발해 상경성의 세계유산 등재 전망 및 제언

Abstract

This paper is to review the current situation of World Heritage of China and to prospect the possibility of inscription of the Balhae Sang-gyeong cast lreelics in China on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Given the value of the Sang-gyeong castle, it is highly possible that it will be inscribed on the World Heritage List. Balhae relics, including the Sang-gyeong castle site, are not on the World Heritage Tentative List of China for now. However, given the fact that China has strengthened the inscription of the heritage relating to minor ethnic groups in China. it is possible that China will nominate Balhae relics to the World Heritage List according to the political situation. It is particularly concerning that China has recently been carrying out the overall restoration work of the Sang-gyeong castle after completing a large scale excavation of the site. However, since China has the most Balhae relics of any of its neighboring countries, it seems unlikely that China will hurry the nomination of Sang-gyeong castle rcesli on the List. Historical and diplomatic conflict is foreseen among countries concerned if China submits the nomination of Sang-gyeong castle for the World Heritage List. In order to cope with this, the revision of the current World Heritage system should be carried out. Assistance for excavation and research of Balhae of North Korea could also be considered. A joint network for discussion and research on historical issues of East Asia, comprised scholars from various continents, is necessary. Moreover, it is important to be reminded that the fundamental goal of World Heritage programme is to contribute to the international cooperation for research and conservation of the property rather than cause emotional confrontation and disputes over the inscriptions.