VANK (Voluntary Agency Network of Korea) has launched a campaign to preserve and promote the diverse intangible cultural heritage of the Asia-Pacific region. This area, home to traditions like Korea’s Kimjang, India’s Yoga, Mongolia’s Khoomei, and New Zealand’s Haka, represents the world’s largest cultural diversity. However, urbanization, industrialization, and global pop culture have accelerated the decline of traditional practices. With the motif of placing “K” (Korea) between “A” (Asia) and “P” (Pacific), VANK aims to position Korea as a cultural bridge and a hub for regional heritage diplomacy.
VANK Director Park Ki-tae emphasized that intangible heritage is a key asset for sustainable development and peace, with its protection and transmission serving as the foundation for international cooperation. The campaign poster, “Sea of Memory: Connecting Myself to the Asia-Pacific,” symbolizes the collective memories and traditions of the region, urging people to preserve and remember them before they vanish.
As part of the campaign, VANK will release card news and collaborate with UNESCO ICHCAP to launch the “Global Intangible Cultural Heritage Ambassador Program.” This initiative encourages youth around the world to rediscover their local intangible heritage and share it with global audiences. Applications are open until May 11. Through these efforts, VANK aims to strengthen cultural solidarity and raise global awareness of the value of intangible heritage across Asia and the Pacific.