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South Korea DMZ Security Explained: What’s the Difference Between GP and GOP?

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  South Korea DMZ Security Explained: What’s the Difference Between GP and GOP? Understanding the Real Frontline on the Korean Peninsula Since the Korean War, the Korean Peninsula remains the world’s only divided nation. At the heart of this division lies the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), along with GOPs (General Out Posts) and GPs (Guard Posts) that monitor and defend it. These are not just military facilities but critical structures that manage tension and prevent conflict between North and South Korea. In this article, we explain the differences and roles of these three key elements to help you better understand Korean Peninsula security. GP and GOP? The Frontline Story Inside the DMZ What is the DMZ? The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) was established under the 1953 Korean War Armistice Agreement as a military buffer zone. It stretches 2 kilometers south and 2 kilometers north of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), making a total width of 4 kilometers. Within this zone, weapons de...
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Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido: A Masterpiece of Korean Astronomy and a Global Scientific Heritage(part-1)

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Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido: A Masterpiece of Korean Astronomy and a Global Scientific Heritage(part-1)

Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido (Map of the Constellations and Regions of the Heavens) is the oldest known full celestial chart in the world based on observation records. Completed in 1395, the 4th year of King Taejo’s reign (founder of the Joseon Dynasty), it was engraved onto a massive black stone slab (oseok) the following year in 1396. This chart represents the culmination of Korea’s unique astronomical observation traditions and is widely regarded as one of the most precise and scientifically valuable star maps in East Asian history.

Chart of the Constellations and Regions of the Sky


1. Historical Background and Origins

Soon after founding the Joseon Dynasty, King Taejo Yi Seong-gye ordered the creation of a star map to assert the legitimacy and scientific prowess of the new regime. Scholars recovered fragments of Goryeo-era star charts and revised them under the direction of the Royal Bureau of Astronomy (Seoungwan). Eleven scholars, including Kwon Geun, Ryu Bang-taek, and Kwon Jung-hwa, played key roles in compiling the chart. Some historical sources claim that the final version was not completed until the reign of King Sejong.

The stone engraving was forgotten for centuries, especially after palace fires during the Japanese invasions of the late 16th century. However, it was re-carved and preserved in 1687 (the 13th year of King Sukjong’s reign) using the weathered original as a model. Both the original (Taejo version) and the Sukjong-era reproduction survive today. The original was designated National Treasure No. 228 in 1985, while the later version is classified as a Treasure of Korea.

2. Structure and Scientific Precision

Centered on the North Star (Polaris), the chart includes the celestial equator, ecliptic, 28 lunar lodges (oriental constellations), 12 Earthly Branches, and the 12 zodiac signs of the ecliptic. It precisely marks the locations of stars and distinguishes them by brightness. A total of 1,467 stars are grouped into 283 constellations, far more than the modern standard of 88 constellations.

Each constellation is linked to Polaris by carefully calculated lines, and even the angle of elevation of Polaris, based on the latitude of the observer in Korea, is accounted for. The map also includes the 24 solar terms, star entry angles, celestial sector diagrams, and references to classical astronomical theories like Noncheonseol, making it not just a star chart but a compendium of astronomical, geographic, and scientific knowledge.

3. Cultural and Historical Significance

Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido is more than a scientific artifact; it is powerful evidence of the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Korean people in ancient times. It is believed to be based on earlier Goguryeo traditions and in some respects even precedes Chinese celestial charts in accuracy and representation. Some scholars have noted similarities with the Kitora Tomb star chart in Japan, dated to the 7th–8th centuries.

A unique constellation named Jongdaebu (宗大夫), which does not appear in Chinese records, is included in the chart. This constellation later influenced Japanese star maps, such as those created by Shibukawa Harumi in the 17th century—demonstrating Korea’s impact on East Asian astronomy..

Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunya Jido (Stone Inscription)


4. Rediscovery and Modern Legacy

The global significance of the chart was first highlighted in 1936 by American scholar W.C. Rufus in his paper Astronomy in Korea. Despite this, the artifact fell into obscurity during the Japanese colonial period and the Korean War. In the 1960s, the stone chart was rediscovered abandoned near Myeongjeongjeon Hall in Changgyeonggung Palace and has since received renewed academic and public interest.

In 1985, the Taejo-era original was officially designated a national treasure, and in 2007, a replica was featured on the back of South Korea’s ₩10,000 banknote. However, astronomers criticized inaccuracies in the replication of star positions and magnitudes on the bill.

In 2006, Shinhan Bank successfully repatriated a wooden version of the map held by Tenri University in Japan. Furthermore, the map was featured in the opening ceremony of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, showcasing its legacy to a global audience.

We, as humans, are also one with the universe.


5. Cultural Property Information

  • Name: Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido Stone Engraving

  • Designation: National Treasure of Korea No. 228 (designated August 9, 1985)

  • Location: National Palace Museum of Korea, Jongno District, Seoul

  • Dimensions: Width 122.8 cm, Height 200.9 cm

  • Date of Creation: 1395 (4th year of King Taejo's reign)

6. Conclusion: A Legacy of Scientific and Cultural Pride

Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido is far more than a star map. It symbolizes the scientific sophistication and cultural identity of the Korean people. Its level of accuracy and technical refinement is rarely matched, even globally. It clearly shows that Korea was at the forefront of astronomical science in East Asia.

Today, it remains a strong candidate for inclusion in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register and stands as one of Korea’s most treasured scientific and cultural heritages.


PART-2 READING

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