What is registered cultural heritage?

• Only a small number of modern cultural properties are preserved and protected in the present day, and most of them are in danger of falling into ruin due to changes in society and lifestyle, technological advancements and economic efficiency. So, the Cultural Heritage Registration System has been implemented since July 1st, 2001 to protect and preserve such endangered cultural properties. Unlike the existing designation system based on the approval from the state and local governments, this registration system depends on the self-initiated preservation effort and provides instructions, advice and recommendations when the property holder reports a change in the state of his/her asset.
• Registered cultural heritage can be protected and utilized at the same time because they are allowed to be under interior renovation without substantial changes in their exterior according to their usage purpose or condition. If 50 years has passed since their construction and they meet the following standards, non-designated architectural structures or facilities can be registered as cultural heritage.

• Constructions that are regarded as an important part of our modern history or possess a significant symbolic value
• Constructions that provide a historical and cultural backdrop of a region, and whose value is widely known to the public
• Constructions that are regarded as exemplary architecture of an era
• Constructions that show outstanding architectural skills, and whose design and materials are rare enough to maximize their academic and artistic value
• Constructions that have special significance in the architectural history of Korea 

• Even non-designated architectural structures or facilities less than 50 years old can be registered as cultural heritage, provided they meet the above-mentioned standards and need urgent protective measures.