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A sundial made during the Joseon era is revealed to the press on Nov. 17 at the National Palace Museum of Korea. (photos by Baek So-ah)

A sundial made during the Joseon era, known as the Angbuilgu, has returned to Korea. According to the Cultural Heritage Administration, the sundial was returned to Korean soil in August after the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation purchased it at a US auction in June. Experts say the Angbuilgu was made sometime in either the 18th or 19th century, but it’s unclear as to when the sundial was taken overseas. The Angbuilgu, literally “cauldron-shaped clock that tells time based on shadows produced by the sun,” will be on display at the National Palace Museum of Korea until Dec. 20.

By Baek So-ah, staff photographer

Please direct comments or questions to [english@hani.co.kr]

Inscriptions on the sundial have led experts to believe it was made sometime in either the 18th or 19th century.