The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has briefed the National Assembly on the return of ancient books from France.

One ruling Grand National Party lawmaker said he congratulated the return of the cultural artifacts that had been achieved after 18 years of efforts. He also called for the fast return of other cultural artifacts that had been looted by other nations.

However, a main opposition Democratic Party lawmaker said there was a problem with the way the “Oegyujanggak” books are being returned. She argued that international law dictates that plundered cultural assets be returned, but the Oegyujanggak books are being returned to South Korea on a renewable five-year lease.

Culture Minister Choung Byoung-gug responded by saying that the UNESCO agreement on the return of looted cultural assets took effect from 1992, and does not work for items looted before 1992. He said a team dedicated to recovering Korean artifacts plundered by other nations will be organized and continue pushing for their return.