Built in 1900, Ganghwa Anglican Church is the oldest surviving hanok church in the country. (Image provided by Gangwha county)
INCHEON, May 18 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea’s oldest existing hanok-style church will soon become the centerpiece of a new media art attraction that merges cutting-edge digital technology with cultural heritage, the local government announced Sunday.
According to Incheon’s Ganghwa County, a 1.34 billion-won ($980,000) project is underway to create an immersive media art space by October 2025 near Ganghwa Anglican Church, a designated national heritage site, and the adjacent Yongheung Palace Park, the former residence of King Cheoljong before he ascended the Joseon throne.
Using projection mapping, lighting, and laser technology, the project will feature night-time digital art installations inspired by the site’s historical and architectural significance. Ganghwa officials aim to transform the area into a story-rich, immersive night tourism destination, boosting foot traffic, revitalizing the old downtown area, and supporting local businesses.
Built in 1900, Ganghwa Anglican Church is the oldest surviving hanok church in the country. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Built in 1900, Ganghwa Anglican Church is the oldest surviving hanok church in the country. Though it follows the spatial layout of a Western basilica, it incorporates traditional Korean wooden construction and a tiled roof—an architectural fusion that symbolizes East-West harmony.
Yongheung Palace, now a public park, further anchors the historical narrative. The final installation is expected to begin trial operations in September, with a formal lighting ceremony scheduled for October.
“We aim to create a new cultural landmark by integrating national heritage with advanced media technology,” a Ganghwa County official said, adding that the nighttime displays will be designed to minimize disruptions to nearby residents.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
