national geoparks of korea

vol. 02
2015
magazine
National Geoparks of Korea Sculptured by nature
Breathing through grains of time
Treasuring mysteries of the beginning
Jeju island, a breath of indigenous beauty
Ulleungdo and Dokdo, harvesters of ancient mysteries
Busan, the land of abundance and traces of Gaya history
Gangwon, an orchestra for songs of peace
Cheongsong, an enchanted landscape where fairies frolic
Mudeungsan Area, a southern haven which shines like crystal
Undescribable beauty
Carved by nature and time
Together with the wisdom of mankind,
National Geoparks tell the story of land and time
Here unfolds,
Spring,
Summer,
Autumn,
Winter.
The four
seasons
National Geoparks of Korea
Spring
The buds sprouting along the foot of Hallasan Mountain
Beckon in the freshly green of Spring.
Jeju Island National Geopark Geosite Hallasan
Gangwon Peace National Geopark Geosite Naerincheon Pothole
And the rape flower which blooms below Seongsanbong
Holds the song of Spring in its yellow envelope.
A letter is sent from Jeju to announce the early Spring.
Gangwon, a land pained with the memories of war.
As the warm Spring tides extend its reach
The echo of peace bellows throughout
Until it flows to the village below.
Across the sea from Jeju Island
To the lands of Gangwon yearning for peace,
The song of Spring it rings clear and far
Throughout the mountains and seas.
Summer
At the dusk of the evening
The Oryukdo Islets await its time,
It grasps the falling summer sun
And hides it within its silky sands
Then with a wisp of its magic
Turns the whole world red.
Asleep within the deep sea
Ulleungdo and Dokdo
The brother islands separated a far
After the rain passes
They send each other waves of
yearning Across the endless sea.
Busan National Geopark Geosite Oryukdo
Ulleungdo Dokdo National Geopark Geosite Songgot Peak
Autumn
Cheongsong National Geopark Geosite Giam Cliff
Cheongsong National Geopark has kept its secret for 70 million years
The rocks shaped by rain and wind spread along like a folding screen
The autumn sky is ever high as Juwangsan Mountain changes its garment
Its colorful facial features are revealed as it once again dreams of timeless evolution.
In its broad bosom embracing the world
Mudeungsan Mountain unravels its tale
Caressed are the large snowflakes of winter
Of endless stories that passed through its peaks
A dazzling kingdom of snow unfolds
And of legends it speaks
And there is no rival to compare
Of those that protect the lands of Namdo
Mudeungsan Mountain is this world.
In its bosom wider than the depths of time
Once again as we set on the path
It warmly embraces the frozen lands.
The sound of nature whispers in our ears
It lures us to rest our weary feet
Under the silver tunnel of Seoseokdae
Where the sun still lingers.
Contents
section 1 NATIONAL GEOPARKS OF KOREA
13
Issue Cheongsong National Geopark pursues Global Geopark Certification
Mudeungsan Area receives National Geopark Certification
16
Power Interview
Pop singer, Lee Janghee
16
18
20
22
24
26
Winter
13
28
30
18
Geopark and Ecology
Gangwon Peace National Geopark
20
Geopark and Scenery
Ulleungdo Dokdo National Geopark
22
Geopark and Habitat
Jeju Island National Geopark
24
Geopark and History
Mudeungsan Area National Geopark
26
Geopark and Experience
Busan National Geopark
28
Geopark and Education
Cheongsong National Geopark
30
National Geoparks of Korea News
section 2 NATIONAL GEOPARKS OF WORLD
33
36
33
Focus
The 4th APGN Symposium in San’in Kaigan
36
Report
The 2nd Symposium on Developing Geoparks within
East & Southeast Asia region
38
아이슬란드
1
2
네덜란드
1
1
노르웨이
아일랜드
5
1
6
2
독일
1
체코
5
프랑스
4
포르투칼
1
10
9
스페인
이탈리아
모로코
1
핀란드
3
1
오스트리아
독일/폴란드
영국
1
아일랜드-북아일랜드
4
그리스
덴마크
슬로베니아/오스트리아
1
1
헝가리/슬로바키아
1
루마니아
1
헝가리
터키
1
크로아티아
1
슬로베니아
8
31
중국
2
캐나다
개소
2022년까지
세계지질공원 등재 목표
한국
1
7
38
Proposal
Direction for the Development of National Geoparks upon
일본
1
1
베트남
말레이시아
1
인도네시아
1
브라질
1
Official Launch of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Program
우루과이
section 3 GEOPARKS IN OUR LIFE
41
41
A Visit to Geopark ①
Finding a path in ‘Convergence’
Oh Chang Hyeon, Meeting with Director of the Convergence
44
46
48
50
Strategy Department at the Jeju Tourism Organization
44
A Visit to Geopark ②
Keum Dong Won, An encounter with an artist who paints nature
46
Geoparks in Literature
Cheongsong National Geopark in Literature
48
Look into Geoparks
Encounter with Yigidae through the film ‘Haeundae’
50
Get the feel of Geopark
‘Rhapsody to nature’, Painter Yoo Youngkuk
National Geoparks of Korea 2015 Vol. 2
Mudeungsan Area National Geopark Geosite Seoseokdae
Publication date October 14, 2015 | Publisher National Geoparks Secretariat | Adress 4th FL. 12.Mapo-dearo 10-gil,
Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea | Homepage http://www.koreageoparks.kr | Production Design Mentor 02-2275-3040
In Issues, we will review Cheongsong National Geopark’s efforts and application status for UNESCO Global Geopark
certification since being invited into the circle of National Geoparks last year. Also, we will introduce
Mudeungsan Area National Geopark which was certified as the sixth National Geopark in Korea.
section 1
NATIONAL GEOPARKS OF KOREA
The National Geoparks of Korea, living chronicles on the birth of the Korean Peninsula, the
land of beautiful scenery stretching far and wide.
ISSUE
National Geoparks
of Korea
In this section, we will address the issues on Cheongsong National Geopark’s initiatives to get
globally certified by UNESCO and the national certification of Mudeungsan Area Geopark.
We also conducted Power Interview with a singer Lee, Jang-hee on his life in Ulleungdo. At
ISSUE 01
the end of the section, you will meet 6 National Geoparks with 6 distinct themes.
Cheongsong National Geopark pursues Global Geopark Certification
16
ISSUE 02
<
Power Interview
Pop singer, Lee Janghee
Geopark and History
Mudeungsan Area
National Geopark
24
>
18 >
Geopark and Ecology
Gangwon Peace
National Geopark
<
26
Geopark and Experience
Busan National Geopark
Mudeungsan Area receives National Geopark Certification
Mudeungsan Area receives
National Geopark Certification
Cheongsong National Geopark
pursues Global Geopark Certification
issue 01
issue 02
from its previous two zones of Juwangsan
district and Sinseong district to satisfy
Global Geopark application conditions.
Meanwhile, on February 23, 2015,
Cheongsong hosted a “Symposium for
Global Geopark application” which began
a series of public hearings with residents
to drive submission of the application
for Global Geopark certification later
this year. According to Global Geopark
application procedures, applications
must be made between 1 October and 1
December every year. Document review
Following its successful certification as a
not only a beautiful landscape, but a total
takes place from 1 January to 30 April,
National Geopark last year, Cheongsong-
of 24 geosites with rich history such as Mt.
and site evaluation is conducted after
gun is now pursuing registration as a
Juwangsan National Park, Baekseoktan
May.
UNESCO Geopark. The expectation
Valley, and Giam Tuff Cliff. Based on its
The GGN (Global Network of National
is that by becoming a Global Geopark,
geological heritage, Cheongsong-gun
Geoparks) Bureau will collect the
Cheongsong will be able to systematically
became the fourth local authority to
evaluations of the individual geopark
preserve and manage its national heritage,
receive National Geopark certification in
experts and prepare a report to be
as well as utilize it more effectively for
Korea on April 11, 2014.
submitted to the UNESCO GGN Council,
tourism and education. This will help
Cheongsong-gun has created strong
where positively assessed applicants shall
Cheongsong-gun differentiate its eco-
fundamentals to get approval as a Global
be invited to GGN membership. The
preservation strategy from other areas as
Geopark by faithfully carrying out the
GGN (Global Geoparks Network) is
The Mudeungsan Area National Geopark became
Park Management Authorities, Gwangju City and
well as stimulate its local economy.
recommendations it received at the time
recognized as one of the major natural
the sixth National Geopark in Korea at the 9th
Jeollanam-do Province, with Geopark certification
In addition, Global Geopark certification
of National Geopark certification such
environment conservation programs
Geoparks Committee held on November 27, 2014.
and commemoratory plaque. Gwangju City and
consisting of 20 experts from
as re-establishment of park boundaries,
supported by UNESCO, along with the
Jeollanam-do Province hope that the Geopark
government agencies and
will also increase the value of local
With a total area of 246.31㎢, the Mudeungsan
development of geological tourism and
World Heritage Convention and the
Area National Geopark consists of 23 geosites
certification will help stimulate the local economy
Committee deliberates
local tourism industry through increased
education programs, and strengthening
World Network of Biosphere Reserves,
including Seoseokdae, Ipseokdae, Jigongneodeol,
by increasing tourism demands.
advertisement in Korea and abroad.
of visitor center experiences. In particular,
and there are currently 111 geoparks in 32
and Yunpilbong Natural Cave. The area has many
With the addition of Mudeungsan Area as a
Cheongsong which is the second National
the additional development of geosite
countries. In Korea, Jeju Island is the only
unique geological features such as a columnar
National Geopark, Korea now has a total of six
Geopark to pursue Global Geopark
has allowed Cheongsong to redefine its
Global Geopark registered in 2010.
jointing rock formation at the summit which is
National Geoparks; Jeju Island (December 2012),
certification in Korea after Jeju Island, has
park boundaries to all parts of the county
750m above sea level, a highly dense sea of rocks
Ulleungdo-Dokdo (December 2012), Busan
(neodeol), and the only natural cave in the Honam
(December 2013), Cheongsong (April 2014),
region. In particular, the columnar jointing rock
Gangwon Peace (April 2014), and Mudeungsan
formation which was made by repetitive cooling
Area (December 2014). In the second half of this
and contraction of hot volcanic ashes in the
year, Imjingang-Hantangang Geopark (Yeoncheon-
cretaceous period, has been recognized for its
gun and Pocheon-gun in Gyeonggi Province)
preservation value and thus designated as Natural
and Donghaean Area Geopark (Yuljin-gun,
Monument No. 465.
Yeongdeok-gun, Pohang-si, and Gyeongju-si in
The National Geoparks Secretariat of Korea
Gyeongsangbuk-do Province) are scheduled to
visited Gwangju City Hall last March to award
apply for National Geopark certification.
specialty products, as well as benefit the
Noruyongchu valley
Jusan Pond
13
14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Mananjaam Cliff
13 14
15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
*National Geoparks Committee :
A committee chaired by the Vice
Minister of Environment,
relevant organizations. The
certification of National Geoparks
and makes decisions on
core policy.
Power
Interview
A singer who can strike a chord with acoustic guitar and
Q. Nice to meet you. Along with the title ‘a legendary
set up in the garden. My friends have been with me for a long time.
I traveled it several times by ship, airplane and car. Hawaii also
a voice - Lee Jang-hee. He is one of the greatest singer-
singer-songwriter of the 70’s’, Ulleungdo reminds us of
I wasn’t able to see them often while I was in U.S. The best I could
fascinated me with the beauty of its own.
songwriters in our country who has many hit singles with
your name, Lee Jang-hee. Please tell me how and why
do was having get-together whenever I visited Korea on a business
The term of National Geopark sounded unfamiliar to me in the
poetic lyrics and beautiful melodies such as
you decided to settle down here after your retirement.
trip. They are Jeon Yu-Seong, Jo Young Nam, Kim Min-ki, Lee
first place but now I got the feel of it. Also, I realized that there are
< I'll Give Everything To You>, < It’s you>, < Memory of a drink>.
