Originally named Hunminjeongeum (the correct sounds to instruct the people), it was invented by King Sejong in 1443. Later, it was named Hangul (great single alphabet) by a Korean linguist in 1910, and Hangul Day was established in 1926. Hangul has been through the peaks and valleys of Korean history, influencing society, since its birth. Hangul itself may reflect the past, present and future of Korea. The symposium celebrates Hangul Day, focusing on the era of its dramatic rise and prosperity in the entire Korean peninsula.