AI meets heritage to transform tourism experience in Seoul

In a serene temple courtyard nestled within Seoul's bustling streets, foreign tourists seeking to partake in temple stay programs, meditation, and traditional Eastern medicine therapies may soon encounter a surprising aid: generative artificial intelligence (AI). The Seoul Metropolitan Government has unveiled a novel initiative aimed at modernizing the city's most historic cultural landmarks.

On Tuesday, the government announced that three tech startups have been chosen to integrate advanced AI technology, location-based audio guides, and automated booking systems with the heritage sites dedicated to Korean wellness and Buddhist traditions.

This government-backed project addresses one of the major challenges faced by foreign tourists eager to explore Korea's cultural heritage: the language barrier and the complexity of the reservation process. Although K-pop and Korean cinema have attracted a surge of international visitors to the capital, many overseas tourists have expressed frustration in navigating unconventional experiences such as temple stays, herbal medicine consultations, and monastic cuisine.

To address this issue, the city is set to introduce an innovative solution that combines the power of generative AI with traditional Korean practices. By employing AI, location-based audio guides, and automated booking platforms, the authorities hope to bridge the gap between the rich cultural heritage of Korea and the needs of international tourists.

The project aims to create a more seamless and accessible experience for foreign visitors, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the unique traditions and practices that make Seoul's cultural landscape so distinctive.