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THE TRUST LAYER

Certification is how culture earns trust.

The ichmasters Trust Layer is the world's only global certification framework for living cultural heritage. Certification means verified quality, authenticity, and market access.

Certification = Trust = Market Access

340+

Certified Practitioners

47

Countries

89

Active Cities

47

Arirang Masters

Three Tiers of Certification

Progress through our certification framework to unlock greater visibility, trust, and opportunities in the global cultural marketplace.

Tier 1

Foundation Certificate

Platform access, community entry, basic program listing

2,100+Est. 2020
Platform profile and listing
Community access
Basic marketplace features
Networking opportunities
Tier 2

ICH Professional Certificate

For practitioners, festivals, education programs, and heritage events

340+Est. 2019
All Foundation benefits
Verified badge on profile
Priority marketplace listing
Access to institutional requests
Professional development resources
Highest Recognition
Tier 3

Arirang Master Award

International recognition for outstanding masters of intangible cultural heritage

47Est. 2018
All Professional benefits
Gold Master badge
Featured practitioner status
International speaking opportunities
Advisory board eligibility
Premium marketplace placement

Why Get Certified?

ichmasters certification opens doors to opportunities worldwide and establishes your credibility in the global cultural marketplace.

Verified Authenticity

Stand out with a verified badge that signals trust and authenticity to institutions and clients worldwide.

Global Visibility

Get discovered by cultural cities, institutions, and organizations in 47 countries seeking certified practitioners.

Market Access

Unlock access to premium marketplace listings and exclusive institutional requests and opportunities.

Community Network

Join a global community of certified practitioners, share knowledge, and collaborate on cultural projects.

Professional Growth

Access professional development resources, masterclasses, and advancement opportunities within the certification framework.

Institutional Trust

Cultural institutions prefer certified practitioners for their events, knowing quality and authenticity are guaranteed.

Special Recognition Badges

Beyond certification tiers, practitioners can earn special recognition for outstanding contributions.

Heritage Steward
Youth Transmission
Women's Leadership
Heritage for Peace
Community Resilience

Certification Process

Our rigorous yet accessible certification process ensures authenticity and quality.

01

Apply

Submit your application with credentials and portfolio

02

Review

Expert panel reviews your heritage expertise and practice

03

Verify

Background verification and authenticity assessment

04

Certify

Receive certification and join the global network

Ready to Get Certified?

Join 340+ certified practitioners and gain access to the global cultural marketplace.