It just happened. It was by the request of my friend that I visited
Doo-shik, Lee Sang-Byuk, Kang Keun-shik, Kim Se-hwan, Song
6 national geoparks including Ulleungdo in which I live. Geoparks
Currently another word describing the singer is Ulleungdo
Ulleungdo passing through Pohang city in the fall of 1996. When
Chang-sik, Yoon Hyung-joo, Jo Dong-jin, Kim Jung-man and
are appealing to us because they show not only geological features
Island. Since his retirement in 2004, he has settled in
a ship from Pohang arrived in Dodong port, it entered between
Choi In-ho. I asked for their autographs and inscribed them on the
but also many other aspects of the area in harmony such as biology,
Ulleungdo. He is signing ‘Ulleungdo is my paradise’ the part
narrow and steep cliffs. Low-rise white buildings in a cluster
rocks all over Ulleung Cheongug. It made me feel that we could be
history and culture. As I enjoy my living in nature of Ulleungdo,
of whose lyrics includes ‘When spring comes, I’d gather
stretching along the ridges came into my sight. On a high hill
always together even when we were away from one another. Most
I hope all of you visit and enjoy national geoparks where scenery,
herbs. When summer arrives, I’d catch fish. In autumn, I’d
behind such scenes I looked down quite unordinary landscapes.
of all, it was likely to help our friendship last forever.
history and culture of the land are intertwined together.
count stars. In winter, I’d meet snow’. What in the world
‘What a view!’ I exclaimed. The first sight of Ulleungdo I’ve got
made him fall in love with the island? Here begins the story.
was way better than that of Santorini in Greece. I couldn’t stop
Q. Ulleungdo is a volcanic island which has been certified
Q. As a singer, producer and businessman, you seem to
as National Geopark, along with Jeju Island. It has precious
live your life in a way that you have never been afraid of
resources like Nari Basin, Gwaneumdo Islands, and
challenging something new. The recent news says that
primeval forest. As a resident of Ulleungdo, why don’t you
you plan to build 7080 Culture Center. Please tell us more
introduce it to us and suggest recommendable sites?
about your future plan.
There’s a huge rock towering in front of my place. In fact, it’s too
On a pond in frontyard of Ulleung Cheongug, there is a small-
large to be called a rock but too small to be called a mountain. A
scaled outdoor performance hall which fits perfectly the whole
trail on a slope is leading from my place to the rock. I walk along
area so visitors love it much. I performed for a small concert with
it for 40 minutes everyday to get there, which I call it Ulleung
Jo Young Nam on its stage. However, on this site, Gyeongsangbuk-
Chunbong while my neighbors call it Sukbong (Rocky peak).
do and Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism started
Once you are on top of it, a beautiful landscape of the north
building a hall for performance and commemoration, which is
Ulleungdo is unfolded. I go farther toward the hill in the back to
to be completed next year. It is a great pleasure that I can give a
get to its summit. The path is a little steep for me but I don’t mind
performance whether it rains or shines. Truly, I am a blessed man
it because it takes me to the best vista point in Ulleungdo area.
because I may perform from time to time with many old friends of
It’s quite cliffy in every direction, so I can’t be careful too much. I
mine who love music. I have never thought that I would achieve
believe that point is the best observatory in the whole area, which
something in my life but I tried my best in any circumstances. For
is not even known to the locals.
the rest of my life, I would like to live a life with my best and rest in
Ulleungdo is
my paradise
Pop singer, Lee Janghee
admiring it while touring for a week by boat or on foot with
high excitement, ‘My country has such scenery!’ I was so excited
as if I had discovered hidden treasures.
Actually, as a person who lived in U.S. for long, I used to think
that after retirement, I would move from place to place by
season e.g. staying Homer in Alaska during summer and in
Hawaii during fall or winter. However, I changed my mind
after the trip to Ulleungdo. In the spring of 1997, I came back
to the island and bought an old farm house with land which is
my home now and spent most of the time in there whenever I
came on a business trip to Korea. Since then I started calling my
home of Ulleungdo ‘Ulleung Cheongug’. I once thought about
remodeling a 100 year old farm house but I couldn’t because it
was hard for me to tear down the feelings of the vintage house.
Finally, I settled down here after my retirement in 2004.
Q. Ulleung Cheongug consists of a pond, an outdoor
theater and many other spaces. Rocks standing all over
the place makes me wonder. Engraved on the rocks are
the names of your friends, Jo Young Nam, Kim Min-ki,
Yoon Hyung-joo and Kim Jung-man as well as your name.
What do they mean?
Thankfully, someone has sent me a piece of rock which
encapsulated the beauty of columnar joints, wishing it to be used
for my garden. It was in a square shape and looked great when
Q.You must have been to many places, especially ones
that abound in the beauty of nature all around the world.
As a globetrotter, what do you think is the most appealing
feature of Korean national geoparks?
I have been interested in nature since I was in middle school
so went hiking in Bukhansan and Inwangsan and after being a
grown-up traveled Seoraksan, Jirisan and Jeju Island. When I was
in U.S., I explored the Andes, Tahiti, Alaska, and the Antarctic.
Also, I frequently visited many attractions adjacent to L.A., such
as Yosemite, John Muir Trail and Death Valley, a.k.a. the desert of
death. Alaska, called The Last Frontier, was so magnificent that
peace in Ulleung Cheongug, the place I loved most. Thank you.
生
water to flow during summer. Because
area include salamanders, the red-bellied
1.8m which means it is fair to estimate that
the pains of the Korean War. The city
of this, the migratory birds can drink
frog, and the green-veined white butterfly.
Yongneup was born between 4,000 ~ 5,100
has been associated with vestiges of
water here during the winter time
However, Daeamsan mountain, where
years ago. For this reason, Yongneup has
the Korean War such as the DMZ, the
without worry of it freezing over.
Yongneup swamp sits, is actually a
become an invaluable resource for research
Iron Triangle, and the Battle of White
Because of this unique geological
mountain known for its rough and rocky
in the fields of geology, plant ecology, and
Nature’s message from
the land of peace
Horse Hill. But now, it has become a
environment, from mid September
terrain from foot to summit. Yongneup is
plant geography, and became Korea’s first
“bird paradise.” How could a land so
to mid October, the Red-crowned
located in a spot that is foggy more than
site to be registered under the Ramsar
devastated into ruins, stripped of life,
Crane (Natural Monument No. 202)
170 days year round with exposure to below
Convention (international convention on
Gangwon Peace
National Geopark
become a paradise for birds? What
and White-Naped Crane (Natural
zero temperatures for at least five months in
the conservation of wetlands). It is currently
secrets of the land are attributable to
Monument No. 203) come from Siberia
a year. Therefore, the rocks here are wet with
designated and is being protected as Natural
this transformation? The answer can be
to spend winter in Cheorwon. Also, in
moisture, and the cold temperature causes
Monument No. 246.
found in the geology of Cheorwon.
mid winter, rare species of cinereous
a repetitive process of freezing and thawing
Gangwon Peace National Geopark also
Known as the “land of lava,” Cheorwon
vulture (Natural Monument No. 243-1)
which crumbles the rocks. When rain falls,
has lagoons, which are lakes that have been
Gangwon Peace National Geopark
is a vast plateau made by lava which
can be spotted in the area as well.
these rocks sink lower into the land creating
separated from the sea. Although separated
spurted out from low countryside
However, birds are not the only visitors
a round-shaped crater which is Yongneup.
from the sea, lagoons are unique in that they
hills. Here, the Daema-ri and Hagal-ri
to Gangwon Peace National Geopark.
Here, water would gather in a pool to create
fully retain features of the ocean. Songjiho
areas are famous for what are known
The Daeamsan Yongneup swamp
a high moor where exotic flora began to
is one lagoon that can be found within the
as “Saemtong.” Saemtong refers to hot
located in Yanggu-gun is known as
flourish. But there is one more interesting
Gangwon Peace National Geopark. Located
spring water which flows from the
a “heaven of plants.” To plants that
fact regarding this composition.
in Goseong county, Songjiho is home to
ground even during the cold winter.
thrive on water, the Yongneup swamp
Generally, when plants die, they rot and
not only fresh water fish and brackish
of the Korean War. However, at
Thus, a natural spring pond is made all
is like an oasis in the mountains.
decompose. However, the plants inhabiting
organisms commonly found in lakes, but
serves as a habitat for migratory birds, providing hot
the same time, images of peace
through the year, which is why it was
Therefore, colonies of plants such
Yongneup cannot decompose due to below
marine specimens from the ocean also
spring water and various kinds of grasslands in winter.
given its name, “Saemtong.” Basically,
as sphagnaceae, curvedutricle sedge,
zero temperatures continuing for more
coexist in this environment. The geological
water soaks into the shears of basaltic
spiraea, and geranium sibiricum make
than five months in a year, so they would
features of both the mountain and sea can
differential erosion; at the time of granite intrusion,
rock and flows underground until it is
this place their natural habitat, as well
just pile up. This creates a peat stratum. A
be explored here within Gangwon Peace
the surrounding rocks, metamorphosed by high
blocked by bed rock and lava bed which
as other rare plants such as gymnadenia
peat stratum refers to a layer of land that
National Geopark. But more importantly,
mountainous rims while granites (abyssal rocks) which
makes it burst up to the surface. The
conopsea, gentiana jamesii, and
is made by a mixture of non-decomposed
this land that was once ruined by war, has
temperature underground is consistent
droseraceae. In addition, phytoplankton
plants and clay stacking up below water in a
now become a community of coexistence
at about 15℃ all year round unlike the
and the golden eagle, another natural
swamp or pond. This layer usually builds up
for various flora and fauna. This is why this
herself is the first to herald echoes
surface temperature, which allows
monument, have been spotted here as
at a pace of 1㎜ on average per year. However,
site is so significant in its role as a symbol of
of peace throughout this region.
warm water to flow in winter and cool
well. Other species that dwell in this
the deepest point in Yongneup swamp is
peace and reconciliation.
Geopark and Ecology
Cheorwon is a city that remembers
is still shadowed by the wounds of
war. This is because it is situated
around the DMZ (Demilitarized
Zone), which remains a symbol
dwell in this land, which is why
Gangwon Peace National Geopark
has been developed to represent
reconciliation and peace, not
conflict or cold war. Mother Nature
1_Yongneup : located at Daeamsan, Yanggu-gun,
Gangwon-do, Yongneup is a wetland on a high moor
and the first one in Korea registered on the list of the
Ramsar Convention.
2_Cherwon Plain (Habitat for migratory birds) :
designated as Natural Monument No. 245, the plain
3_Haean Basin (a.k.a. The Punchbowl) : one of the
representing eroded basins of Korea formed by
temperature during the intrusion, turned into
are vulnerable to weathering formed into a basin.
1
2
3
Hwajinpo(lagoon)
Riverine wetland of
Yangeuidae
Cheorwon Lava Plateau
Block stream of
Unbongsan(Mt.)
Haean basin
Seonangbawi(rock)
Tafoni of
Neungpadae
Jinburyeong
Yongneup (mountain pass)
Yanggubaekto Yongneup
Hwacheon (kaolin)
(wetland) of Daeamsan(Mt.)
Sambuyeon Falls
Granulite
Fluvial terrace
Ogungugok(valley) Complex
of Soyanggang(river)
Yonghwasan(Mt.)
