korea more than 200 years before Gutenberg introduced a similar method to Europe.

The floor below reflected the remarkable progress of modern Korea. The exhibits consisted mainly of photographs, and mosaics illustrating the country's natural beauty, resources and industrialised population.

A special room on the same floor, staffed by competent personnel, provided foreign businessmen with detailed information on Korean products.

Plans for future developments were presented in the annex, designed to resemble a Korean ship. Each side had 13 moving oars, symbolising the continuous advancement of Korea.

Visitors could buy colourful souvenirs in the souvenir shop on the first floor.