Seoul’s Historical Temples to Receive Grants for Restoration

The South Korean government has announced a new initiative aimed at restoring and preserving the country’s historical temples, allocating a budget of 30 billion KRW (approximately $23 million USD) for the project. This initiative is part of a broader cultural preservation campaign that seeks to safeguard Korea’s rich heritage. National Cultural Heritage Director, Kim Soo-yeon, stated during the launch event, “Our historical sites are not just remnants of our past; they are vital to our identity and future. We are committed to their preservation for generations to come.” The funding will specifically target temples listed as national treasures and cultural properties, with plans to begin the restoration work as early as March 2025. In addition to the restoration efforts, educational programs will be developed to promote the importance of these sites among younger generations. The initiative has been well received by both local communities and cultural preservation advocates, with Lee Min-jun, a spokesperson for the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation, commenting, “This investment is a testament to our commitment to honor our history while enriching our present.”