Displayed in the venue of the exhibition are models of gates to the tomb, stone columns and stone walls of Koguryo tombs enabling visitors to have visual look at the contemporary architecture of tombs. On display there in a chronological order are photos and explanations of diverse themes including politics, economy, culture, military affairs and customs as well as 80 photos showing the cooperation between the DPRK and the organization and their activities for the preservation of the relics.

Present at the opening ceremony were Director-General Irina Bokova and other personages of UNESCO, representatives of the DPRK and different countries to the organization, figures of different social standings in France and other people.

Speeches were made at the ceremony.

Irina Bokova in her speech said that the mural paintings dating back to Koguryo, a country well-known for its power and prosperity for nearly 1 000 years from 277 B.C., constitute a precious wealth for the Korean people.

Saying that the mural paintings in Koguryo tombs were registered as World Heritage in 2004 as famous art pieces symbolic of the contemporary era, she stressed that the UNESCO's activities will make contribution to regional peace and stability.

The exhibition will last till Oct. 26.

The France-Korea Friendship Association posted on its Internet homepage on Oct. 12 the news of opening of the exhibition, stating that it will offer an opportunity for better understanding of the time-honored history, culture and customs of Korea.