Young Jae Kim

Korea National University of Cultural Heritage, Heritage Science and Technology Studies/ International Cultural Heritage Studies, Faculty Member, Faculty Member

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Professor Young Jae Kim, an eminent scholar in the field of historical architecture and urban studies, harnesses insights from cultural heritages in his research. He was awarded a PhD in the history and theory of architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. Presently, he holds a professorship at the Korea National University of Heritage and is a UNESCO Chairholder, specializing in Capacity Building for the Preservation and Restoration of Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage. His research spans a broad spectrum, encompassing design principles and interpretations of architecture from ancient to contemporary periods, ranging from universal to local styles. He also explores the cultural landscapes of architectural and urban heritage, the utilization of Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) and archival practices for heritage sites, and devises strategies for heritage conservation in response to climate change. Furthermore, he delves into the conservation principles and philosophies of heritage based on hermeneutics, where he has established himself as a pioneer. Among his published works are articles in the International Journal of Heritage Studies, International Journal of Architectural Heritage, Frontiers of Architectural Research, Religions, Korea Journal, and the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering.

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From Stupa to Pagoda: Re-Examining the Sinification and Transformation of Buddhist Monuments from Indian Origins

This study conducts a comparative analysis of Buddhist sacred structures throughout Asia, focusin... more This study conducts a comparative analysis of Buddhist sacred structures throughout Asia, focusing on the historical development, regional disparities, and the cultural sinification process of stūpas, caityas, and pagodas. Specifically, it delves into the origins, definitions, and terminologies of early Buddhist monuments, such as stūpas/mahācetiyas and caityas/cetiyas, emphasizing their Indian origins. The research further explores the adaptation and reinterpretation of these original Indian concepts as they spread to East Asia, morphing into new forms, such as pagodas and Buddha halls. It examines the subtle shifts in terminology and the altered meanings and functions of these monuments, from their Indian origins to their sinified representations in East Asia. The transformation of Indian Buddhist monuments through local culture and technology into East Asian architectural forms is investigated, offering a detailed perspective on the dynamic transformation of sacred spaces in Buddhism. This illustrates the religion’s adaptability and integration with the local cultures of ancient East Asia. By analyzing the terminologies and symbolic meanings associated with the architectural transition from stūpa to pagoda, the study argues that sinicized ritual spaces in East Asia have adopted architectural types from pre-Buddhist traditions to represent Indian spaces, thereby highlighting the nuanced changes and the continuous adaptation of sacred Buddhist architecture.

Young Jae Kim

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