Jiktang Falls
Basalt ravine of Daegyocheon
Dootayeon
(plunge pool)
Goseok(rock)
Biraeam(rock)
Pothole of
Naerincheon(stream)
3
觀
The red gate really stood out in a conspicuous
by world renowned travel guide, Lonely Planet, which is deemed the bible
manner at the center of this peaceful
for backpackers. Visitors can expect to find many spectacles not found on
mountainous village.
mainland in Ulleungdo, just by the fact that it ranks as one of the top ten
On the path to Cheonbu 2(i)-ri from
islands of the world. Together with Jeju Isalnd, Ulleungdo is the result of
Hongmun-dong, we encountered another
volcanic activity crafted into perfection by nature. However, Ulleungdo
distinct sight as conspicuous as the red gate. It
and its brother island, Dokdo, have quite different scenery than that of
was the monorail. You may think why would
Jeju. Located in Namhae (the Southern Sea), Jeju emits a mellow feeling
someone put a monorail on this remote island?
with its oval shape, whereas Ulleungdo Dokdo give off an air of grandeur
But once you remember that Ulleungdo is
with its many cliffs and oddly formed stones.
a volcanic island, the answer soon becomes
Geotrekking is a new and interesting way to discover the many geosite
apparent. The monorail at Cheonbu 2(i)-ri
Ulleungdo Dokdo have to offer. Course One which begins at the Dodong
which is the last leg of the trekking course is
Coast Promenade and ends at Jeodong by way of Haengnam Lighthouse
used for farming. In Ulleungdo there is almost
is Ulleungdo’s most representative scenic trail. Course Two offers travelers
no flatland, which means farmers must hike
an opportunity to enjoy both the thick forest and ocean scenery, starting
up and down the mountainside to tend to
at Naesujeon and winding down to the Seokpo Old Trail. Course Three
their crops. Hence, it is impossible for these
follows Taeharyeong Old Trail which retains much of the old atmosphere
farmers to travel up and down the mountain
of Ulleungdo and Course Five treks through Namyang Old Trail which
with farm tools on their backs all the time. So,
allows visitors a view into the everyday lives of the islanders. Ulleungdo
they needed to build this monorail for farming
Dokdo’s unique landscape is captivating from any path taken, but this
purposes. The monorail does not require
time we chose Course Four, to see the inner heart of Ulleungdo.
any engineering work which would collapse
It took three hours for our boat which departed Pohang to arrive at
and reshape the landscape. It can be installed
Dodong Port in Ulleungdo. Along the coastline, our attention was
without altering the terrain, which is why it has
immediately drawn to the huge cliffs and sharp pointy rocks, which
become an invaluable agricultural machine for
appears on the horizon of the
is an astonishing sight not seen on the mainland. Putting behind us
the farmers on this volcanic island.
endless sea. This irregular five-
this extraordinary first impression of the island, we headed for Nari
Because Ulleungdo has so many attractions
Observatory which is the starting point for Course Four. Awaiting us was
that cannot be found anywhere else, visitors
the only flatland in Ulleungdo, the Nari Basin and Albong. We arrived at
do not hesitate to board a boat to Ulleungdo
Nari Observatory after about an hour of trekking through the hills, where
despite it being far from the mainland. The
before us unfolded a beautiful basin surrounded by mountains with a
same goes for our land, Dokdo. Ulleungdo
conspicuous peak rising up at the center, known as Albong. We landed on
Dokdo National Geopark has timeless natural
an island, but the scene before us was not like one.
beauty which has been preserved by the
How can a basin be made in Ulleungdo which is an island full of tall and
islanders through their wisdom to adapt.
not found on land. The islands
sharp rocks everywhere? Well, the Nari Basin is collapsed terrain near the
Travelers looking for a different kind of
here are Ulleungdo and Dokdo;
crater of where there was volcanic explosion. This kind of landform is
landscape should walk the paths of Ulleungdo
called a caldera, and Albong which is the peak at the center of Nari Basin,
Dokdo and feel its volcanic energy.
Geopark and Scenery
Ulleungdo is introduced as “the most interesting secret island on earth,”
The Gift of Nature
Found at Ulleungdo
and Dokdo
Ulleungdo Dokdo
National Geopark
After a long boat ride from the
mainland, a majestic island
angled island has almost no
flat land, and its coastline is
an array of steep cliffs. The
deep blue sparkle of the East
Sea gives it a mystical aurora
ageless beauties forged since
was made by volcanic activity after the caldera was formed. In geology, this
the beginning of time.
is known as a double volcano structure. In other words, the first eruption
created the caldera which is Nari Basin, and another eruption occurred in
the same spot later which made the peak, Albong.
Moving on and leaving this extraordinary spectacle behind us, we continued
Samseon Rock
up a steep path. Immediately, we could feel the rough terrain of the island
Elephant Rock
Taeha Trail &
Daepoonggam
Gwaneumdo
and Seommok coast
Jukam Mongdol
Yongchulso Beach
Jukdo
Songgot Peak
Old man Peak
Al Peak
below our feet. Most of the terrain here is made up of trachyte, which
Samhyeongie gulbawi
Hwangtogumi
Crane Port
Beach
Ulleung Primitive
Forest - Seongin Peak
Mushroom Rock
Bongnae
Waterfall
Jeodong Coast
Dokdo
Sutdolbawi
Cheonjanggul
Doklipmunbawi
is a rough rock with a rugged surface. Many geological attractions at
Ulleungdo Dokdo National Geopark evolved out of trachyte, and since
Ulleungdo was made about 65 million years ago, Course Four was like
time traveling, as it had us walking along rocks made from that time. As
Dodong Coast
Noodle Rock
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1_Jeodong Esplanade : one of the geosite in UlleungdoDokdo National Geopark with great accessibility and scenic
the fascination of time travel began to dissipate, we arrived at a village
beauty of nature
known as Hongmun-dong (Red Gate Village) for the red gate at its center.
2_Elephant Rock : Originally Elephant Rock was a part of
Turtle rock and Juniper
regeneration areas
the main island of Ulleungdo, but later it separated due to
erosion by the waves.
3_Cheonjanggul Cave : located on Dongdo Island in Dokdo-ri,
it is a sea cave with basaltic columnar joints and is formed in
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a well shape so it is speculated to have been a crater.
Geopark and Habitat
活
Beautiful habitat of
life and nature
Jeju Island
National Geopark
The volcanic island of Jeju
that cannot be seen on the
The islanders of Jeju chose coexistence
has such diverse geological
mainland. The volcanic terrain
as their way of life on this barren
resources that the entire island
which has been preserved in its
itself can be considered a
original form attracts many visitors
museum of natural history. The
to the beautiful island. Then what
Jeju Island National Geopark
about the locals? What would the
in Korea to be recognized by UNESCO
begins with Mt. Hallasan, the
life of an islander be like? Let’s
as a Global Geopark, designated
tallest mountain in South Korea
take a look into the lives of the
and extends down to the rock
islanders who have learned to
formations along the lower
coexist with the natural elements of
coastline. It boasts of geological
the island. They are what make Jeju
the islanders learned to adapt to the
and geomorphological features
a more attractive destination.
geological elements of the island.
volcanic landscape. They decided to
accept nature as it is. Traces of early life
on the island can be found at “GeoVillage.” Jeju Island, which was the first
six villages near famous geological
*Offer of picture : Jeju Tourism Organization
locations as “Geo-Villages.” Among
them, Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri is a
unique location bearing witness to how
1, 2_Jeju batdam : a showcase of Jeju natives’
land that could be farmable. Then, after
cultivating barren soil into arable land and building
leveling the land, they built stone walls
Located in the Manjanggul cave
a rock fence against the wind.
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the leveling work. The walls were stacked
of the Jeju Island National Geopark,
in a disorderly fashion because the shapes
Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri is synonomous
of the rocks were all different. However,
with unique geology. Being a village
this provided protection to the soil
situated upon a lava tube, the area is full
and seeds from the strong winds. Also,
of unique geology and topology such as
research shows that the wind weakens as
interesting rock formations and spring
water. However, because of this geological
characteristic, Gimnyeong·Woljeong-
Manjanggul lava tube
Gotjawal Forest
it passes through the crevices of the stone
Seongsan Ilchulbong tuff cone
wall. This is what is called a wobble effect.
Mt. Hallasan
In addition, inside the batdam, another
ri was short of arable land. The land
wall is constructed. Another secondary
was covered with rocks and beneath the
surface was only rockbed, which meant a
miracle would be needed to grow crops
wall is built lower than the outerwall,
Suweolbong tuff ring
Jeju Jungmun Daepo
Coast columnar joints
Mt. Sanbangsan
Yongmeori Tuff Ring
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
Seogwipo Formation
and a furrow is dug out. This functions
as a waterway. However, the waterways
on the land.
In fact, in the case of Gimnyeong-ri, only
4.14㎢ out of 19.93㎢ is arable land. The
situation is no different for Woljeong-ri
at Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri are unique.
Usually, waterways carry water used to
soak and permeate into the soil. However,
the waterways at Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri
where only 2.3㎢ of land is farmable out
work in the opposite fashion. It is to send
of a total 6.67㎢. Soil is another reason
for the lack of arable land. The soil of Jeju
Island is often referred to as “floating land
that blows in the wind.” This dirt found
on Jeju Island which is easily blown away
in the wind is called, “volcanic ash soil.”
Jeju Island has persistent strong winds, so
the volcanic ash soil made farming very
water out, not in.
This is due to the geological features of
Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri. Most fields in
this area are located on top of base rock
which makes natural drainage difficult.
Therefore, the natives needed to devise
a waterway which could carry water
out, to ensure that water would not
difficult by failing to grip the roots of a
gather in puddles and potentially spoil
plant firmly.
the crop. In other words, the waterways
The people of Gimnyeong·Woljeong-
in Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri are actually
ri had to use their wits to survive in this
kind of natural environment. One prime
a drainage system. This wisdom has
allowed Gimnyeong-ri to account for
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*Offer of picture : Jeju Tourism Organization
way of living that seeks a harmony with nature by
with the rocks that were picked out from
district which is a famous attraction
example of their wisdom is “batdam”
(field walls). First, the villagers found
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80% of all large onion productions
with an average diameter of 8㎝, and
the villagers of Woljeong-ri are able to
produce scallions as well. Batdam also
contributes to the creation of a beautiful
landscape. Black basalt stone walls create
a boundary where within it bright yellow
rape flower and green crops create a
colorful artistic scene which resembles
patchwork wrapping cloth.
Nature created the land, but the people
of Gimnyeong·Woljeong-ri used their
wisdom to coexist with their given
environment while preserving the natural
elements as much possible. The wisdom
to coexist with nature makes the people
of Jeju Island as beautiful as the natural
scenery of the island itself.
史
Geopark and History
Here we are at the Age of Bronze.
Gigantic rocks are found here and there
in the middle of the Yeongsan River in
Hwasun-gun, Jeollanam-do and plains
in the upper region of the Boseong
Mudeungsan Area
National Geopark
Houses of geosites with
living history
River. They are laid in a fashion that
a rock slab is placed over a low-lying
stone, which is a classic example of a
prehistoric tomb, Goindol. Even roughly
measured, each rock weighs over 100
tons approximately. Now it feels real that
Mudeungsan Area
National Geopark
Korea alone accounts for nearly 40% of
Representing geological and
around B.C. 10, most people dwelled
geomorphological features in
in a dugout hut built at the low hills
the world’s total dolmens. Yet, how can
such a great number of colossal dolmens
be concentrated in one site?
In the Age of Bronze estimated
looking down the river. It is the time
the southwestern part of the
when agriculture has begun, given the
Korean Peninsula, Mudeungsan
excavation of Crescent-shaped Stone
Area National Geopark is full
Knives, adzes, and hoes. Interestingly,
of geosites with historical
most of the excavated relics are made
of rocks available in nearby places. The
connections. Probably because
dolmens found in Hwasun is made
the area was located near
of tuff. Tuff, a type of rock made of
residential districts, the vestiges
volcanic ash, sand, gravel ejected from
supplied porcelains to the royal palace
and specialization of 39 air-hole sites in it.
