Heritage · UNESCO World Heritage

What Is UNESCO World Heritage?

UNESCO World Heritage recognizes places and traditions of Outstanding Universal Value that belong to everyone and that we all share the responsibility to protect.

What is UNESCO World Heritage infographic — about UNESCO, the World Heritage Convention, three categories of World Heritage and Korea's UNESCO numbers
01 — Overview

Quick Summary

Key takeaways

  • UNESCO World Heritage recognizes Korea's most valuable cultural and natural treasures while helping preserve them for future generations.
02 — Full Guide

The Complete Guide

UNESCO World Heritage is an international program established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to identify and protect places of exceptional cultural or natural importance.

Sites are selected because they possess Outstanding Universal Value, meaning they are considered significant not only for one nation but for all humanity.

South Korea has earned international recognition through a growing number of UNESCO World Heritage properties, as well as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage traditions that continue to thrive today.

These designations demonstrate Korea's commitment to preserving its historic monuments, traditional culture, and natural environments for future generations.

UNESCO Categories

Cultural Heritage

Historic buildings, archaeological sites, palaces, temples, villages, and monuments.

Natural Heritage

Outstanding natural landscapes, geological formations, and protected ecosystems.

Intangible Cultural Heritage

Living traditions including music, festivals, craftsmanship, rituals, and traditional knowledge.

Highlights

International recognition
Historic preservation
Cultural significance
Natural conservation
Living traditions
Educational value
Global importance
Sustainable tourism
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