S. Korea celebrates return of ancient Korean books from Japan

South Korea on Tuesday celebrated the return of hundreds of centuries-old Korean royal books from Japan with a procession and traditional ceremonies.The celebration came after 1,200 ancient books stolen by Japan during its 1910-45 colonial rule over the Korean Peninsula arrived in the country early this month. The books include a collection of documents known as "Uigwe," which records and illustrates royal protocols used during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The texts describe the procedures and formalities used to conduct weddings, funerals, banquets and other royal events.The books had been kept by the Japanese Imperial Household Agency.