By Honorary Reporter Mae Young from Philippines

Photos: Mae Young

To mark the first anniversary of the opening of the former presidential compound of Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul to the public, the exhibition "The Story of Our Presidents" was opened on June 1 and runs through Aug. 28. 

In addition to viewing a unique collection of personal items of presidents over the last 75 years, visitors can walk through areas of the compound previously inaccessible when the head of state lived there. 

As the first of its kind, the exhibition displays 12 items showing the hobbies and interests of each leader. Photos capture how these items were used and short explanations highlight each president's term in short but significant history lessons.

The following are three items that stood out to me.

President Syngman Rhee always carried his English-language typewriter.

President Rhee's English-language typewriter
The English-language typewriter of President Syngman Rhee, the nation's first leader, is quite popular among visitors. This machine was always in his bag from the days of the pro-independence movement and used to write diplomatic documents.

This sketch is of President Park Chung-hee's pet dog.

President Park's pet dog sketch

This pencil sketch of a pet dog was by President Park Chung-hee, the country’s longest-serving head of state. Working as a teacher before joining the military, he studied calligraphy, painting and music as required subjects for those wishing to enter the profession. He was an avid artist who carried a drawing notebook at all times.

President Kim Dae-jung used this water bucket and shears to do gardening while in exile.

President Kim Dae-jung's gardening bucket and shears

The winner of the 2000 Nobel Peace Prize, President Kim Dae-jung tended to flowers as well as read books during his years-long house arrest.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.