By Adoree Kim
Korea Times Intern
Koichiro Matsuura, director general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), stressed the importance of cultural diversity for the 21st century at a forum in Seoul Tuesday.
``In today's globalizing world, there is a risk of social fragmentation if we don't act," he said, admitting that globalization had created the unprecedented opportunity to disseminate knowledge and dialogue worldwide but could threaten cultures by homogenizing everything in its path.
``Let's not demonize globalization. I believe it can be good," he said. But he cautioned that contrary to the expectations of many, globalization does not necessarily eliminate tensions between people of different cultures and can instead incite more anger and resentment.
The forum was hosted by the Korea Foundation, a government-affiliated organization aiming to promote Korean culture domestically and abroad.
The director general, who has a diplomatic background, also noted that the benefits of globalization vary from country to country and have led to unequal human development, which in turn contributes to broader issues concerning international security. Human development refers to ``economic development but also a person's opportunity to fulfill his or her identity," he said.
Matsuura worked with the Japanese Foreign Ministry for 40 years before joining UNESCO.
He observed that cultural diversity leads to conflict-resolution and is critical in maintaining world peace. He cited as an example the ancient bridge of Mostar, which was reconstructed in 2004 in war-torn Bosnia-Herzegovina as a symbol of reconciliation and ethnic harmony.
Culture and heritage play a significant role in reducing international tensions, which is why UNESCO works through non-governmental organizations and international grassroots networks to promote cultural awareness and appreciation, he added.
It is UNESCO's hope to create a world where people can preserve their unique identity and live harmoniously with those of other cultures, he told the forum.
He urged the international community to ``work as a whole to allow cultural diversity to flourish and to encourage intercultural dialogue and respect for others."
This is Matsuura's second official trip to Korea, following a visit in 2000 when he attended the opening ceremony of the Asia-Pacific Center of Education for International Understanding.
``Korea has demonstrated its resolve to promote cultural diversity," he said, praising the country's long-term efforts to foster intercultural exchange and preserve cultural landmarks. Eight sites in Korea have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1995. The latest addition, which actually comprises three sites, has the collective name ``Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes.'' It was added in 2007.
Matsuura also spoke on the Korean government's decision to host the 2010 Second World Conference on Arts Education in Gwangju.
He said that the world event would transform Gwangju into a major center of the arts, culture, tourism and entertainment by 2012.
Matsuura traveled to Gwangju to attend the opening ceremony of the UNESCO Children's Arts Festival of East Asia (CPAF) Wednesday. He also received an honorary doctorate from Kyunghee University in Seoul.
He leaves Korea Saturday.