Priorities Include Supporting Cultural Heritage Startups and Promoting Digitization for Broader Public Engagement

Courtesy of Cultural Heritage Administration

The Cultural Heritage Administration announced plans on Thursday to implement concrete measures aimed at fostering economic growth and digitizing the utilization and promotion of cultural assets. This initiative precedes the enactment of a new law on heritage management.

Key objectives outlined by the culture agency include the promotion of cultural heritage-related startups and incentivizing increased visits to cultural sites by the general public. The agency emphasized legislative support to facilitate these goals. 

▲ Courtesy of Cultural Heritage AdministrationAnother focal point is the digitization of the utilization of cultural assets through the creation of a platform, providing broader access to the promotion of cultural heritage. Additionally, proposals for enhanced management of cultural heritage will be floated.

The agency expressed a commitment to promoting a wider appreciation of cultural heritage among diverse demographics, including individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those from multicultural backgrounds. Increased public education about the role cultural heritage plays in fostering community bonds is also part of the agenda.

These initiatives are in anticipation of a new law set to take effect in May of the following year, which will bring about significant changes in how the country manages cultural assets. The terminology will shift from "cultural properties" to "cultural heritage," reflecting a broader conceptualization of culture.

The agency clarified that the term "heritage" conveys a sense of continuity, a departure from the term "properties" that may not imply lasting qualities. The new law is considered a starting point for upcoming changes, according to an agency official.

Furthermore, the agency outlined support for efforts to repatriate Korean cultural assets dispersed globally. It also expressed plans to send "civilian experts" abroad to enhance the country's global standing by promoting Korean cultural heritage.

A formal ceremony is scheduled for Friday to unveil the new vision for cultural heritage, with the participation of Cultural Heritage Administration officials, lawmakers from the culture committee, and cultural experts.

Sayart

Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com