Have tourism been a culprit in commodifying tradition and culture of Korea?

My answer is yes. This is because of the fact that so many aspects of Korea tradition and culture are turned into commercialised products that make money for them. With temple stay programmes in the Buddhist temple how can I still say that tourism is not a culprit for commodifying tradition and culture in Korea?

However, if you were to see things in the other point of view, because of the commercialisation of tradition and culture product of Korea, more people are able to learn about Korean Buddhism, how to make Kimchi, how to wear a Hanbok and etc. It gives tradition and culture a value to for the locals to conserve and sustain them. Since majority of the Koreans believes in Confucianism, up until today, the traditions passed down from the older generations to be practiced during festivals and events are still being practiced at Korea today. They feel that it is their duty and an obligation to practice them and treat them as part of their life. As such, even though some form of tradition and culture were commercialised, but they also helps to promote Korea’s tradition and culture and earn them money at the same time.

With such form of benefits, commodification of tradition and culture of Korea may not be a bad thing since the loss or dilution of tradition and culture is not much of a problem right now.