Case Study: National Museum of Korea creates a full-scale 3D replica of Seokguram Grotto with 3D Systems' Geomagic Wrap

3D Scanning to Preserve and Share a National Treasure in Korea

3D Systems worked with KAIST CT and the National Museum of Korea to digitally reconstruct Seokguram Grotto, a 1,200-year-old UNESCO-listed cave shrine that is difficult for the public to access. The challenge was to create an exact, full-scale digital replica that captured the shrine’s intricate sculptures and details for public display and long-term preservation.

The team scanned thousands of points with a Konica Minolta Vivid 9i and processed the data in 3D Systems’ Geomagic Wrap (using the Mesh Buildup Wizard/XOS) to produce watertight 3D meshes, then added color and texture in Autodesk Maya. The result was a complete 3D replica and a 3D HD movie exhibited at the National Museum (Dec 2008–Mar 2009), giving visitors close access to the site, supporting future restoration, and earning praise for efficient handling of large scan datasets.

National Museum of Korea

Park

Senior Researcher of the Production Team