1_Seoseokdae : as one of Mudeungsan’s columnar
of our ancestors̓ living which
year of porcelains can be estimated
a vent during a volcanic eruption and
by the investigation of engraving
and central government offices during
cemented afterwards, has layers thus is
Also, Jusangjeolli Cliff (columnar
as opposed to Ipseokdae in a column shape. This rare
techniques and a sedimentary layer.
the Joseon period.
natural heritage reveals the secrets of the formation of
easily cut into a wide plate shape. This is
jointing), a signature attraction in
Chunghyo-dong yoji (klin site) has a
Other sites in Mudeungsan area have also
Mudeungsan is a geosite documented
rocks and weathering process.
why dolmens in Hwasun are in a plate
still remain intact. The place
high archaeological value since it has
been recorded in literatures of the Joseon
shape. The site has been designated as
in history. According to the journal of
is where a variety of historic
kept the traces of transitions from
period. Among them, air-holes are a
UNESCO World Heritage thanks to its
“Seoseokgyubong” wrriten by Kwon,
Buncheong to white porcelain.
historic geosite listed on “Yuseoseukrok”, a
favourable conservation status and the
Geukhwa, a civil official in the early
The majority of excavated relics were
journal of Mudeungsan mountain hiking
quarry field discovered together at the
Joseon period, the cliff was described as
Buncheong. Buncheong uses the same
written by Ko, Gyungmyeong, a civil
foot of a nearby mountain.
follows; “One is looking up to the sky,
basic clay as Goryeo celadon which is
official in the mid-Joseon period. The air-
While Hwasun Dolmen Site is where
one is looking down to the land, one is
made of clay minerals. The difference
holes refer to holes through which hot
you can take a peek inside ancient living
lying down, one is rising up, one is in a
between the two is that, after being
air vented from between the rocks spurts.
related to rocks, Chunghyo-dong site at
cluster, and one is single-standing. It is
formed into a shape, Buncheong is
There is no clear explanation for the
the north of Mudeungsan is a geosite
several hundred Choks (an old unit of
slipped white with filtered white clay.
phenomenon yet, but one possible theory
where you can learn about a history of
measurement, app. 30cm) high and four
That’s why it is named Buncheong -
is that it is a release of the heat generated
living with earth.
sides of it look like a carved jade.”
bun, white powder in Korean.
in the process of cold air compression
Introduced to the public by the
Mudeungsan Area National Geopark
Located near Mudeungsan where clay,
between the rocks. Air-holes have been
excavation in 1991, the area is a klin
abounds in geosites intertwined with
water and wood were available anytime,
found in other areas such as Jinan in
site of the Joseon period. Upon the
our life. The geopark has been walking
Chunghyo-dong was endowed with the
Jeonbuk Province and Cheongson in
excavation, the total of 4 klins were
with our history, presenting to us more
best environment for a kiln site. It is also
Gyeongbuk Province before, however,
discovered, and, in particular, a 3 meter
convenience in life and the beauty of
close to the sea, which makes it easier to
Mudeungsan air holes are the first
thick sedimentary layer underneath
nature. Such history is in progress, still
transport offerings to the royal palace in
found 800m above sea level. Hence,
clearly shows a series of transitions in
breathing with us and giving us rest and
Hanyang (what is today Seoul). Actually,
Mudeungsan Area National Geopark
porcelain making. Generally, the making
lessons.
the site was one of the royal kilns which
plans for a new project on conservation
was in harmony with natural
terrain from the prehistoric time
sites are alive from the Age of
Bronze to the Joseon period.
Shall we time travel to the site?
Chunghyodong
Clay Mineral Site
Mudeungsan Wind-hole
Mudeungsan Deoksan Talus
Gwangju granite
Jeungsimsa
andesite
Saeinbong(Peak)
Seaseokdae Columns
Ipseokdae Columns
Jangbuljae
Seoyuri Dinosaur Fossil Site
Yunpilbong or
Sinseondae and
Ahnyang cave
Eoksaepyeongjeon
Uisangbong(Peak)
Baekasan
Limestone Cave
Simujigi Waterfall
Jeokbyeok
Gwangseokdae
Columns Mudeungsan Top of line 3 peaks
Jigong Talus (Cheonwangbong/Jiwangbong
/Inwangbong)
Baekma(While horse) Ridge
Manyeonsa Precambrian Granitic gneiss
Hwasun Dolmen Site(Jangdong Tuff)
Unjusa Stratifide Tuff
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joints, it is in a screen wall shape due to less weathering
2_Hwasun Dolmen Site : designated as National Historic
Site No. 410, a total of 596 dolmens remain. The one built
during the Age of Bronze, is made of Jangdong tuff.
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*Offer of picture : Seo-gu office, Busan Metropolitan City
樂
game. It is a novel leisure activity which
eyes. When you walk into it, you will see
allows you to enjoy the whole area of
that the entire wall is made of glass. Over
the geopark while hunting for cached
the glass window, a bird flies into the
treasures with the help of a GPS locator.
wetlands made of sand. One girl moves
How to play it is simple and easy. After
binoculars tracing the bird’s movement.
locating the cached item, you should hide
Children are waiting in a queue
back a new item of the similar or higher
behind the girl. Also spotted is a father
value, period. Of course, it doesn’t sound
enthusiastically explaining something to
easy to find hidden items in such an
his daughter at an model exhibition of
extensive area. However, there’s no need
Busan
National Geopark
fish.
to worry because clues will be offered. Just
At Nakdong Estuary Eco-Center located
click the geopark’s URL (geoparks.busan.
in Eulsukdo, diverse hands-on programs
go.kr) and you can find the coordinate
and exhibitions take place. Furthermore,
of the cached spot. At present, hidden
you may observe the most representative
geocaches are waiting to be found in 10
̔Dynamic̛ must be the word
site of delta in Korea. Literally, the delta
geosites in Busan out of 12 (excluded sites
refers to a landform in a triangle shape
are Oryukdo Island and Baegyangsan Mt.).
formed by deposited sediments at the
If Geocaching makes you feel as if you
mouth of the river. The eco center is
were an accomplished explorer, a Cloud
located at the mouth of the river where
Walkway installed in Songdo Peninsula
the delta is formed by nature. A lot of
will make you feel dizzy. Having opened
visitors to Nakdong Estuary Eco-Center
in Jun 2015, it is a 104 meter long and
are attracted by sandbanks, sand dunes,
2.3 meter wide walk. Yet, walking on this
lagoons developed around Eulsukdo delta
path may give you dizzy feelings rather
area.
than leisurely feelings since the walk road
However, the beauty of Nakdong Estuary
is hanging over the sea waves. However,
is in somewhere else. It is in the fact that
walking along the Cloud Walkway which
the estuary is growing progressively.
was built quite strong, you will soon
Sitting in the mouth of the river, the area
forget about the dizziness as the scenic
undergoes radical geomorphological
panorama of the Southern Sea comes
changes. For instance, silt brought down
into view. One of the great spectacles there
by the river piles up and crumbles in a
is Dadaepo Formation standing along
repeating manner by the waves of the
the coast, formed 80 million years ago. In
Southern Sea and such actions affect the
front of your very eyes are unfolded wave-
size of sandbanks.
cut rocks and fossil-like remains by the
You can discover vibrant Earth at the
action of currents. Besides, you can enjoy
estuary which is always in motion.
unique land forms and scenic views in
Nakdong Estuary Eco-Center operates
the course of geological eco trail which
hands-on experience programs which
connects Songdo Beach to Amnam Park.
allow elementary school students to grasp
The effort of Busan National Geopark
changes of living nature by engaging
never ends in offering only stunning views
them in excursions to an estuary,
of nature, but helps visitors understand
wetlands and mud flats.
and experience geology by engaging
Currently at Busan National Geopark,
them in many learning opportunities.
one of the most-talked about adventure
Busan is where urban life and nature are
programs is available – Geocaching.
wonderfully harmonized. Busan National
The newly coined word combined geo,
Geopark in there will let you have both
meaning Earth or land, and cache,
educational benefits and fun together,
referring to a hiding place or storing.
which is found nowhere else.
Geopark and Experience
A rectangle-shaped building catches your
Home of fun and
exciting adventures
that describes Busan best.
The city is full of dynamic
charms backed by the
convenient infrastructures
vested in the second largest
city of Korea and the natural
environment surrounded by
the sea. In particular, Busan
National Geopark offers lots
of opportunities for visitors
to explore unique geological
and geomorphological
features in Busan Bay where
urban areas and nature, and
the land and the sea are all in
harmony.
Geumjeongsan
Mountain
Baekyangsan
Mountain
Jangsan
Mountain
Orbicular Gabbro
Igidae
Nakdonggang
Estuary
Songdo
Peninsula
Oryukdo Islets
Dudo
Molundea
Dusong
Peninsula
Taejongdae
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1_Songdo Cloud Walkway : hanging over Songdo
sea, it is a 104 meter long and 2.3 meter wide
walkway. A view of 80 million year old Dadaepo
Formation from it will take your breath away.
Geocaching is similar to a treasure hunt
2_Nakdong Estuary : the delta formed between the
Nakdong River and the South Sea shows diverse
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land forms of sand such as sand bars, sand dunes,
lagoons.
Geopark and Education
學
Where question
marks are changed to
exclamation points
Cheongsong
National Geopark
How is a valley made at the
foot of a mountain? Where
do rocks that are so white that
they actual look bluish come
from? How did the rocks grow
so tall towards the sky? Why
do some rocks have holes?
These are just a few of the
questions National Geoparks
pose at us. The splendor of
the beautiful landscape first
captivates our hearts, but soon
curiosity about its mysterious
origin begins to settle in our
minds. Cheongsong National
Geopark satisfies this curiosity
through educational and
experience programs.
“This is Juwangsan Mountain, a major
explained in a fun and easy way through
scenic spot of Cheongsong National
interpretation. Cheongsong National
Geopark. Juwangsan Mountain is
Geopark’s interpretation program
constructed of tuff, which is rock
is also interesting because it offers
composed of volcanic detritus fused
archaeological, cultural, historical, and
together by heat. Do you see that rock?
artistic content as well.
That is Giam Tuff Cliff, the landmark
Interpreter Kim Gyeonghee stresses the
attraction of Juwangsan Mountain.
importance of such an interpretation
Giam is a huge rock featuring a vertical
program. “Today I led a group of sixty
columnar jointing formation and
year old visitors who are familiar with
sheeting joint patterns with multiple
Juwangsan Mountain from their previous
layers stacked together like an
onionskin ....”
visits. I admit I was a little bit nervous
Interpreter Kim Gyeonghee of
However, after the tour, they told me the
Cheongsong National Geopark leads
interpretation helped them appreciate
a group of elderly visitors aged in
even more the beautiful features of
their sixties. This is not the first visit to
Juwangsan Mountain, which were only
Juwangsan Mountain for these visitors.
superficial to them before the tour.”
Although they have come to Juwangsan
Furthermore, Cheongsong National
Mountain several times before
Geopark changes the content of its
recreationally, today they have requested
interpretation program according to the
the assistance of a geopark interpreter to
participants. For instance, in a group of
know more detail about the landscape.
children, the interpreter would explain
Starting from Giam, the interpreter
geology as if telling a children’s story.
leading the group continued to provide
Geopark interperter Shim Yeonjin says,
of the region as well. In other words,
you come to “see, eat, and play,” but is
detailed commentary of the geology and
“when I knew that the group would
travel packages that combine tourism
rather more of a field trip that includes,
topology of Juwangsan Mountain as the
consist of 16 people from four families,
and educational features are the ones
“seeing, touching, feeling, learning,
Its deep holes were formed in the underlying bedrock
group continued on its path.
