Discovering the Hidden Gems: My Experience at Korea National University of Cultural Heritage
When traveling to the majestic country of South Korea, most tourists may flock to the bustling city of Seoul or visit famous landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace. However, what many visitors may not know is that South Korea offers a wealth of cultural experiences that are off the beaten path. One such example is the Korea National University of Cultural Heritage (KNUCH). As a visitor of KNUCH, I had the privilege of discovering the hidden gems of South Korea and immersing myself in its rich cultural history.
Introduction to Korea National University of Cultural Heritage
Established in 2011, KNUCH is a national university dedicated to promoting Korean cultural heritage. The university is located in Buyeo County, South Chungcheong Province, and its campus is situated near popular cultural sites such as the Busosanseong Fortress, the Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Museum, and the Baekje Cultural Land. What makes KNUCH truly unique is its focus on preserving traditional Korean culture and crafts by offering courses such as conservation science, traditional arts, and a master’s degree program in cultural heritage conservation.
Exploring the Campus and Cultural Sites
As a visitor to KNUCH, I was astounded by the beauty of the campus. Walking through the grounds, it was evident that KNUCH had a deep reverence for traditional Korean architecture, as many of the buildings were designed in the style of the Joseon Dynasty. One of the standout buildings was the Baekje Hall, which showcased many artifacts from the Baekje period, a dynasty which ruled the Korean peninsula from 18 BCE to 660 CE.
Aside from the campus, KNUCH is situated near several cultural sites that offer visitors a glimpse into Korea’s cultural history. The Busosanseong Fortress, for instance, is a well-preserved fortification that was built in the late 3rd century. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Additionally, the Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Museum hosts a vast collection of artifacts from the Baekje period, including pottery, jewelry, and weaponry.
Learning Traditional Korean Crafts
One of the highlights of my visit to KNUCH was the opportunity to learn traditional Korean crafts. KNUCH offers courses in various crafts, ranging from paper-making to metalwork. I chose to take a course on Korean pottery, and it was a truly enriching experience.
The course took place in a small pottery studio on campus, and our instructor was a master potter who had been practicing his craft for over thirty years. He taught us various techniques, such as how to shape clay on a pottery wheel and how to fire ceramics in a traditional wood-fired kiln. By the end of the course, I had made several pieces of pottery that I was proud to bring back as souvenirs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my visit to the Korea National University of Cultural Heritage was a truly remarkable experience that enriched my understanding of Korean culture. From exploring the campus to learning traditional crafts, KNUCH offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Korea’s rich cultural history. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, I highly recommend making a stop at KNUCH and discovering the hidden gems of this magnificent country.
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