The Zen Dance Exhibition: Digital Technology as a Contemporary Medium for Transmitting the Lý Dynasty’s Buddhist Heritage

Abstract

The Lý Dynasty (1009 - 1225) marked a significant turning point in the development of Zen Buddhism in Vietnam, during which Zen philosophical principles were integrated into architecture and sculpture. This study examines the application of digital technology as a transformative tool for reconstructing and disseminating the Lý Dynasty’s Buddhist heritage in contemporary museum contexts. Adopting a qualitative approach and drawing on a case study of the “Zen Dance” exhibition at the National Museum of Vietnamese History, this research analyzes how immersive technologies, such as 3D mapping, photogrammetry, and AR/VR, transform Buddhist motifs into interactive experiences. The results indicate that these technologies not only enable the accurate restoration of intricate details of historical artifacts but also enhance visitors’ multi-sensory engagement with Buddhist cultural heritage. The study further proposes policy recommendations for Vietnam, highlighting the role and potential of digital heritage technologies in promoting access to and dissemination of Buddhist cultural values and religious education in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In addition, it suggests that innovations in the digital preservation of Buddhist relics contribute to broader national development goals.