I asked the fathers to make models
that are popular these days. To take
and experiencing.” Even today, the
by weathering and erosion over a long period of time
All year round, visitors come to
and tried my best to help the kids
Cheongsong National Geopark as
interpreters at Cheongsong National
Juwangsan Mountain to enjoy its many
understand in an easy way more about
an example, visitors are interested in
Geopark are busy escorting visitors
Juwangsan, you may run into many different geosite
attractions such as the Sudalrae flower
the geology of Cheongsong by using
questions such as, when the stratum was
throughout the nooks and crannies of
like strange rock formations, Yongchu Falls, and
blossoms in Spring, the roaring white
cartoon characters.” The program is
made, what the soil consists of, as well
the park, helping them truly understand
waters of the valley in Summer, and the
not only about providing information,
as the different types of flora and fauna
the vast marvels of the landscape.
colorful foliage in Autumn. However,
but is focused on making it interesting
that live in it. Instead of superficial
its unique rock formations are what
for participants considering their
tours, people find more interesting
make Juwangsan Mountain famous.
age, occupation, and overall level of
educational tours which allow them to
Like a wall of folding screens, the rocks
understanding. Some examples of
understand the area better. This type of
are what truly give the mountain its
making a fun program include, building
travel also leads to stimulation of the
graceful shape. Cheongsong National
a stone tower to make wishes, observing
local economy. This is probably why
Geopark is full of various geosite
wild moss near the waterfalls, taking a
Cheongsong is loved by so many people
around Juwangsan Mountain which
ride on the mountain bike course, and
and called an “eco-museum.”
giving them geological interpretation.
Geopark interpretation is offered
was formed more than 80 million
observing lumps of massive rock.
years ago. So, Cheongsong National
The interpretation program offered at
at all six national geoparks in Korea,
Cheongsong National Geopark also fits
not only Cheongsong. Visitors learn
Geopark promotes and educates
well with recent travel trends. People
to appreciate the value of geological
interpretation programs. For instance,
want more than to go on a trip where
resources through explanations given
earth science topics that could be rather
they look at scenery, take a few photos,
by professional geopark interpreters
difficult to understand such as the
and come back. Instead, travelers
who have completed relevant training
stratigraphic nature of Cheongsong
prefer a tour that offers explanation
courses. The Geopark Interpretation
or the formation process of Giam are
of the ecological and cultural aspects
Program is not a tour package where
visitors of its true charm through its
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Fold Structures
of Songgangri
Pacheon Orbicular
Granite
Baekseoktan
(White-stoned Stream)
Sinseong Dinosaur
Footprints
located on Andeok-myeon in Cheongsong-gun and
considered as one of the 8 Cheongsong scenic views.
following the flow of the valley.
2_Juwangsan : a gorge near Yongchu Falls. At
Geupsudae Columnar Joint.
1
2
Cheongsong Spherulitic
Rhyolite(Flowerstone)
Dalgi mineral
spring site
Noruyongchu valley
Yongchu Falls
Yeonhwa Cave
Giam Cliff
Jubangcheon Peperite
Mananjaam Cliff
Juwang Cave
Nasil magma mixing zone
Yongyeon Falls
Geupsudae Columnar Joint
Jeolgol Gorge
Jusan Pond
Beopsu pottery stone
Byeongam Granite Cliff
Sedimentary
Formation
at Bangho
Pavilion
1_Baekseoktan (White-stoned Stream) : it is
Sedimentary
Formation at
Cheongsong Natural
Recreation Forest
Cheongsong Ice Valley
Surakri Columnar Myeonbongsan
Joint
Caldera
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29
30 31
News
NATIONAL GEOPARKS
OF KOREA NEWS
The first half of 2015 was quite eventful for National Geoparks Secretariat with hosting of
a general meeting of Korea Geoparks Network and Geopark Interpreter Training Program.
The news headlines include Certification of the Imjin·Hantan River as National Geopark to
be held in the second half of 2015 and upcoming National Geopark Symposium.
01
02
03
04
Certification of the Imjin·Hantan
River as National Geopark
The initiatives in cultivation and
evaluation of geological heritage in
Chungcheong area
1st National Geoparks of Korea
Scientific article Contest
The 3rd National Geoparks
Symposium
Pocheon city and Yeoncheon county in Gyeonggi
National Geoparks Secretariat initiated the
National Geoparks Secretariat holds the 1st National
The 3rd National Geoparks Symposium is to
province have initiated a plan to register the area of
cultivation of geological heritage in 2014. It divided
Geoparks of Korea Scientific article Contest for
be held from October 14 to 16, 2015 in Forest
the Imjin· Hantan River as a national geopark. The
the nation into 5 areas to conduct the project in
Inventory Center in Cheongsong County,
area, formed from basaltic lava flows, boasts of a
one area after another. The aim of the project is to
college students and graduate students in the nation.
The contest areas are as follows; △cultivation and
variety of geological features such as extraordinary
utilize the outcomes as primary materials for the
Two hundred participants will gather at the
cliffs and valleys and a picturesque harmony
establishment of geoparks and geotourism.
conservation of geological heritage △geotourism
of geoparks △IT of geoparks and the use of GIS
between landforms created by lava and rivers. Top
Launched in 2014 in Seoul Metropolitan area, the
(Geographic Information System) △sustainable
geoparks in local development. The symposium
few geosite in this area include Bidulginangpokpo
project is underway in Chungcheong area this year.
growth of geoparks.
features guest speakers’ speeches, interpreter
Falls which shed light on the beginning of the
The investigated geological resources will be
Top 6 papers will be awarded by the Minister of
competitions, geotourism and presentation and
Hantan River’s geological formation, Auraji pillow
evaluated by specific criteria for their utilities as
Environment (2,000,000 won prize), the Chairman of
discussion on global geoparks. Also included
lava generated from underwater volcanic eruption
geosite. In addition, the cultivated resources are
Korea National Park Service (1,000,000 won prize), the
is a post-symposium excursion to geosites in
and Jaein Falls running between columnar joints.
expected to be utilized as part of geo-trail and geo-
President of the Geological Society of Korea (500,000
Cheongsong area such as Juwangsan cliffs
By a mutual agreement between Pocheon city and
tourism programs.
won prize), the President of the Korean Geographical
of strangely shaped rocks, Jusanji Pond and
Yeoncheon county, both parties will work together
Society (500,000 won prize), the President of the
Baekseoktan Valley.
on the area’s designation as a national geopark for
Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources
the second half of 2015, making joint efforts in a
(500,000 won prize), and the President of Korea
management plan, tourism, education, promotion
Environment Institute(500,000 won prize).
and exploration program as well as the use of
The secretariat plans to hold a scientific article
facilities in the area.
contest every year to draw the attention of academia
*Offer of picture : Gyeonggi Research Institute
Gyeongsangbuk-do Province.
symposium to discuss the roles and visions of
to geopark and build an academic archive on it.
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30
31
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31
Focus
section 2
NATIONAL GEOPARKS OF WORLD
A beautiful blue planet which has been through the changes of time and nature, the Earth,
embraces 111 Global Geoparks. Each of them has treasured history of the beginning through
the ages. Let’s look into what’s new with Global Geoparks such as upcoming 4th AsiaPacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Symposium and the development of Global Geoparks in
response to the introduction of UNESCO official program.
<
33
Focus
The 4th APGN
Symposium in San’in
Kaigan
The 4th Asia-Pacific Geoparks
Network Symposium in
San’in Kaigan
Five days symposium with the theme of
‘Geopark: Networking and Society’
36 >
Report
The 2nd Symposium on
Developing Geoparks
within
East & Southeast
Asia region
아이슬란드
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1
2
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1
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1
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1
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5
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2022년까지
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1
38
Proposal
Direction for the Development
of National Geoparks
upon Official Launch of the
UNESCO Global Geoparks
Program
Name
he 4th Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network
T
Symposium in San’in Kaigan
Theme
Geopark: Networking and Society
Date
September 16-20, 2015
Place
oyooka City Hall and its vicinities and
T
Tottori University of Environmental Studies Website
http://apgn2015-eng.com/
브라질
1
우루과이
The 4th Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Symposium is to be held from September 16 to 20, 2015, in
San’in Kaigan Global Geopark, Japan with the theme of ‘Geopark: Networking and Society̓.
Following the previous symposium in 2013 in Jeju Island, the event presents a variety of programs in
Toyooka City Hall and its vicinities and Tottori University of Environmental Studies, Hyogo Prefecture.
Focus
San’in Kaigan Global
Geopark, Japan hosts the
4th Asia-Pacific Geoparks
Network (APGN)
Symposium
The symposium is to be held from September 16 to 20, 2015, for 5 days, offering a
plenary session, poster sessions and an excursion program. The poster sessions on
September 17 and 19 will address diverse agenda such as management and networking,
sustainable communities, geo-tourism and ocean and human living. The excursion
programs on September 18 and September 20 will take participants to several geosite of
San’in Kaigan Geopark staring from Kyotango City, Kyoto under the theme of ‘Ancient
kingdom and human lives developed on the shore terrace’.
In honor of hosting the function, Mr. Oike Kazuo, the chairman of organizing
committee greeted, “The objective of APGN Symposium is to provide networking
platforms. I hope that APGN members can broaden their networking horizons and
develop a further discussion on geoparks by sharing issues and challenges each region
faces.”
The Coordinator of APGN Mr. Ibrahim Komoo said “I believe that attendees will
benefit from the natural gifts of San’in Kaigan Geopark and networking opportunities
during the symposium. I look forward to having substantial discussions over the
sustainable development of local communities, which APGN stands up for.”
APGN consists of 42 regions out of 6 countries in the Asia-pacific region and
assembles in alternate years to discuss the case studies on earth science, conservation
and preservation of environment, cooperation with local communities, tourism and
stimulation of local economic growth and the vision of geoparks. San’in Kaigan Global
Geopark has been selected as the 4th host of the symposium following Jeju Island
Global Geopark, the previous host in 2013.
Secrets of the
Japanese Peninsula
hidden in San’in
Kaigan Global
Geopark
The San’in Kaigan Geopark stretches from Kyoto Prefecture through Hyogo Prefecture and Tottori
Prefecture, approximately 120 km long from east of Kyotango in Kyoto Prefecture to west of Tottori
in Tottori Prefecture. Its area is 2,458.44 ㎢, which is larger than Tokyo.
The 6th International UNESCO Conference on Geoparks which was held in Stonehammer Global
Geopark, Canada re-certified the area as a global geopark in September, 2014 through on-site
evaluation conducted in the prior month.
The key feature of San’in Kaigan Global Geopark is that it shows a variety of geological and
geomorphic properties which have been formed since the time when Japanese islands used to be a
part of the Asian continent.
You can discover lots of coastal topography and geological assets such as igneous rocks and strata
by East Sea formation about 25 million years ago and ria coast by changes in the level of East Sea or
crustal movements and sand dunes.
San’in Kaigan Global Geopark is the very place where all different forms of life are living in harmony
with nature and life, culture and history of human beings are breathing.
Making the most of its geological assets, the geopark campaigns for conservation of local heritage
and revitalization of local community through Geotourism.
Currently, total 36 regions are registered in Japanese Geoparks Network based on December 2014.
Geosite in San’in Kaigan Global Geopark
01_Tottori Sand Dunes
The Tottori Sand Dunes are coastal sand dunes located near the city of Tottori in Tottori Prefecture, Japan. They
stretch along the east coast of Tottori City for 16 km and 2.4km from south to north, the largest dune system in
Japan. The dunes were formed by the work of nature; ocean currents drew sand in the sea to seashores and the
prevailing wind blew the piled sand into inland area to create typical scenic views of coastal dunes. They were
designated as a natural monument of Japan and listed on Geology 100 selections of Japanese in 2007.
