Korea National University of Cultural Heritage Hosts 'K-Heritage Day' for Ambassadors on May 2nd

 - Promoting Korean Heritage to Ambassadors at Dondeokjeon Hall in Deoksugung Palace, a Historic Diplomatic Venue from the Daehan Empire Era-

Established by the Cultural Heritage Administration, Korea National University of Cultural Heritage, under the leadership of President Kyung-Hwan Kang is set to host "K-Heritage Day" on May 2nd from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Dondeokjeon and Seokjojeon Halls in Deoksugung Palace, one of the five major palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. This event marks the first of three non-degree courses in the "K-Heritage Leadership Program", tailored for foreign ambassadors during the K-Royal Culture Festival.

Korea National University of Cultural Heritage, a specialized institution focusing on heritage studies, has developed these educational programs targeting foreigners residing in Korea, who often have limited opportunities to systematically learn and experience Korean heritage. Initiated with a pilot lecture on November 1, 2023, which was attended by 46 individuals from 15 countries including ambassadors and delegates from embassies in Korea, featuring special lectures on Korean heritage and conducting surveys. In 2024, based on the research and outcomes of last year's efforts, the university introduced a structured three-course non-degree program in K-Heritage, with "K-Heritage Day" being the first and specifically designed for ambassadors in Korea.

The event is expected to be attended by 9 ambassadors and their spouses. It will commence with opening remarks by President Kang and a congratulatory speech by Bae-Yong Lee, chairperson of the National Education Commission. This will be followed by a keynote lecture by Chair Professor Kyung Rip Park, titled "A Glance at History, Culture, and K-Heritage” linked with a program “Seokjojeon Night” on the narratives of the Daehan Empire's royal family as part of the K-Royal Culture Festival.

This session, held at Dondeokjeon Hall—a site historically used for diplomatic meetings and banquets as the Daehan Empire strove to modernize—aims to inform the ambassadors about Korean heritage and history, aligning with the site’s historical significance and the program's objectives. An official from the Korea National University of Cultural Heritage noted that the program was developed in response to growing international interest in K-pop and K-culture, and the need for systematic, high-quality, and sustainable heritage education targeted at foreigners. The support and collaboration of the international ambassadors and Korean governmental bodies are crucial for designing a unique and sustainable future heritage education system globally, as emphasized by Chairperson Bae-Yong Lee’s participant, who will be present to endorse the start of the K-Heritage non-degree course.

Ambassadors from Cambodia, Greece, Italy, Laos, Mexico, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Zambia, along with their spouses, are slated to attend this prestigious event.

The K-Heritage non-degree program comprises three tailored courses: 1) "K-Heritage Day,” a one-day cultural event for ambassadors; 2) "K-Heritage Summer School,” a three-week term for international students; 3) and the "K-Heritage Leadership Program,” designed for global cultural leaders interested in Korean heritage and education.