Contemporary history is the study of recent events which are closely connected to the present day. Since the people involved in those events are still alive and their view of history is very subjective, it is often difficult to decide how to interpret contemporary history. This is why it is difficult to reach a consensus on how contemporary history is viewed and explained to future generations.
Museum professionals from around the world who attended the recent international symposium in Seoul said the readiness to accommodate varying, multiple, and sometimes conflicting interpretations and willingness to discuss and acknowledge even shameful past events are key elements for establishing a museum of contemporary history.
"It is imperative that the museum seeks out and provides access to varying interpretations of the events in contemporary history shaping the national narrative", said Alissandra Cummins, chairperson of the Executive Board of UNESCO, in a keynote speech at the symposium to mark the scheduled opening of the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History.
The two-day symposium kicked off at the Press Center on November 23 with keynote speeches and panel presentations by dignitaries and academics including Cumins as well as President Hans-Martin Hinz of the International Council of Museums, director Kang Hong-bin of the Seoul Museum of History, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choe Kwang-shik, and Korea's first Culture Minister Lee O-Young.
Because of conflicting interpretations and divergent opinions, participants of the symposium said the museum should provide an opportunity for reconciliation through dialogue.
For the full article, visit the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's website.