The first batch of ancient Korean books that France has promised to return to South Korea is expected to arrive in the nation next week.

National Museum of Korea Director Kim Young-na said Wednesday that the museum is consulting with French officials on having the first shipment of “Oegyujanggak” books arrive in the nation on Thursday next week. Kim said the first set will be immediately transported to the museum upon their arrival.

The first batch is expected to include around 50 books out of the 297 “Oegyujanggak” books that were looted by French soldiers in the mid-19th century.

South Korea and France have agreed to the return of all 297 in four installments between the end of March and May.

The National Museum plans to hold a public event promoting the books around the end of next month when all the entire collection is returned.

Oegyujanggak, or “Outer Gyujanggak,” was an auxiliary facility of the “Gyujanggak,” which was the royal library during the Joseon Dynasty.