The APSARA National Authority (ANA) and South Korea’s Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to improve Cambodia’s conservation of cultural heritage, in order to further boost tourism.

The signing ceremony was held in the presence of ANA director-general Hang Peou and CHA president Choi Eung-Chon in Seoul on February 19, according to the ANA.

The ANA explained that the MoU focuses on conservation and restoration work on Angkor Wat’s Bakan Tower for the next three years.

“In addition to the renovation of the tower, it also includes training and an exchange of knowledge related to new technologies we will present to domestic and international tourists,” it said.

ANA spokesman Long Kosal said on February 20 that the agreement begins this year and will run for three years. This is not the first time that South Korea has helped to repair the temples of Angkor, he added.

“The renovation of the Bakan Tower will begin shortly. In addition, the two sides will cooperate on historical research, while sharing experiences and training additional human resources,” he said.

The Korean side expects that more Korean tourists will visit Cambodia and witness the close cooperation between the two nations.

The ANA described how the contributions of Korea, or any other country, make a significant contribution to boosting tourism at Angkor Wat.

Nhoem Sideth, a tour guide in the Angkor Archaeological Park, shared his appreciation for the restoration work being carried out at Angkor Wat by Cambodian and foreign specialists, noting that their efforts to conserve and preserve the great temple means it remains beautiful and strong and will continue to stand for a long time.

“Angkor Wat is one of the world’s greatest architectural structures, and most visitors to Angkor never miss the chance to see it. I believe that the cooperation between the ANA and South Korea will boost tourism to the Angkor park,” he said.