The first inter-Korean summit since the division and reunions of separated families created a mood of reconciliation. Conflict over the separation of prescribing and dispensing roiled the medical community, and Kim Dae-jung became the first Korean to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
The year in Korea
AprThe 16th National Assembly elections were held. [Source]
JunKim Dae-jung and Kim Jong-il held the first inter-Korean summit in Pyongyang and issued the June 15 Joint Declaration. [Source]
JulA system separating prescribing (doctors) from dispensing (pharmacists) took effect. [Source]
AugAround Liberation Day, groups of separated families reunited in Seoul and Pyongyang. [Source]
OctKim Dae-jung was named the first Korean recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. [Source]
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Around the world
MarVladimir Putin won the Russian presidential election. [Source]
Songs, shows & trends
Film
Park Chan-wook – “Joint Security Area” — A story of friendship between soldiers from both Koreas at Panmunjom, a hit with critics and audiences alike. [Source]
TV drama
KBS – “Autumn in My Heart” — Starring Song Seung-heon, Song Hye-kyo and Won Bin, it became popular across Asia. [Source]
Music
BoA debuts with “ID; Peace B” — She debuted at 13 and went on to major success in Japan. [Source]
Sports
Joint Korean march at the Sydney Olympics — Athletes from both Koreas marched together under the Korean Unification Flag at the opening ceremony. [Source]
Year League: the best year
Sources
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