Cambodia–Korea Heritage Partnership Restores Chorm Temple, Showcasing Model for Sustainable Conservation

SIEM REAP, Cambodia (Dec. 18, 2025) — Cambodian and South Korean experts have completed the restoration of Chorm Temple, part of the Prasat Preah Pithu Group in the Angkor complex, marking a milestone in international cooperation on cultural heritage preservation.

The five-year project, launched in 2019, was led by the Korea Heritage Agency in collaboration with Cambodia’s APSARA National Authority. The work concluded this month, returning the ancient structure to stability after decades of deterioration.

Project head and architect Eo Jinkyu said the temple regained its strength through a meticulous process of dismantling and reassembling the stone structure piece by piece. A total of 313 original stones found at the site were restored to their positions, while missing elements such as lintels, pillars and door frames were reconstructed.

Before the intervention, Chorm Temple had suffered extensive damage from weathering, age and invasive tree roots that weakened its foundation and caused partial collapse. The team addressed these challenges through documentation, reinforcement and reconstruction based on archaeological evidence.

Cambodian officials said the project offers a model of sustainable conservation built on international partnership, technical expertise and respect for authenticity. Once reopened by APSARA, the restored temple is expected to enhance visitor experience at Angkor and boost cultural tourism.

The completion underscores the growing role of cultural diplomacy between Cambodia and South Korea, reinforcing shared commitments to safeguarding world heritage for future generations.