Meet the guardians of Korea's cultural legacy

Preserving works of art may be considered equally as important as the task of creating them and here in Korea there is a special team of skilled technicians who seek to ensure that our cultural treasures big and small stand the test of time.

Our correspondent Song Yoo-jin reports.

At a glance, these two paintings may seem identical.

But look closer, and you'll start to spot differences.

The one on the left has stains, areas where paint has peeled or faded; imperfections that are absent in the one on the right.

This transformation is the work of future 'national heritage maintenance technicians.'

National heritage maintenance technicians are certified professionals responsible for preserving Korea's cultural treasures, from paintings to historic buildings, as close to their original state as possible.

"Every year, the Heritage Education Institute offers a training program to nurture experts in the conservation, repair, and restoration of national heritage. Here at the Insa Art Center in Seoul, the works by graduates of last year's program are on display."

Since these students are not yet licensed, they have recreated existing pieces to showcase their craftsmanship.

One such piece is this Joseon Dynasty-style checkerboard, crafted with a turtle shell top and a tiger design made from ox horn.

And this is the original housed at the National Folk Museum of Korea.

"I first crafted the wooden base, then applied hemp cloth, layered lacquer, and added decorative elements. What I loved most about this program was collaborating across different fields. This piece, for example, includes mineral pigments used in the dancheong traditional paintwork."

The exhibition features 1-hundred-1 student works.

Students can choose from 15 courses in the program, including lacquering, woodworking, paintwork and imitation.

"We started with 40 students in 2012, and now have over 1-hundred-20 graduates each year. I can feel the growing public interest, which I think is due to more people recognizing the importance of cultural heritage."

The steady rise in technicians reflects this growing awareness, with over 13-thousand now working in the field.

Although they're called technicians they are, in fact, artists in their own right.

"Restoring heritage requires highly specialized skills, using the same techniques as in the past.

In this sense, these experts play a central role in preserving and protecting our cultural heritage."

Though these technicians often work behind the spotlight, their hands keep history alive, preserving its timeless beauty.

A craft rarely acknowledged, but absolutely essential.

"I think preserving traditional crafts is key to protecting our national identity and history. That's why we need experts who safeguard not just the artistic value of artifacts, but also their cultural and historical significance. I really hope to be part of that work."

They're the guardians of Korea's national heritage, ensuring that its beauty endures for generations to come.

Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.