The Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) is a South Korean government agency dedicated to the preservation, management, and promotion of the nation’s cultural heritage. Operating under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the CHA plays a pivotal role in safeguarding both tangible and intangible cultural assets, ensuring their transmission to future generations.
Key Responsibilities:
• Preservation and Management: The CHA oversees the conservation of cultural properties, including historical sites, artifacts, and intangible cultural practices. This involves restoration projects, maintenance of heritage sites, and implementation of protective measures.
• Designation of Cultural Properties: The agency classifies and designates significant cultural assets as National Treasures, Important Intangible Cultural Properties, and other categories, providing them with legal protection and support.
• Promotion and Education: The CHA engages in activities to raise public awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events.
• International Cooperation: The administration collaborates with international organizations, such as UNESCO, to promote and protect cultural heritage globally. This includes efforts to inscribe Korean heritage sites and practices on UNESCO’s World Heritage lists.
Historical Background
Established in 1961 as the Cultural Properties Administration, the agency was restructured and renamed the Cultural Heritage Administration in 1999 to enhance its functions and effectiveness. Over the years, the CHA has been instrumental in major restoration projects, policy developments, and international cultural heritage initiatives.
Notable Initiatives
• Royal Palaces and Tombs Management: The CHA manages and preserves royal palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, as well as royal tombs, ensuring their historical integrity and accessibility to the public.
• Intangible Cultural Heritage Safeguarding: The administration identifies and supports practitioners of traditional arts, crafts, and performances, recognizing them as Important Intangible Cultural Properties.
• Digital Heritage Projects: Embracing technology, the CHA has developed digital archives and virtual tours to make cultural heritage more accessible, especially to younger generations and international audiences.