"Changdeokgung Palace as 'Chinese-Style Architecture'? Controversy Over Macau Airlines In-Flight Guidebook"

Incorrect Description in Macau Airlines' "Destination Guide"
Professor Seo Kyung-duk: "A Clear Error... Immediate Correction Requested"

A controversy has arisen after it was revealed that a guidebook placed on Macau Airlines in-flight seats described Changdeokgung Palace, one of Korea's representative cultural heritage sites, as "Chinese-style architecture."

Error in the content of the guidebook placed on the seats of Air Macau (red underline). Professor Seokyungdeok Instagram

On January 13, Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women’s University announced via his social media that, following a tip-off from a netizen, he had confirmed that the Macau Airlines guidebook contained an incorrect explanation of Changdeokgung Palace. According to Professor Seo, the "Destination Guide" booklet provided on Macau Airlines flights introduced Changdeokgung Palace using the term "Chinese-style architecture" in all three languages: English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Professor Seo stated that he immediately sent a protest email to Macau Airlines. In the email, he pointed out, "This is a clear error," and emphasized, "Changdeokgung Palace is a representative traditional Korean architectural structure that forms a harmonious space between nature and architecture."

Changdeokgung Palace. Photo by The Asia Business Daily Database

He further stressed, "This value has been recognized by the international community, as evidenced by its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997," adding, "Such incorrect descriptions can lead to misunderstandings about Korean cultural heritage among foreigners, so they must be corrected as soon as possible."

Professor Seo also added, "There are still many errors regarding Korean culture and history around the world," and stated, "Active reports from netizens are greatly helping to correct these mistakes."