Spreading heritage in the digital space.

From ancient village communal houses and temples to museum artifacts, an increasing number of Vietnamese cultural heritage sites are being brought to the digital stage through 3D technology, virtual reality, and online museums.

Young people are experiencing the digital map application "red addresses".

Digitalization not only expands access opportunities for the public, especially young people, but also contributes to preserving and promoting heritage values ​​in the era of globalization. However, for heritage to truly thrive and be sustainable in the digital space, many challenges regarding resources, technology, and innovative approaches still need to be addressed.

Opportunities from digital technology

In fact, many Vietnamese cultural heritage sites have found new life thanks to technology. With just a few clicks, users can virtually tour the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, explore the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, or listen to Hue royal court music on online platforms. Digitizing data helps heritage transcend spatial and temporal limitations, providing audiences both domestically and internationally with rich experiences.

Beyond mere display, 3D technology, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) allow viewers to interact and learn in detail about each artifact and structure. This contributes to making heritage sites more "lively" and accessible to younger generations who are accustomed to the digital environment.

However, the path to bringing heritage into the digital space is not without obstacles. The first problem is resources. Digitizing an artifact, an architectural work, or a collection requires significant costs, a highly specialized technical team, and modern technological infrastructure. Many local cultural agencies still face difficulties in implementation. Furthermore, digitization is only the first step. Managing and storing data securely and sustainably, as well as protecting intellectual property rights for digitized products, presents another challenge. In the age of information explosion, the risk of loss, copying, or misuse is ever-present.

In particular, the digitization of heritage cannot be separated from its original value. If only the form is focused on while neglecting cultural depth, heritage will easily be transformed into a purely "entertainment product," losing its sacredness and inherent historical significance.

Long-term strategic planning

Many countries have taken the lead in this endeavor. Japan has developed an open database of cultural heritage for everyone to access, while also incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to automate classification and searching. South Korea has integrated heritage into online educational applications and films and music , creating widespread dissemination. These experiences demonstrate that technology is merely a tool; what matters is creative exploitation and a long-term strategy.

In Vietnam, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has implemented numerous digitization projects, particularly for UNESCO-recognized heritage sites. Several major museums have also developed online virtual tour versions, allowing the public to access artifacts without having to visit in person. Young artists are also beginning to leverage digital platforms to incorporate heritage into their creative products – from music and fashion to performance art.

Associate Professor Dr. Do Van Tru, Chairman of the Vietnam Heritage Association, stated: “The digitization of heritage needs to be viewed as a national strategy, with coordination between the State, the community, and technology businesses. Only when a sustainable ecosystem is created will heritage truly ‘live’ in contemporary life.”

Furthermore, linking digital heritage with creative cultural products – such as games, films, and educational applications – will be a potential approach for the younger generation to access them more naturally, proactively, and enthusiastically.

“It can be said that heritage in the digital space is a combination of tradition and modernity. Technology opens up opportunities for heritage to transcend geographical boundaries and reach many segments of the public. But above all, the core value of heritage still lies in the cultural, historical, and national identity story. In the age of globalization, bringing heritage to the digital space is not only a way to preserve it, but also a way to affirm the image of the nation on the world cultural map. If we know how to utilize technology and nurture community awareness, Vietnamese heritage will not only be preserved, but will also shine brightly in the digital space – as a vibrant part of the nation's memory and soul,” Mr. Tru emphasized.

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Source: https://baolaocai.vn/lan-toa-di-san-tren-khong-gian-so-post882368.html