Despite the growing use of digital applications in cultural heritage preservation, limited research exists on
the comparative effectiveness of digital versus traditional display methods for preserving ethnic costume
heritage. This study investigates how digital technologies influence the perception of Korean traditional
costumes among China’s Korean ethnic minority (Chaoxianzu). Using CLO3D digital modelling and
questionnaire surveys (n = 107), we found that digital display methods excel in communicating costume
characteristics through three-dimensional visualisation and multi-angle presentation, with particularly
strong evaluations for intuitiveness (81.31%) and colour representation (76.64%). Digital methods
significantly enhance cultural understanding (75.70%) and stimulate innovative applications (70.09%),
especially among younger audiences (85% positive response rate). Our findings reveal that digital and
physical display methods serve complementary rather than competing roles—digital methods excel in
accessibility and spatial representation (87.85% preferred for multi-angle observation). In comparison,
traditional approaches provide essential tactile experiences, which are valued for their material experience
(89.72%). Statistical analysis identifies 360◦ multi-angle observation (β = 0.41) and magnified detail
observation (β = 0.35) as the most critical technical factors affecting perception value. This research
provides empirical evidence for developing integrated preservation strategies that combine digital
technologies with traditional approaches to enhance the transmission and sustainable development of
ethnic costume heritage.
