The first batch of ancient Korean royal books which the French stole in 1866 will be returned to South Korea after 145 years.

The Culture Ministry says the 75 books of the 297-volume "Oegyujanggak" 외규장각 will arrive Thursday afternoon at Incheon International Airport. The books had been kept at the National Library of France.

After going through customs, the books will be transported to the National Museum of Korea in a special, tremor-free vehicle.

The ministry says the texts will arrive in four installments through May 27th.

The royal books from the Joseon Dynasty describe the protocols of royal ceremonies and rituals in writing and painting. The books that had been held at the National Library of France are of the highest quality, those especially made for the use of kings. Among those, about 30 books now remain in single copies.