A Study on the Cultural Content Value and Future Direction of National Branding through the Gwanghwamun Woldae Restoration Ceremony

초록

Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and its Woldae platform historically symbolized royal authority and communication between the king and the people. However, they were repeatedly damaged during the Imjin War, Japanese colonial period, and Korean War, resulting in the loss of their symbolic and cultural significance. In 2023, the restoration of the Woldae and signboard was completed, followed by a commemorative ceremony titled “New Path Opening of Gwanghwamun Woldae.” This study aims to analyze the process through which historical heritage is transformed into cultural content and to examine its cultural content value and implications for national branding. A qualitative case study method was applied, including historical literature review, case analysis, and spatial and program analysis of the restoration ceremony. The results show that the ceremony reinterpreted historical heritage as experiential cultural content by integrating space, performance, media, and storytelling. It also contributed to strengthening national identity and enhancing Korea’s national brand image. This study demonstrates that heritage-based cultural content can function as a strategic asset for national branding and future cultural development.

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