Koryo Fresco Wall Paintings.

Koryo Fresco Wall Paintings are valued for their history and their reflection of ancient culture. Some reflect old Korean myths, including the pre-Koryo Dynasty’s story of the rabbit and the turtle. There has been some competition between China and North Korea about the inclusion of their region’s wall paintings in the World Cultural Heritage list by UNESCO. In fact China is known to have lobbied strongly to prevent North Korea’s wall paintings from being listed by UNESCO.

But there are concerns about preservation of these valuable historic sites. In fact, Arian Perang who is with the Philadelphia Museum in the United States and involved in the selection of the World Cultural Heritage sites said, “Currently in North Korea, there are no systematic observation methods, no research on an appropriate process or implementation programs for preservation of wall paintings sites.” He added that international experts would step in to prevent further deterioration of wall paintings in tombs in North Korea, by strengthening the function of cultural preservation labs, agencies and other similar organizations in North Korea.

Historic relics and sites should be valued not just for their economic worth but because they are priceless cultural assets that reflect Korea’s unique art and history and are representative of Korean culture for generations to come. Even though it might be too late to save many artifacts, we have to hope that the North Korean government will consider the issue of preservation seriously and deal with it actively.

The cultural heritage of every country is an invaluable asset which cannot be sold or bought. Descendants have the responsibility to preserve it with honor and respect. Officials in charge of cultural heritage preservation should feel proud of their jobs and should make their utmost efforts to promote the exchange of cultural assets around the globe.