1 .” Kingdom of Astronomy ” The history of astronomy in Korea is rich and varied , with over 20,000 observations of astronomical phenomena accumulated over the course of 2,000 years . These records are a valuable source for modern astronomers , firstly for their historical reach , and secondly for their reliability . Of the main nations in East Asia , for example , Korean records of solar eclipses show the highest rate of accuracy .
2 .” Noteworthy Astronomical Records ” Ancient Korean astronomical data is still used in research today , as it gives us valuable information about cosmic events that occurred before the use of telescopes . The records of sunspots and auroras were detailed enough to allow conclusions to be drawn about astronomical cycles that have only recently become established theories . Comets were also faithfully observed ; for example , Korea possesses the most exhaustive account of a comet appearance ever written . Reports of meteors and meteoric showers also provide astronomers with an insight into the evolution of the solar system .
3 . “ The World ’ s Oldest Surviving Observatory .” Chomsongdae ( constructed in the 7 th century ), the world ’ s oldest observatory , was built during the Silla period , and is rich in astronomical symbolism as well as being carefully designed for its scientific purpose . Built on the palace grounds , it was tall enough to offer a wide and unobstructed view of the heavens .
4 .” The Legacy of Koguryo ” ( current Romanization - Goguryeo )” Goguryeo ( 37 BC – 668 CE ), one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea , left behind many stone-chamber murals depicting star patterns . Its most important legacy is a star map confirmed as the oldest complete representation of the skies in the world . It lies hidden within a later Joseon star map , based upon the Koguryo original , but its true age and origins can be inferred from the stellar positions .
5 . “ Astronomy under King Sejong ( 1397-1450 )” The construction of an advanced astronomical observatory in 1438 meant that eclipses could be predicted with accuracy to the very second of their occurrence . It also enabled national ceremonies to be performed without error and to calculate calendar periods correctly to six significant figures . As a result , Korea was one of only
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