Korea has contributed substantially to the formation and development of Eastern Civilization. In the "Korea's Past" section, you will see how Korea's historic cultural assets and wisdom have enriched both Korea itself and the whole of Oriental civilization.

For example, the Korean people are proud to have invented the world's first metal printing type, rain gauge, and iron-clad naval vessel, to mention only the material side of their heritage.

Of even greater interest to today's energy-conscious world is the Korean "Ondol" heating system, a model of which is featured in the main exhibition area of the Korean Pavilion. This ingenious floor-heating method symbolizes the creativity of a culture in which energy conservation has been a traditional, not merely modern-day concern.

Korea's artistic legacy is clearly shown in the various remains and relics of the ancient city of Kyongju, widely regarded to be one of the world's ten most important historical sites. In this part of the exhibition, you will see precious artifacts such as the golden crown of Shilla, the oldest astronomical observatory in the Orient, and the renowned Bulguksa Temple.

We are grateful for this opportunity to give you a perspective on the growth and development of modern Korea, including some insights on how traditional Korean culture is coping with the contemporary challenge of energy conservation. Thus, we hope to promote better understanding and cultural communication between the American and Korean Peoples on the occasion of the centennial of U.S.-Korean diplomatic relations.

As you take a glimpse at the "New Horizon in Korea" represented in this exhibit, we hope you will gain a better appreciation of the indomitable will of the Korean people which alone has made possible the past and present achievements of a 5,000-year-old culture.