The Academy of Korean Studies has published an English text detailing 21 icons representing Korean culture.

Selected cultural assets include the "Joseonwangjosillok" court journals of the Joseon Dynasty, the "Palmandaejangkyong" Buddhist Scriptures, and the "Hunminjeongeum" manuscript promulgating the Korean writing system.

Also included are Jeju Island, Pyongyang, Mount Baekdu, kimchi, bibimbap, “hanbok” traditional attire, ginseng, "pansori" operas and Korea’s deep, Confucian-based filial love known as “hyo.”

The academy will distribute copies of the book to the nation’s overseas missions and Korean studies institutes as a way to promote foreigners’ understanding of Korea.