International Cooperation between Korea and Cambodia to Conserve and Manage Angkor Stone Heritage using Non-destructive Technology

Abstract

ABSTRACT The stone team of the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage (NRICH) in Korea implemented a technology transfer project 2016 − 2020 to manage heritage monuments during the Angkor period in Cambodia. This saw staff from both countries’ conservation organisations participating in training, education, and joint research, and making joint academic presentations on technology transfer. The research subjects included statues recovered from the Don Tei and Phnom Bei Temple located near Angkor Thom; the Nokorbachey Temple in Kampong Cham Province, the southern stronghold; and the Banteay Chhmar in Banteay Meanchey Province, a central transportation point in the northwest. Non-destructive technology from Korea was used to investigate the condition of the Angkor ruins, evaluating the suitability of the approach and modifying it as appropriate, and training was conducted to improve the participants’ problem-solving and technology application abilities. This exchange project and the data it generated demonstrate the benefits of continuing this approach to develop the conservation skills and problem-solving abilities of managers of Angkor ruins, and ultimately contribute to the preservation of Asian cultural heritage.