Reconstructing memory through adaptive heritage: a comparative analysis of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung in UNESCO discourse

A comparative analysis of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces reveals that Gyeongbokgung, despite its exclusion from UNESCO World Heritage recognition due to reconstruction, embodies adaptive heritage principles by reflecting Korea’s postcolonial transformations and evolving national identity. The study challenges conventional heritage frameworks rooted in the Authorized Heritage Discourse (AHD), emphasizing symbolic reappropriation and historical rupture. Using a case analysis and text mining of over 90,000 news articles, the research highlights Gyeongbokgung’s cultural and interpretive potential as adaptive heritage, advocating for more inclusive and context-sensitive approaches to World Heritage evaluation in East Asia.

Youn, H. C., & Bae, J. (2025). Reconstructing memory through adaptive heritage: a comparative analysis of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung in UNESCO discourse. Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/13467581.2025.2542303