Knowledge graph-driven digital preservation of intangible cultural heritage: a cross-cultural comparative study of Chinese and Western implementation paradigms

The digital preservation of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) has become a vital strategy for sustaining cultural diversity in the face of globalization and digital transformation. This study employs bibliometric analysis and CiteSpace visualization tools to examine 798 research articles from the Web of Science (WoS) and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases (2006–2024). It provides a systematic comparative analysis of methodologies and paradigms in ICH digitization across Chinese and Western academic discourses. The findings reveal distinct conceptual orientations: Western research tends to be technology-centric, emphasizing virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and blockchain for heritage data modeling, digital archiving, and virtual exhibitions. In contrast, Chinese research adopts a culture–technology symbiosis approach, focusing on digital storytelling, with an emphasis on tourism-integrated innovation, community participation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. A temporal analysis highlights digital twins and artificial intelligence (AI) as emerging transformative forces shaping global ICH preservation, integrating technological advancements with cultural imperatives. To address existing gaps, this study proposes a technology–culture–community synergy framework, fostering a holistic and inclusive approach to ICH digitization. By bridging technological rationality with humanistic values, this study contributes to comparative ICH digitization discourse and provides practical guidance for building inclusive digital ecosystems. Ultimately, it contributes to global heritage discourse by redefining digital technology not only as a preservation tool but also as a driver of cultural innovation, offering a strategic roadmap for balancing technological advancement with the ontological integrity of intangible heritage.