K-wave AI News

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea.

Here's our top story.

The National Heritage Disaster Crisis Level has been raised to "serious" as massive wildfires in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province rage on for a fifth consecutive day.

This marks the first time Korea has issued the highest-level alert.

The National Heritage Service warns that the risk of damage to cultural heritage sites in Uiseong, Andong, and other parts of the province remains high, with strong winds continuing to drive the fire eastward.

The historic Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, a thousand-year-old Buddhist site, has been destroyed by wildfires, with its Gaunru Pavilion and Yeonsujeon Hall reduced to ashes.

The two national treasures were charred beyond recognition.

Manhyujeong Pavilion in Andong, widely known as a filming location for the K-drama Mr. Sunshine, has escaped major damage.

Authorities remain on high alert as the wildfires continue spreading east, with thick smoke detected around Andong's traditional Hahoe Village and Byeongsanseowon, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

While no direct fire damage has been reported in these areas, additional personnel and firefighting equipment have been deployed to prevent potential losses.

The Heo Jun Museum is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a special exhibition titled "Joseon's Doctors: Practicing Benevolence."

The exhibit highlights the stories of "yu-ui" —Confucian scholars who also served as physicians— and royal court doctors of the era who embodied the Confucian virtue of benevolence and altruism through their practice of medicine.

Over 100 artifacts showcasing Joseon-era medical traditions are on display.

Founded in 2005 and located in Seoul's Gangseo-gu District, the Heo Jun Museum is dedicated to honoring Heo Jun's legacy and promoting the global recognition of traditional Korean medicine.

The exhibition runs until September 7.

That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.