Digital Technology Application in Preserving and Promoting Traditional Cultural Values: International Experience and Lessons for Vietnam

Abstract

Digital technology is creating a turning point in global cultural heritage preservation, clearly demonstrated through pioneering projects like CyArk (USA) with its capability to 3D scan over 200 monuments - from Angkor Wat temple to the Statue of Liberty - to store multi-dimensional data for research and emergency reconstruction. Meanwhile, France makes its mark with ReViVA - an AI system analyzing ancient oil painting structures with 95% accuracy in restoring artistic masterpieces, opening a new approach for art conservation. The trend of integrating artificial intelligence and virtual reality (VR/AR) at Gyeongju Museum (South Korea) and Kyoto Museum (Japan) further affirms the potential of digital technology in transforming static heritage into dynamic experiences, where visitors can "handle" virtual artifacts or explore monuments through 360-degree views. However, in Vietnam, although some heritage sites like Thang Long Imperial Citadel have been successfully digitized, this process still faces three main challenges: limited budget (under 5% of total conservation funding), shortage of heritage technology experts, and incomplete legal framework for digital intellectual property. To address these limitations, it is necessary to combine multiple solutions such as building a centralized digital database for UNESCO heritage, promoting cooperation with domestic technology corporations to access financial and technical resources, while developing interdisciplinary training programs combining archaeology with AI. Piloting blockchain applications in heritage image copyright management and implementing educational VR applications for students are also practical steps, not only preventing digital heritage infringement but also creating bridges between tradition and young generations. The success of digital transformation will determine the position of Vietnamese heritage in the context of globalization, transforming them into drivers for smart tourism development and valuable resources for interdisciplinary research.