Directions: bus or taxi ride from JR Tottori station
02_Kasumi Kaigan Coast
The Kasmi Kaigan Coast is a rocky coast. The Kasumi bay is lined with numerous sea cliffs, sea caves and beautiful
scenery with strangely-shaped rocks. Among them, Yoroinozode, made of columnar joints and sheeting joints, is a
natural monument of Japan, and one of the Japanese scenic spots designated in 1938.
Directions: 20 minute walk from Kasumi station of JR San’in Main Line
Kasumi Kaigan Coast
02
Tottori Sand Dunes
01
03_Yokoo Rice Terraces
This unique area is called Rice Terraces, formed on 230m above sea level in Iwami Cho where Uradome coast and
05
Kyotango
Sand Dunes
melon
Yumura Hot Springs
04
03
Yokoo Rice Terraces
Iwai Hot Spring are located. The area was built by land-clearing during the Edo Era (1603-1876) and now extends to
25 ha. A fantastic landscape created by the mixture of terraced rice fields, villages and hills enthroned the area as
the most beautiful rice field in Tottori Prefecture and even initiated a fan club dedicated to terraced rice fields which
campaigns for an exchange program with urban areas and conservation of nature.
Kyoto
Tottori Prefecture
Directions: 20 minute drive from JR Iwami Station
01_Tottori Sand Dunes
Hyogo Prefecture
04_Yumura Hot Springs
city of Tottori in Tottori Prefecture
San’in Kaigan Global
Geopark
A historic Yumura Hot Spring, located in Hyogo Prefecture, opened in 848 during the Heian Era of Japan. Located
in a mountain valley, it feels quiet but the 98 degree celsius of hot spring water gushes out steams which can be
observed even in cold winter in nearby rivers.
Directions: 25 minute bus ride from Hamasaka Station of JR San’in Main Line/Non-stop bus from Osaka, Kobe
02_Kasumi Kaigan Coast
03_Yokoo Rice Terraces
Kami-town in Hyogo Prefecture
Iwami Cho in Tottori Prefecture
05_The specialties of San’in Kaigan Global Geopark
The grains of sand in Tottori sand dunes are uniform in size and hardness so it is a great environment for root crops
such as sweet potatoes and Chinese yams to grow. Moreover, the dunes yield a plenty of melons and watermelons
thanks to easy drainage which controls water and fertilizers. Since the successful cultivation of Chinese shallot in
1914, local farmers have made every effort to become one of the largest producers of the vegetable in Japan.
04_Yumura Hot Springs
Mikata-district in Hyogo Prefecture
05_ Sand Dune Melons
Kyotango in Kyoto
APGN
33
34
35 36 37 38 39
33 34
35
36 37 38 39
Report
Korea’s initiatives on the certification
of Cheongsong as a global geopark
and discussion with UNESCO officials
for the issue
The 2nd Symposium
on Developing
Geoparks within
East & Southeast
Asia region
The 2nd Symposium on Developing Geoparks within East & Southeast Asia
region was held from July 22 to 24 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand with the aim
of expanding Global Geoparks in the region. Hosted by UNESCO and CCOP
(Coordinating Committee for Geoscience Programmes in East and Southeast
Asia), the symposium was attended by 60 officials from 7 countries and offered
programs with diverse topics such as the strategies for global geopark certification
and education on operations and managements of global geopark.
For better understanding of global geopark system, Dr. Patrick McKeever,
Executive Secretary of UNESCO IGCP (International Geoscience Program)
introduced the significance and history of geoparks, best practices in operation,
global geoparks as an official UNESCO program and GGN (Global Geopark
Network). Richard Watson, Geopark Manager at Marble Arch Caves Global
Geopark, Ireland, (the first global geopark in the world) talked about best
Morjabok potholes ▶
practices in the park’s education, research, tourism and geosites plus its present
status and vision in future. Dr. Ramasamy Jayakumar, Chief of UNESCO
Bangkok's Natural Sciences Unit, proposed basic concepts of geopark and
geotourism and its facilitation plans under the theme of ‘sustainable solutions’.
National Geopark Secretariat of Korea gave a keynote speech on ‘Geopark system
of Korea and its operation’, and shared experiences with the Southeast Asian
countries where the geopark system is yet to be established. Among the practices
presented on the operation of Korean geoparks, the attendees particularly noted
Korean geoparks system in which a site is certified and financially backed by
government as well as its mid-to long-term plan and Geo-brand. Moreover, the
secretariat discussed Cheongsong's application for global geopark certification
Dr. Patrick McKeever ▲
(Secretary of UNESCO IGCP)’s keynote speech
in 2015 and early invitation of field evaluation committee for the success in the
certification in 2016 as well as a reinforced role of Korea in expanding UNESCO
geopark program in the regions of Asia.
It was quite helpful to us because
we got the better understanding of
the overall application procedure
for the certification and tips on how
to promote and complement the
application of Cheongsong aspiring
geoparks through the meeting with
UNESCO officials
Dr. Ryu, Wansang at National Geoparks Secretariat said, “It was quite helpful to us
because we got the better understanding of the overall application procedure for
the certification and tips on how to promote and complement the application of
Cheongsong aspiring geoparks through the meeting with UNESCO officials”.
During the presentation on the initiatives in geopark certification in Mekong
Countries, speakers from Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand and the
Philippines showcased geological heritages and geopark candidate sites of their
countries. Also, Dr. Adichat Surinkum, Director of CCOP, chaired a group
Dr. Ryu, Wansang
National Geoparks Secretariat
discussion, letting Dr. Patrick McKeever, and Mr. Watson lead a Q&A session
Sandstone quarry field ▲
concerning the understanding of geopark system and the procedure and
guidelines for global geopark certification.
On July 23, after talking about cooperation plans among member nations, the
participants joined an excursion trip to Korat area, Thailand, a geopark candidate
site. The destinations were selected among approximately 50 geosites in Korat;
Morjabok pothole, gritstone quarry field, Khao Yai Tieng Peak, Sakaerat UNESCO
Biosphere Reserve, Dinosaur Excavation site and Korat Fossil Museum. Currently,
the only country which has a UNESCO-certified geopark among Mekong
Countries is Vietnam. UNESCO&CCOP holds an annual symposium in East and
Southeast Asia in an attempt to expand geopark system in the region.
모르자복 포트홀
33 34 35
36
37 38 39
33 34 35 36
37
38 39
proposal
Direction for the
Development of
National Geoparks
upon Official Launch
of the UNESCO
Global Geoparks
Program
In April 2015, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Initiative was adopted at the 196th Session
of the Executive Board of UNESCO. Once it is approved at the 38th Session of the General
Conference (November, 2015), Geoparks will become an official program of UNESCO
(IGGP: International Geoscience and Geopark Programme). Unless some unforeseen
event happens, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Initiative which has already been passed by
the Executive Board is expected to be promoted into an official program. With the official
launching of the International Geoscience and Geopark Programme, the interest of states,
and their efforts to register Geoparks are expected to be heightened and accelerated.
According to the “UNESCO Geopark Operational Guidelines” submitted to the
Executive Board, greater emphasis will be focused on the geological value of sites and
the certification criteria will be strengthened. For Korea, which currently has no Global
Geopark except for Jeju which was certified in 2010, these new changes in certification
criteria and procedure may pose to be a burden.
In this regard, Cheongsong which was certified as a National Geopark in 2014 is currently
preparing its application for UNESCO Global Geopark certification, which it plans to
submit in November of this year. Cheongsong is expected to be the first site to undergo
the UNESCO certification process after the official launch of the program. With respect to
this effort, the National Geoparks Secretariat of Korea is actively supporting Cheongsong’s
endeavor to satisfy the newly revised certification criteria together with experts from Korea
and abroad, because Cheongsong’s application will leave precedence to other geoparks in
their efforts for certification.
According to the Mid-Long Term Operation and Management Plan for National
Moon Changkyu
Manager, National Geoparks
Secretariat of Korea
Geoparks, the Ministry of Environment has set a goal to register 17
National Geoparks and 8 Global Geoparks by 2022. This goal was
established based on the willingness of local governments, efficient
allocation of territory, and the geographical distribution of geological
and geomorphological resources. The goal set by the Government
shows only half of our National Geoparks being certified as Global
Geoparks. However, currently all local governments with National
Geoparks in Korea including those in the process of certification,
have as their ultimate goal, UNESCO Global Geopark certification.
However, certain conditions must be met for National Geoparks
to apply for Global Geopark certification. For instance, a site must
first get approval from the National Geopark Committee to be a
candidate. Considering that only two sites per country are allowed
to apply for Global Geopark certification each year, competition
among the National Geoparks for candidacy is clearly foreseeable.
The positive effect of this competition would be more activities and
events evolving around Geoparks, but it could also mean a waste of
time and budget for Geoparks that fail to achieve candidacy.
Therefore, in the planning and design of Geoparks, local
governments should not aim for UNESCO Global Geopark
certification, but should rather focus on “supporting the local
economy through sustainable use,” which is the real purpose of
Geoparks. This would require active efforts on the part of local
| Status of Global Geoparks |
Current number of Global Geoparks by country
Iceland
Ireland
-Northern
Ireland
Ireland
Germany
1
Netherlands
United
Kingdom
1
1
2
5
Norway
1
6
1
2
1
5
10
Portugal
1
Spain
Morocco
Finland
Denmark
Czech Republic
France
4
1
Germany/Poland
9
Italy
4
Greece
3
1
Austria
1
1
Hungary
1
Roumania
Slovenia/Austria
8
Hungary/Slovakia
1
turkey
1
Croatia
1
Slovenia
31
china
Canada
locations
Global Geopark certification
target by 2022
1
Korea
1
1
2
7
japan
Vietnam
Malaysia
1
Indonesia
1
Brazil
1
governments and communities, especially, in first establishing robust
programs for tourism, promotion, and education. If geotourism is
able to gain momentum by developing unique travel packages based
on solid educational or sightseeing programs, the National Geopark
brand is all the local governments really need. UNESCO Global
Geopark certification follows only when these efforts and activities
are in place.
Recently, I visited Maesterazgo Cultural Park in Spain, one of the
four original parks that established the European Geoparks Network
(EGN) in 2001. The Aragon region in Spain, where the park is
located, resembles the rural situation in Korea. The land is barren
which makes farming difficult, and the young people have all moved
to the city, leaving only the old folk behind. However, from the
late 90’s, geologists and public officials in Spain, together with the
local community, began to develop geological sites in this area and
combined them with existing historic and cultural assets to create
new tourism resources. Interesting though is that although the park
has been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, it is difficult to
find any symbols or signage within the park which references to this
fact. Perhaps the local government lacked funding to develop the
infrastructure is one explanation that can be given. However, rather
than that, it seemed as if the people here sought value in the true
purpose of what a Geopark should be, rather than being occupied
about having the UNESCO brand.
It’s been 10 years since Maesterazgo Cultural Park has been
developed into a Geopark, but the effects of local development are
not distinctly noticeable yet. This of course could be attributable to
the fact that the location is so remote, and generally Spaniards are
quite relaxed people. However, significant time and effort has been
invested in geotourism activities such as cooperating with local
establishments and developing tourism and educational offerings.
Perhaps this explains why it seemed as if though local residents were
convinced that the Geopark would contribute to the local economy.
In particular, a Geopark official that I interviewed said with
confidence that he expects over two million visitors within the next
10 years.
In December 2012, Jeju Island along with Ulleungdo-Dokdo, were
designated as National Geoparks, and already within a span of two
years, a total of six National Geoparks have been certified. Even
now, many local governments are rushing to get certification. Korea,
although maybe not as relaxed as Spain, also needs to develop
Geoparks at a more moderate pace than it is doing now. Specifically,
ways to improve the livelihood of the local community through
Geoparks should be addressed. This is the ultimate purpose of
Geoparks and will also prove to be the shortcut to UNESCO Global
Geopark certification.
