The Role of Digital Transformation in the Conservation and Promotion of Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark

In recent times, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has directed Lang Son Geopark Management Board to propose and complete the provincial-level scientific and technological task titled “Research on the conservation and promotion of certain intangible cultural heritage types in Lang Son Geopark region.” As a result, products on several types of intangible cultural heritage have been researched, analyzed, compiled, and digitized an electronic document system accessible on the Lang Son Geopark's electronic portal. These have also been sent to agencies and local authorities across the province to support research, education, preservation and the sustainable development of tourism and services in the geopark region.

The photo book on the project “Research on the conservation and promotion of certain types of intangible cultural heritage in Lang Son Geopark region”

Since April 2024, we have cooperated with both national and international consulting experts to implement the project "Zoning for the Protection of Geological Heritage in Lang Son Geopark area." This project includes the digitization and creation of a database that supports digital transformation. This involves compiling and digitizing databases of zoning maps for the geopark’s heritage sites, contributing to future management and planning.

Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) technology has been applied in the design of prehistoric creature images, 3D cartoon books and several intangible cultural heritage images the Lang Son Geopark region. These are displayed on informational panels using QR codes that link to relevant information on the Geopark’s website. These designs are also used at tourist sites and displayed on interactive TV screens at three Lang Son Geopark information centers in Lang Son City, Bac Son District and Huu Lung District.

Painting of the Four Mother Goddesses using artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Simulation of prehistoric creatures in the Lake lifetime window Site using artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Promoting the Image, Attracting Investment, and Mobilizing Support for the Development and Operation of Lang Son Geopark

Regarding promotion, the design of Lang Son Geopark’s brand identity, featuring symbols such as star anise and the lion-cat head and Dan Tinh musical instrument, has begun to be used on uniforms. We also actively collaborate with the media to promote the Geopark across digital platforms, including its website[1], social media, YouTube, and TikTok.

The lion-cat head, Dan Tinh musical instrument and other elements in the Lang Son Geopark brand identity are designed using AI technology

In terms of mobilizing resources and attracting investment, we have successfully mobilized support nine sponsors who contributed physical materials (2D models, stone benches, renovations of earthen houses, and landscape improvements), with a total value of over 1 billion VND. Seven businesses in the Geopark area have proactively connected and signed agreements to become partners of  Lang Son Geopark, independently investing in the development and renovation of infrastructure along four of the Geopark’s tourist routes.

Solutions for Enhancing the Effectiveness of Digital Transformation Efforts in the Development and Operation of Lang Son Geopark in the Future

1. Increase public awareness of the role and importance of digital transformation in promoting the image and value of UNESCO Lang Son Global Geopark.
2. Submit a proposal to the provincial government to adjust tasks in the project for developing Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark in line with Decision No. 1091/QĐ-UBND, dated July 17, 2023, ensuring it fits the current context. This includes adding tasks related to 3D digitization of 38 tourist sites across four Lang Son Geopark tourism routes, including an automatic narration system in Vietnamese, Chinese, and English at each site.
3. Increase the participation of officials in training on digital skills and IT applications to improve the quality of work at Lang Son Geopark.
4. Implement four models assigned under Plan 197/KH-UBND, focusing on AI camera installation for tourist site management and tourism analytics based on visitor data.
5. Propose methods to develop unique cultural products associated with sustainable tourism and the digitization of products to support the promotion and conservation of Lang Son Geopark’s distinctive values.
6. Propose the development of Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark – Lang Son Provincial Museum Complex, integrating digital and AI technology to renew exhibition methods, creating 3D virtual tours.
7. Continue working with central and local media to promote Lang Son Geopark, particularly after UNESCO issues the official document recognizing Lang Son as a UNESCO Global Geopark, expected in May 2025, and during the certificate ceremony scheduled for September 2025.
8. Organize the official ceremony to announce the UNESCO Global Geopark designation, scheduled for September 2025, in the Republic of Chile.

Lang Son Geopark Management Board