Korean Heritage

Pocket dictionary

The National Library of Korea is holding an exhibition on ancient dictionaries. The exhibition displays about 170 dictionaries from the past and runs until Jan. 31. Seen here is a 9-centimeter (3.54 inches) long, pocket-size dictionary from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The aristocrats of Joseon carried the book and referred to it whenever needed. The book, printed by a bronze block, contained information like family lineages of the Joseon kings, important commemorative days, names of government organizations and titles as well as the formalities of weddings and other rituals. [NATIONAL LIBRARY OF KOREA]