Mining helped power Korea’s economic miracle of the 20th century. However, as the nation’s economy grew and transformed, many mines fell into disuse. For years, they remained abandoned, a forgotten legacy of the past.

In recent years, however, Koreans have been finding new uses for these important pieces of the country’s industrial heritage. In some places, disused mine tunnels have been transformed into spectacles of light and creativity. In others, quarries have been reclaimed by nature, offering visitors inspiring views of the great outdoors. Still more have been turned into art galleries, history museums and the like.

In this issue of KOREA, we’ll look at some old mines that have been creatively adapted to new uses. We’ll also try some old miners’ dishes, talk with one of Korea’s hottest string quartets, look at one of the latest attempts to create a “Korean-style hero movie” and more.