World Heritage Convention and Cultural Heritage ODA Project

Purpose: This study examines the current status of cultural heritage ODA projects in World Heritage Sites, which have been increasing steadily in recent years, and seeks a balanced project direction between the World Heritage Convention and Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects. Originality: As a new field, mutual synergy can be achieved by reflecting the principles and direction of the World Heritage Convention in ODA projects for the rational and sustainable operation of cultural heritage ODA projects in World Heritage Sites. Methodology: The concepts of cultural ODA, cultural heritage ODA, and cultural heritage ODA for World Heritage were defined, and the purpose and content of ODA for World Heritage were analysed and compared with the principles of the World Heritage Convention and its operation. As a result, we derived ways to strategically reflect the contents of the World Heritage Convention in order to select valid targets, design rational projects, and establish an effective evaluation system. Result: The cultural heritage ODA projects of the Republic of Korea relatively faithfully reflect the basic spirit of the World Heritage Convention, but in the selection and evaluation system of project targets, it is necessary to strategically integrate and utilize the standards of official development assistance and the contents of the World Heritage Convention. Conclusion and Implication: In order for cultural heritage ODA projects to be more successful, it is time to redefine the concept and direction of cultural heritage ODA projects and lay a policy foundation that meets international standards.