The Korean House - Foreword

FOREWORD

Since its foundation in 1978, the Academy of Korean Studies has devoted itself to exploring the proper direction for Korea’s future and creating the nation’s unique culture through the promotion of in-depth research of and education about Korean culture. In addition, it has carried out the Understanding Korea Project, which is aimed at propagating an understanding of Korean society, history, and culture to every corner of the world.
As part of the Understanding Korea Project, we annually publish installments of the Understanding Korea Series as a part of our plan to share a variety of original and fascinating aspects of Korea with those overseas who are engaged in education or are deeply interested in Korean culture. For the fifth issue of the series, we have chosen the topic of the Korean house.</p>

With consideration for the diverse climatic and geographical environments on the Korean peninsula, Koreans developed a unique residential space which has exerted a great influence on the dwelling culture of the country. This book reilluminates the development and the transformation of the Korean house from ancient times to the contemporary era. I hope that this book will offer enjoyment and useful information to readers around the world who have a deep interest in Korea.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to those who have contributed continuous effort to publish this series. Appreciation must be particularly expressed for the generous support given for the completion of the book by those including the author, Professor Jeon BongHee of the Department of Architecture at Seoul National University and Kim Hyeon, director of the Center for International Affairs at the Academy, who has spearheaded the Understanding Korea Project.
LEE Bae Yong
President, Academy of Korean Studies