Uruguay
Moon Changkyu
Manager
33 34 35 36 37
38
39
33 34 35 36 37 38
39
A Visit to
Geopark
①
Tourism
e
rgenc
Conve
Geopark
section 3
GEOPARKS IN OUR LIFE
A cliff with arresting scenery, a valley with winding streams, and a rock hiding mysteries
inside - the views captured in geoparks have been always close to us. Here we focus on
geoparks projected in the integral part of our lives such as people, literature, art, and films.
41>
A Visit to Geopark ①
Oh Chang Hyeon,
Meeting with Director of
the Convergence Strategy
Department at the Jeju
Tourism Organization
Jeju
<
<
48
Look into Geoparks
Encounter with Yigidae
through the film
‘Haeundae’
Finding a path in ‘Convergence’
44
Oh
Chang Hyeon
Meeting with Director of
the Convergence Strategy
Department at the Jeju
Tourism Organization
One of the main keywords describing modern society is ‘convergence’. Our society has
A Visit to Geopark ②
Keum Dong Won,
An encounter with an artist
who paints nature
changed by the development of new fields as the boundaries of studies, industries,
technologies and other various categories have weakened. We met director Oh Chang Hyeon
of Jeju Tourism Organization who has been leading the value-added development movement
by creating ‘Geo-Brand,' the convergence of tourism, geoscience and mineral resources. We
talked about the possibilities of this convergence.
50>
Get the feel of Geopark
‘Rhapsody to nature’
Painter Yoo Youngkuk
Q. Hello. Thank you for accepting our
with other industries is a must. Medical
more important so as to improve the
interview request in the midst of your
tourism, rural sightseeing, cruise tour,
trickle-down effect of the economic
busy schedule. First of all, I would like
and 6th industry are all created by a
benefits derived from tourism.
to ask you about the main tasks of the
convergence between industries.
It has been four years since CSD was
Convergence Strategy Department
On the other hand, Jeju’s 1st and 2nd
launched. CSD is perhaps the very first
(here after referred to as ‘CSD’).
industries have been in a stagnation
public organization in Korea that was
Convergence has become a universal
phase for quite some time now. ‘Tourism,’
named using the word ‘convergence.’
sociocultural and technical trend,
a fast-growing sector for the economy,
You can think about it this way: that CSD
and tourism has reached its limit in
was the breakthrough for the crisis. It is
develops new products utilizing tourism-
developing new products and services
no exaggeration to say that every industry
oriented convergence among different
on its own. In order to develop a product
in Jeju incorporates tourism into its
industries so that the fruits of growth
fulfilling the needs of quickly changing
business model. In other words, tourism-
through tourism raises added value the
tourism trends, convergence of tourism
oriented convergence has become even
entire district. Recently, we have been
A Visit to
Geopark
①
scenery and the local products that
of national geoparks is continuously
reflect diverse cultural resources.
growing; however, it seems they only
Furthermore, “Geo-Brand” promotes
focus on getting the certification. There
the direct economic benefit of the local
are only commemorating events left
residents and popularizes the area
at the end. There are no follow up
through Geopark. Geo-Brand is a nexus
actions from local governments. The
of various brands in order to generate a
true pursuit of the geopark spirit is the
synergy effect of products.
conservation of natural resources and
Q. Jeju Island has received UNESCO Triple
Crown designation (Global Geoparks
Network, Natural World Heritage
Site, and World Network of Bioshpere
Reserve). When do you feel that the brand
value of UNESCO Triple Crown is actually
causing a difference? Would you tell me
Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone
how you are going to take advantage of
this designation for Jeju?
promoting the nexus of tourism with the
Q. In 2010, Jeju Island was certified by
Q. I know that Jeju Tourism Organization
Yes, Jeju is the place in the world
cosmetics industry, tourism with culture
UNESCO as the first Global Geopark in
Business Convergence Department
that has received these honorable
contents, tourism with water, local
Korea. Jeju also successfully extended
promotes a number of businesses that
designations. But I must say that
combine geological resources with
improvements can be made in the
networking tourism utilizing UNESCO
its authorization last year (2014). How
Global Geoparks, projects for creation of
do you think the certification and the
tourism. Please tell us what they are
management of the integrated brands.
the 6th industrial district, and so much
Geopark could aid the economy of Jeju?
along with a brief explanation.
Certified Global Geopark demonstrates
We focused on how to utilize UNESCO
a link between geological heritage
Global Geopark and national geoparks.
and human society. There should be
First, we had to find out how the local
coexistence of nature and human being.
people could participate to preserve
It is needless to mention Jeju’s geological
and develop the geology of the Global
value. I often tell people that geology
Geopark.
reflects the culture of the region. The
Second, we had to come up with the most
geology of Jeju has had influence
effective way to utilize the UNESCO brand
on architecture, agriculture, fishery,
itself. What comes to your mind when
vegetation, and ecology. And today, it has
you think of ‘UNESCO’? Many have said
become a unique trait of Jeju.
that words like ‘earth,’ ‘nature,’ ‘culture,’
The residents of Jeju, who have mingled
more.
Q. Jeju Island is a representative tourist
attraction of South Korea. Since you
work at Jeju Tourism Organization, you
must have much pride of Jeju Island.
What do you think is the real charm of
Jeju?
Jeju is an island formed by a long period
of volcanic activity. It has developed
its own unique scenery, culture, and
has pristine natural resources through
geographic and climatic conditions as
well as its unique flora. Jeju inhabitants
overcame the conditions of living on an
isolated island with cultural severance,
barren soil and surrounded by sea and
built a place where “nature and humans
coexist.” Among them, I think that the
farming culture that required farmers to
cultivate a wasteland full of stones and
rocks and the fishery culture of Haenyeo
(also known as female diver) are the pride
and charm of Jeju.
Seongsan · Ojo Geo-trail
coexistence with humans.
Fortunately, Jeju Island has received
a budget of KRW 3 billion through
the public project by Presidential
Geo-House
Committee on Balanced National
Development so we could successfully
improve the geopark to become a
tour brand. So I think the certification
system should be divided into
Geo-Gift
several steps. For example, give a
temporary certification with 3 years of
a probationary period and approve the
Geo-Brand
final certification through follow-up
a combination of UNESCO Global
reviews.
Geopark with the area’s unique geological
Moreover, we do not fully utilize any
Q. What is CSD’s next plan for Jeju
features, cultures, and ecological
of the three designations separately.
Island Global Geopark?
resources
Of course, there are many times when
With the support from Presidential
Geo-Trail : a break from the typical meditation
I feel proud of Jeju. People show
Committee on Balanced National
and ego-searching trails and inspired by new
admiration for Jeju whenever I perform
Development, we were able to promote
trends of story-telling trails as in Europe with
presentations abroad. Particularly,
many projects aimed at commercializing
cultural and educational values
foreign countries choose Jeju’s pristine
the global geopark. Seogwipo city
nature as its biggest charm. And the
also provided immense administrative
Geo-Activity : experiential products utilizing
UNESCO brand has reinforced that
support. There was a discussion
effect. I look forward to seeing more
between Jeju city and Seogwipo city
support and effort for the integrated
about establishing a support plan
administration of the brands and their
starting next year to invigorate the global
‘atmosphere,’ ‘cleanness,’ ‘design,’ and
utilization.
geopark. Geo-House, Geo-Activity, Geo-
with and preserved its geological nature,
‘education’ come to their minds when
of course, have the right to obtain
they think of “UNESCO.” I believe that the
Q. You received a commendation from
economic benefits from it. Since the
brand value of UNESCO is much more
traditional values of life can still be found
powerful than “Apple” or “Coca Cola.”
today, we must reconsider what we can
Based on these two aspects, we have
do with the geological resources and
named our business as “Geo-Brand”
the culture. And if we incorporate new
that oversees various divisions, such as
creative ideas to it, we can make use of
Geotrail, experience products, lodging,
the Global Geopark in so many different
food, souvenir, local agro-fishery
ways. Therefore, it is appropriate to utilize
products, and geological cultural events.
the Global Geopark in Jeju where the
I believe that “Geo-Brand” refers to
tourism industry is very important.
Jeju’s geological characteristics and
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the minister Public Administration
and Security for your contributions to
the Jeju Tourism Organization in 2013.
I am also told that you are actively
involved in promoting Jeju by giving
special lectures, etc. What solutions
do you suggest to improve the National
Geoparks?
First of all, it is important that we utilize
the parks appropriately. The number
Food
seem to do well. Actually, Geo-House
is already doing great. Local residents
love it so much. Therefore, Seogwipo
the geological features, cultures, ecology, food
and other resources of the area
Geo-House : a small guest house run by
local residents and decorated with shapes,
characteristics, and culture unique to local
geosites both in the interior and on the exterior
Geo-Food : using shapes and characteristics
of geosites as the motif, supplies local bakery
food or meals made with local ingredients
city, in collaboration with our Jeju
Geo-Farm : processed food with a story of
Tourism Organization, decided to
geological culture packaged in small units so
continuously promote the global
the visitors can carry it home easily
geopark commercializing business.
Geo-Gift : unlike typical and usual souvenirs,
We, the Convergence Strategy
these designs were selected through contests
Department will keep pushing forward
themed with geosite and resources in order to
to secure government funding for
meet the tourists’ preferences
businesses connected to the geopark.
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A Visit to
Geopark
②
It is difficult to experience true nature in a city. For me, I have experienced the
lines, surfaces, colors and sounds of nature since I was a kid. Among them,
the mountains were the most reflective of nature. I believe that every mountain
in Korea has its distinct characteristics. For instance, the physical aspects of
Juwangsan, one of the national geoparks of Korea, are majestic. I feel as if the
energy of the mountains that were created millions of years ago can be still felt
today. I am ennobled by the energy and the depths of the mountains. I believe it is
1
my fate to incorporate them into my work.”
We can easily notice the country’s geomorphological and geological features in her
paintings. We can see winding paths on hillsides, textures of strata, hard rocks that
have survived rain storms for thousands of years, and the seas in her drawings.
Her emotion and energy is also reflected in her works. They are evidence of her
belief that nothing is more inspirational than nature that has endured storms over
the years. Hence, she wanted her son to experience what she experienced. Instead
of sending him to a school in a city like most parents, she schooled her son in
Yangpyeong. Currently, her son, better known by the stage name ‘Beenzino’, is a
distinguished South Korean rapper and MC.
“I believed that the child would grow to be a healthy person if he knew about
nature’s virtue, temperament, law, etc. Just like I have, you know. When I look at
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my son who is an adult now, I think he has assimilated them to some extent into
his own character. Needless to say, he is still learning the process. But I am certain
that what he has seen, heard and felt of the nature as a child will greatly influence
him over time.”
to leave and take some time to look back and reflect on her progress. It is also the
reason why she spends two months every year in Berlin, Germany for her art. She
An encounter with
an artist
who paints nature
described it as “self-examination.” Just like the origin of Earth is recorded deep in
the ground or ocean, she believes “self-examination” is just seeing the deeper side
of herself. Perhaps, it is an act of her admiration towards nature. To Keum Dong
I wanted to show
South Korea’s
mother-like nature
through painting
Keum Dong Won is an artist of Western painting. Perhaps, she is a
Won, nature “may look irregular, but its solemnity is a perfect combination of form
stubborn artist. From her first work, ‘Following the Flow of Brush’ to
and composition.” The artist thinks, contemplates and reflects on how she should
her other works such as ‘Frozen in Time,’ ‘The Origin of Beauty,’ ‘The
visually express nature.
