This is the first part of the four-part paper describing the development of a packet-switched computer network named the KORNET In this paper, we present the overview of the KORNET, and discuss various aspects on the development of the netwo management center (NMC). The NMC acts as a nerve center of the network, performing such functions as network monitoring, subscriber and network management and routing manage-ment using operator dialogues. In the implementation of the NMC, we have developed various application softwares that include operator interface, primary/srcondary pan, session layer and packet level adaptor. As for packet, link and physical level protocols, we have modified the XODIAC X.25 originally developed by Data General, Inc. All the net-work protocols we have developed comply completely with the CCITT recommendations.