How can artificial intelligence preserve ancient traditions while propelling cultural innovation? This question took center stage at the Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength 2025, which opened Monday in Shenzhen, drawing scholars, tech experts, and cultural leaders to chart a path for China's digital-era cultural strategy.
Civilization's Continuity Meets Digital Transformation
Zhang Zhiqiang of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences framed the discussion with a historical perspective: "The unbroken thread of Chinese civilization—surviving floods, wars, and dynastic changes—gives us unique cultural confidence." He emphasized that this resilience now faces its newest test: adapting to AI-driven modernity without losing essential cultural DNA.
From Museum Artifacts to Global Audiences
Academician Gao Wen demonstrated AI's transformative potential through vivid examples:
Dynamic 3D recreations of static artifacts
Smart museum guides that "make bronzes speak"
AI translation breaking language barriers for cultural exports
"We're not just preserving the past," Gao noted, "but creating new cultural forms that resonate globally."
The Human Factor in Tech-Driven Culture
Wuhan University's Shen Zhuanghai struck a cautionary note: "While our 'AI Plus Culture' initiatives have digitized 87% of nationally protected heritage sites, true cultural strength requires more than algorithms." He called for nationwide digital literacy programs to ensure technology amplifies—rather than replaces—human creativity.
The forum, organized by the CPC Central Committee's Publicity Department, continues through Wednesday with specialized sessions on cross-border cultural exchanges and ethical AI development.
