The National Research Institute of Maritime Heritage (NRIMH) of Korea, in partnership with the Vietnam National Museum of History, has initiated a joint underwater heritage survey in Bình Châu Bay and the waters off Châu Thuận, Quảng Ngãi Province, Vietnam. The primary goal of this project is to strengthen cultural heritage exchange and cooperation between Korea and Vietnam, while investigating the historical footprints of the maritime Silk Road in Asia. This survey marks NRIMH’s first underwater excavation in a foreign country, highlighting Korea’s advanced underwater archaeology techniques. The collaboration leverages Korea’s expertise and Vietnam’s rich underwater cultural heritage environment.
The target area, Bình Châu Bay, historically served as a crucial layover for maritime trade routes connecting ancient China and Japan to Southeast Asia, India, and South Asia via the South China Sea. Numerous ancient shipwrecks, such as the Châu Tân (8–9th century) and Bình Châu (13–14th century) vessels, along with ceramics from the Tang, Ming, and Qing dynasties and ancient anchors, have been discovered in this region. The area is regarded as a repository of underwater cultural heritage, often referred to as the ‘Tomb of Ancient Shipwrecks.’ The joint survey team, composed of experts from both countries, will conduct diving operations and trial excavations to directly examine and assess the condition of previously identified shipwrecks and artifacts.
The survey is scheduled to run from March 5 to March 31, 2024. Korean underwater archaeologists will collaborate with their Vietnamese counterparts by diving and removing silt to inspect shipwrecks and artifacts firsthand. This project is expected to facilitate academic sharing, allowing Korea to transfer its world-class underwater excavation skills, developed over 50 years through projects like the Shinan shipwreck, to Vietnam. The NRIMH aims to successfully complete the survey, uncover the submerged history of Asian maritime networks, and promote Korea’s excellence in underwater archaeology to the international community.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the main purpose of this joint survey? The project aims to enhance cultural heritage cooperation and investigate the maritime Silk Road’s history. Who is conducting the survey? The NRIMH of Korea and the Vietnam National Museum of History are leading the effort with a joint team of experts. What is the significance of Bình Châu Bay? It is a historically important site for ancient maritime trade and a repository of shipwrecks and artifacts. The survey will provide valuable insights into the region’s underwater cultural heritage.
Metaqsol opinion: The Korea-Vietnam joint underwater heritage survey is a landmark initiative in international cultural cooperation. By combining Korea’s advanced underwater archaeology techniques with Vietnam’s rich maritime heritage, the project is likely to yield significant historical discoveries about the maritime Silk Road. The academic exchange will benefit both countries and promote Korea’s expertise globally. The survey’s success could encourage further international partnerships in underwater archaeology and cultural heritage preservation.