Hang Kan, NPC Deputy: Cracking the Secrets of Protecting Ancient Grottoes

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http://mp42.china.com.cn/video_tide/2025/3/7/2025371741312790992_408.mp4

Hang Kan's journey into archaeology began in 1982 when he decided to study archaeology at Shanxi University. After graduation, he started his career at the Henan Institute of Ancient Architecture Preservation. In those early years, he dedicated himself to measuring Buddhist niches in cave temples, uncovering hidden historical mysteries. In 1992, he took his passion further by enrolling at Peking University, where he began in-depth research on the Yungang Grottoes. His work has not only solved many academic challenges but also overturned some long-held theories.

In 1994, Hang Kan's research on the Yungang Grottoes uncovered the mysteries of the five caves created by monk Tan Yao.Through meticulous archaeological observation, he discovered that the repair traces in the caves documented a thousand years of historical changes. These findings laid the groundwork for subsequent research and contributed to the development of the “Yungang Model”, which gained recognition in the academic community.

In the 21st century, Hang Kan has shifted his focus to cultural heritage conservation. Facing challenges such as weathering and water seepage, he introduced advanced technologiesand pioneered an innovative mechanism that treats the rock mass as a “patient”, ensuring the long-term preservation of the Yungang Grottoes. He is also an active advocate of digitalization, leveraging laser scanning and VR technology to make the grottoes’artistic value accessible to a wider audience.

While exploring new methods and technologies to conserve the Yungang Grottoes, Hang Kan also strives to raise public awareness and engagemore people in the preservation efforts. He believes that the best way to protect the grottoes is not to close them off, but to make everyone a guardian of history.

Executive Producer: Wang Xiaohui

Production Supervisor: Xue Lisheng

Co-Production Supervisor: Dai Fan

Line Producer: Yang Dan

Producer:Fang Xiaoqi

Director: Zheng Liang

Videographers: Li Wei

Post Producers: Liu Wei

Editor: Fang Xiaoqi

Supported by Gong'an County Media Center

Produced by China Figures, China Internet Information Center