An increasing number of foreign tourists are interested in the history, culture and customs of the Korean nation.
The Korea National Heritage International Travel Company was established last year to satisfy their demand and provide various tourist services for them.
Korea, blessed with a 5 000-year history and beautiful mountains and streams, has rich national heritage.
On display at the Korean Central History Museum and the Korean Art Gallery are over 100 000 historical relics and materials, tomb murals dating back to the period before the 4th century and Korean paintings, oil paintings, sculptures, lacquerware and various other works of art of modern times.
Tourists will be able to know that Korea is one of the cradles of human civilization as they see the Komunmoru Site of a million years ago, pipha-shaped dagger from the Bronze Age, the world’s earliest metal type, world-famous Koryo celadon, medical classics, tombs with murals from the period of the Koguryo Kingdom inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
They can travel to twelve historical sites also inscribed on the World Heritage list including the Mausoleum of King Wang Kon, founder of Koryo (918-1392) which was the first unified state in the Korean history, and Panmunjom and the “concrete walls”, symbol of Korea’s division, in Kaesong well known for indigenous Koryo insam (ginseng).
In such world-renowned tourist resorts as Mts Kumgang and Myohyang they can see more than 1000-year-old buildings showcasing the features of the excellent Korean architecture and beautiful natural scenery.
During their stay they can make kimchi, Pyongyang cold noodle and songi mushroom dish by themselves. The custom of kimchi making has been listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage item.
The number of applicants for tourist goods to the company is on the rise.
Over 170 directors of travel companies and tourist businesspersons from Russia, China and Canada got together in Pyongyang in November and December last year to hold a seminar on national heritage tour in a bid to increase the scope of the tour.
The company makes plans to develop a variety of themes of tourism including tent tour.
The tent tour in the peak season of July and August will provide tourists with opportunities to go camping at such scenic attractions as Mt Chilbo, collect edible greens and prepare dishes with them and climb mountains.
Those who are interested in Korea’s traditional architecture are perhaps allowed to take part in repairs of historical buildings.
The itinerary and length of stay vary according to the route of visit and the mode of tour.
Many foreign partners hope to work together with the Korea National Heritage International Travel Company.
Tel: 0085-02-381-18111 (Ext) 341-8290
E-mail: [email protected]