South Korea is celebrating the tenth anniversary of its royal tombs from the Joseon Dynasty being recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Kan Hyeong-woo reports.

Collecting stamps to learn about the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty's 500-year-long history and receive small gifts.

This is one of the programs the Cultural Heritage Foundation has put together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the royal tombs being designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

"This is called the 'King's Way'. The path was used for the royal ancestral ceremony by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can walk along the path and experience how the Joseon royalty used to honor their ancestors."

The government has prepared several events, such as a special photo exhibition, commemorative ceremony and scholarly forum.
But it's looking to attract the public with more hands-on activities.

"From this point on, we will focus on organizing more hands-on and enjoyable programs and events for the public so that people can feel closer to the cultural heritage of the royal tombs."

South Korea has been focusing on restoring and preserving the royal tombs of the Joseon Dynasty... since they were designated as UNESCO world cultural heritage sites in June 2009 for their historical value, cultural importance and scenic beauty.

"The pine trees over at the Gangneung Royal Tomb are quite amazing. But I feel like not many people know about it. So I wish more people would come to see the sites and enjoy the nature here."

"It's really peaceful. I'm here to just to kind of see what it's about and the history behind it. It's really pretty as well with all the nature and the architecture."

All 40 of the royal Joseon tombs will be open to the public for free on June 30th, the last day of the celebration period.
Kan Hyeong-woo, Arirang News