Korean Studies Institute declares ‘Future Vision 2040’ on 30th anniversary

The Korean Studies Institute (KSI) celebrated its 30th anniversary at the Andong International Convention Center by declaring its ‘Future Vision 2040’ plan. The event, which included the opening of the ‘2026 Korea National Studies Grand Festival,’ was attended by approximately 1,000 people, including Gyeongsangbuk-do Governor Lee Cheol-woo and various cultural officials.

Since its establishment in 1996, the KSI has focused on collecting, preserving, and researching private traditional records. As of July 2026, the institute holds approximately 690,000 items, including 217,000 ancient books, 395,000 old documents, and 67,000 woodblocks. Its collection includes 71,000 designated cultural assets, such as the UNESCO Memory of the World ‘Korean Confucian Woodblocks’ and the national treasure ‘Jingbirok.’

Moving forward, Gyeongsangbuk-do aims to globalize traditional culture by seeking UNESCO Asia-Pacific Memory of the World registration for culinary texts like ‘Suunjapbang’ and ‘Eumsik Dimibang,’ as well as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status for traditional Hanji paper. The festival continues through the 31st, featuring exhibitions of 182 Korean plaques and various digital media and traditional culture experience programs.