South Korea will foster the conservation and responsible management of
in accordance with a memorandum of understanding signed this week by the two countries.
It includes a joint Official Development Assistance (ODA) project in the national archaeological park of Machu Picchu, aimed at preserving the historic sanctuary declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983.
"The ODA project in Machu Picchu will assess the site's conservation conditions, a cultural treasure of the Inca civilization increasingly affected by mass tourism and climate change," the KHS said in a statement.
Comprehensive system
The project will also establish a comprehensive system for the preservation and use of cultural heritage, which will include digitization, restoration, and preventive measures against damage.
"Since November 2023 we have been meeting with the KHS for various related projects, such as rock cleaning at the site. The MOU is the result of mid-term efforts," the
Peruvian Embassy in South Korea told Efe.
The memorandum also covers the organization of events and conferences, educational and academic exchange, cooperation in cultural dissemination activities, and the exchange of knowledge on heritage policies and management in both countries.
Project to start in 2026
The objective is to start the project in 2026 and, once the review process is completed, the South Korean agency will assume its execution as the implementing entity of the ODA.
Until now, the KHS has developed ODA projects mainly in Asia and, since 2023, in Egypt.
With the agreement with Peru, South Korea expands these initiatives to the American continent.
The Inca city of Machu Picchu, a Natural and Cultural World Heritage Site, was built around 1450. It is located in the province of Urubamba, in Cusco region.
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