The World Ceramic Exposition has opened in Ichon, Kyonggi Province.
President Kim Dae-jung was on hand at the opening ceremony. He said the expo will greatly contribute to revitalizing domestic ceramic culture and serve as an opportunity for the country to publicize to the world the excellence of Korean ceramics.
More than two thousand-500 quality ceramics from 82 nations are on display. Visitors can gain hands-on experience at special ceramics making rooms. The 80-day exposition is also taking place in two other cities -- Yoju and Kwangju.
During the exposition period, an international ceramic arts competition, entitled the "World Ceramic Biennale," will also be held.