The Korea Heritage Service and the Korea Heritage Agency inaugurated the 2024 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign with a unique performance titled “Korea On Stage” at Heungnyemun Square in Gyeongbokgung Palace on May 21.
Initiated in 2020, the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and significance of Korea’s national heritage. This year marks a significant shift to a new national heritage system, enhancing the campaign by providing broader opportunities for both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in Korea’s extensive cultural heritage. A variety of programs will be launched, making use of heritage sites throughout the nation.
Cho Boah Named Campaign Ambassador for Korean Heritage
Renowned actress Cho Boah has been named the campaign ambassador for promoting Korean heritage. In her role, she will feature in a video showcasing the majestic Changdeokgung Palace, a highlight of the “Royalty Road” within the “Korean Heritage Route.” The campaign also kicked off its activities with the second group of supporters, who were selected on May 10. This group of 30 individuals will promote the allure of Korea’s national heritage sites through initiatives like the Korean Heritage Route and the Korean Heritage Passport Tour.
2024 Korea On Stage: A Dazzling Showcase
The inaugural event of the 2024 campaign, Korea On Stage, was celebrated on May 21 at Heungnyemun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace. Since its inception in 2020, Korea On Stage has highlighted Korea’s cultural splendor through performances by top Korean talents at various historic locations, such as Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and Gyeongbokgung Palace, and internationally in London in 2023. This year’s event was hosted by NewJeans’ Danielle and featured performances from notable artists and groups like NewJeans, Fromis 9, and DEEP N DAP, among others.
Expansion of “Heritage Route” Programs
The Korean Heritage Route is expanding to include diverse programs. The Gwandong Pungryu Era Route, which ran from May 10 to 19, offered unique experiences such as the Gwandong Pungryu Train and a moonlit visit to Seongyojang House. Upcoming in June, the Korean Temple Monasteries Route will introduce “Finding Myself at the Temple” at Tongdosa Temple. In October, international visitors can enjoy a special morning walk at Changdeokgung Palace. Additionally, a call for innovative tourism products centered around national heritage sites has been launched, with plans to fund and support up to nine tour packages.
Enhanced Korean Heritage Passport Tour
The Korean Heritage Passport Tour has been revitalized to include ten scenic routes featuring Korea’s traditional beauty and historical landmarks. The tour now offers improved visitor information and rewards like mini tumblers and small bags for collecting stamps at each site. The redesigned passport is available at the Korean Heritage Tourist Center at Incheon International Airport and the campaign’s official website. A limited edition featuring “Barabapa” characters by artist Hong Won-pyo will be gifted to the first 2,000 participants.