Korea National University of Heritage (President: Kang Kyung-hwan), under the Korea Heritage Service, successfully completed the summer semester program “Global Field Study on cultural Heritage” for 10 days and 9 nights, from June 30 to July 10.
This program was designed as an overseas field research initiative led by professor, focusing on on-site investigation and research. It aims to provide student with firsthand experience of cultural heritage sites abroad, helping them understand the practical aspects of heritage management and preservation, and laying the foundation for their growth as global cultural heritage professionals.
This year, under the guidance of a professor from the Department of Archaeology and in cooperation with the A.Kh. Margulan Institute of Archaeology, a total of 12 students visited various locations in Kazakhstan, including Astana, Karaganda, Aksu-Ayuly, Balkhash, Konaev, and Almaty.
Through the field study, students had the opportunity to reflect on and compare how Korea and Kazakhstan preserve and utilize their cultural heritage. One student noted, “Rather than excessive reconstruction for tourism purposes, the approach of minimally restoring sites—just enough to recognize their original form while preserving local context and leaving room for imagination—was very impressive.” On the other hand, some students expressed regret, stating, “The interior restoration of the Kurgan did not accurately reflect the original materials or grave goods found during excavation.”
Students were also surprised to discover elements at Kazakh heritage sites that resembled those in Korea. They agreed that the experience provided a valuable opportunity to directly compare the cultural heritage of the two countries. One student remarked that such comparisons “can serve as a guideline for reexamining our own heritage in a global historical context and for finding a better balance between preservation and practical use.”
Regarding the overall experience, students shared that, unlike studying from books or lectures, the program gave them the opportunity to “see, walk, and experience cultural sites in person,” allowing them to encounter “the vivid expressions of local culture” and to “deeply feel the context and value of cultural heritage.” They also expressed that the program helped them realize that “cultural heritage is not merely a relic of the past, but something we must protect in the present as a part of our future,” and that they now feel “a stronger sense of responsibility for its preservation and proper use.”