Forest of Thoughts,’ ‘Distant Metaphor’, her works are all based on
The deep reflection is shown in her paintings. They may look simple, but at the
nature. Mountain ridges, rocks, streams, trees, flowers are the main
same time--just like nature that is full of mysteries--her works also arouses
motifs. As if she were in unrequited love, the artist is absorbed in
curiosity. Her efforts were rewarded in Europe. Many Europeans were stuck with
nature. First, we asked her why.
admiration for her paintings that were simple yet so very philosophical. She plans
Keum Dong Won is an artist who expresses
Yeongju, Gyeongbuk, where the artist was born, is the province’s
to show more of her paintings through her art exhibition in Berlin, Germany, this
nature in her own language. She calls
northernmost mountainous area that is surrounded by high mountain
fall. But she says that it is not her art work that is behind her success in Europe.
herself as “a person who draws as she sees
peaks, such as Sobaeksan, Seondalsan, Eoraesan, Biro Peak, etc.
“Our country is beautiful but also dim at the same time. The mountains seem as if
Although two-thirds of the area is a mountainous region, fertile
they had emotion and the woods always seem warm. They are like the bosoms of
plains can be found along streams that flow through Sobaeksan.
mothers. I feel restraint and depth from mountains. And I have tried to incorporate
Additionally, the clay sand from the granite region which lies north of
those feelings into my paintings. Perhaps, it is why foreigners are captivated by our
Sobaeksan is excellent for growing root crops, such as sweet potato,
peculiar nature. Therefore, I plan to introduce Korean mountains through my art
ginseng, bellflower, and yam. Since Keum Dong Won was born and
work.”
raised in a region surrounded by nature, it almost seemed inevitable
‘Beautiful land of Korea’ refers to our rivers and mountains. Artist Keum Dong
that she should become an artist who paints nature.
Won has painted the beautiful landscape of Korea. Just as many are thankful for
“Thoughts occur to me while I work on my paintings. Maybe, it is
the beautiful scenery of the Geopark, Keum Dong Won is showing her gratitude
the reason behind her love for the nature?
my childhood memories that are reflected in my work. You know, a
through her paintings. The artists also wished that her paintings would remain as a
We became curious of her reasons.
certain power can result after a long term exposure to something.
permanent record of a living land that is still alive. She wants to convey her message
and breathes in the Korean mountains.”
Clearly, there is the nature of this country
that we are familiar with in her works.
The winding peaks of mountains and the
rocks that have endured the years are the
examples. And she incorporates messages
of nature in her paintings. What would be
through nature. We will have to wait and see what she will record over time.
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Acrylic on canvas, 91.0×65.2cm, 2010
2. Distant Metaphor - The origin of life, Acrylic on
canvas, 120.0×100.0cm×4.5cm, 2013
In fact, the artist admitted that she, too, is also in the learning process. She wants
Keum
Dong Won
1. The Forest of Thoughts - Mountain and Poetry,
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Remarkable rock
Cheongsong National Geopark is
Joseon Dynasty, is famous for his
Later, ‘Songhakseowon’ (school)
the mountain. Two streams combine
Cheongsong in Modern Literature
formations that reach
full of eye-catching views. Giam
worship of Cheongsong. In his later
was established by scholars from
passed the thunder sounding wall,
Not only has Cheongsong been
for the sky and gentle
Cliff which is shaped like two hands
years, Yi Hwang, after serving the
Cheongsong, and the school was
and ten thousand trees cluster
praised for its beauty by old poets,
mountainous features
folded in prayer towards the sky,
state for many years, retired to a
named by using letters from this
densely following streaks of rain. The
but some modern literature also
that embrace the world;
a drinking fountain that emerges
quiet rural village with aspiriations
poem.
horse trots along the windy road and
uses Cheongson as its background.
Cheongsong is a region
between pine trees, Yongchu,
of teaching and fostering pupils. He
goes outside the clouds, and people
For instance, ‘Gaekju’ by novelist
that has been praised
Jeolgu, and Yongyeon waterfalls that
writes, “This is surely my home, as it
Cheongsong in the Poems of Joseon
look down on the birds, where the
Kim Ju Young, who is famous for
by literati since the
fall in three stages, and Yeonhwa,
feels like entering utopia. The clear
Scholars
peaks were rougher than the road to
being from Cheongsong, is a good
old days. Rocks that
Mujang, and Juwang caves which
streams and red cliffs reflect on the
Hong Yeo Bang, a scholar in
Chok.”
example. Gaekju, a story about the
bloom like flowers and
are rich in legend, are just a few of
golden temple.” This shows us that
the Joseon Dynasty, wrote in
Neo-confucianist scholar Kim Jong
lives of the ‘Bobusang’ (traveling
cooling streams that
the diverse geological resources
to Yi Hwang, Cheongsong was the
Changyeongrugi, “The pines are
Jik in the Joseon Dynasty also
merchants) is considered the first
flow abundantly are
that you can find at Mt. Juwang, the
ideal location for him to realize his
dense and the red sky clouds
praises Cheongsong. “An elegant
historical novel which depicts
natural thrills to the
main attraction of Cheongsong. In
dream.
are covered far away, thus the
house higher than the end of the
modern history, and is loved by
passerby. Cheongsong,
addition, the spherulitic rhyolites
However, his dream towards
clear and deep province is like a
tree stands next to the evening sun /
many readers. Many attractions of
with its heavenly
that resemble blooming flowers, a
Cheongsong did not come true.
world of hermits itself. This place
Climbing up, and even before having
Cheongsong appear in the novel
blessed landscape has
pavilion atop a cliff, the sedimentary
The emperor refused Yi’s request
is Cheongsong.” In his poem,
a glass of wine, the merriment gains
including the traditional market of
always been a source of
rock layers seen from Banghojung,
to be appointed as an envoy to
Hong describes the scenery of
height first / the stream winds down
Cheongsong. To celebrate this novel,
inspiration for poets and
and Baekseoktan which means
Cheongsong. Instead, Yi was
Cheongsong as he arrives from
and submerges a thousand stone
Cheongsong county established a
writers alike.
“stream with shining white stones,”
appointed as the governor of
Jinbo, and writes, “in this province
stair roads / enclosed by mountains,
‘Gaekju Literature Hall’ in Jinbo-
are all captivating attractions to
Danyang, and on the day he left for
the old, the young, students, and
I steal a sight of a piece of the sky
myeon where the history of
visitors of Cheongsong. Since the
Danyang, he expressed his feelings
Gyobang (courtesan) all have great
/ the auspicious sign of the deer
Cheongsong is on display. Writer
old days, many poems have been
through a poem, “Cheongsong
insights as they all have their own
is surely notable / and the utopia
Gwon Jeong Seng who is famous
dedicated to Cheongsong to praise
Baekhak Sumubun, Byeoksu Dansan
poems.” And he praises, “the people
like scenery of this place is truly
for ‘Mongsil Eonni’ also has great
its mysterious beauty.
Jinyuyeon.” This means, “There
are simple and honest and the
lovable / I raise by head and laugh
affection for Cheongsong. In his
is no destiny with the white crane
customs are hospitable that all day
and explain to the guest who lives in
novel, the heroin Mongsil, moves
Cheongsong in Yi Hwang’s Poems
on the blue pine tree, but there
there are no complaints.”
the mist / among these mountains
with her mother to a village in
One of the most prominent scholars
is fate with blue waters and red
Seo Geo Jeong, another scholar
just because Sobu or Heoyu lived / It
Cheongsong. The village is named
to praise the beauty of Cheongsong
mountains,” which was Yi Hwang’s
in the Joseon Dynasty writes, “the
does not mean that they have always
‘Daetgol’ because the valleys are
was ‘Toegye’ Yi Hwang. Yi Hwang,
way of expressing his regret for not
cloud road is winding, the field road
been hermits.”
straight and long like a bamboo tube.
a civil minister and scholar of the
being appointed to Cheongsong.
is round and round, and there are
This village is also where Gwon’s
two or three cabins along the side of
mother’s family actually lived.
Cheongsong
National Geopark
in Literature
Treasure
Island on
Land, Songs of
Cheongsong
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金周英
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The Jade Gate has opened amidst the galaxy
金涌
47 48 49 50
The pines are dense and the red sky clouds are covered
far away, thus the clear and deep province is like a world
of hermits itself. This place is Cheongsong.
46
洪汝方
Cheongsong Baekhak Sumubun, Byeoksu Dansan Jinyuyeon
李滉
41 42 43 44 45
Gyeongsang Provinces and a shrewd city
80 million years ago, the end of the
There is a city you can’t define in
girl from Seoul?
Cretaceous period of the Mesozoic Era.
The refracted tidal wave split the land
boasts of a variety of charms i.e.,
HeemiWow! What a stunning view
convenient infrastructures and natural
Yigidae
environments where seas meet hills in a
Encounter
with Yigidae
through the film
‘Haeundae’
Meet Yigidae,
a monumental
site of great
nature and
history
A scene from the movie Haeundae
was formed. The scientists inferred that
place?
Yigidae and Oryukdo Islands had been
harmonious way.
Hyungshik Yigidae.
connected by proving the same geological
One of the keywords representing the
HeemiYigidae? Is it a person’s
features between the two places.
city is movie. You may tell that quite a
name? Pretty unusual!
few films’ backdrop is Busan without
HyungshikIt’s not a person’s name.
Frequently observed at Yigidae are diverse
geomorphological features by the action
being reminded of the historical fact that
Long time ago, two Korean
of erosion - for instance, sea cliffs formed
the city is where Korean motion pictures
gisaengs (professional
by weathering, wave-cut platform created
were born.
entertainers) seized a
by the cliff retreating landward and
Numerous films were set in Busan
Japanese commander and
marine potholes a.k.a. dolgaegoomung.
including ‘Ode to My Father’ the film that
jumped with him into the sea
Yigidae presents not only unique
told us about our father’s generation
here, that’s why it’s called
geomorphological features but also
filled with upheavals, and ‘Friend’ the
Yigidae.
legacies of sad history. In the past, Yigidae
So what?
was a part of restricted military area to
film that portrayed male friendship.
Heemi
Among such films, Haeundae, released
Hyungshik(frustrated) Yigi! Yi means
two, gi means gisaeng, Yigi!
in 2009, captures our eyes in that its plot
features Busan National Geopark and its
*Source of the photo : Movie <Haeundae>
into two pieces and that’s how Yigidae
here! What’s the name of the
Heemi(still clueless) were gisaengs
defend against the invasion of espionage
agents. Civil access was restricted by
1997 and the iron wall for coast guard was
geological properties.
selfish? (Yigi also means
lifted in 2005 when Yigidae Coastaline
We laugh and cry watching
The main topic of the film is seismic sea
selfish in Korean)
Trail Project was launched. Part of the
movies. We shed tears as
wave. To begin with, let’s take a look
HyungshikYi means two, gi means
walls has been left as a learning place for
gisaeng, two gisaengs, Yigi!
history for next generations. Also found in
Oh, two gisaengs! Yigi!
Yigidae are Copper mine run during the
if we were a heroine of a
at the synopsis. Dr. Kim Hwi, played by
tragic drama while burst
actor Joong-Hoon Park, is a geologist at
Heemi
into laughter about simple
international marine research center. He
HyungshikAre you always slow in
jokes. Even common stories
discovers that the earthquake centered
understanding things like
Barrack set up as the shelter of female
and plain characters, when
on Busan is similar to the tsunami in
that?
divers.
presented on silver screens,
Indonesia 5 years ago which is infamous
(mad) what?
Busan Geopark built Oryukdo- Yigidae
steal audiences’ hearts.
for unprecedented death tolls. He tries
So do places. The places
in vain to warn the Korean Peninsula of
Heemi
A venue of learning for nature and
connecting Yigidae Geotrail and Oryukdo
Islands, embracing the rich geological
the disaster. In the end, 800km per hour
even though they look just
tidal wave sweeps Busan. More than 10
As Hyungshik explained, Yigidae has
resources and historic traces. Interpreters
like neighborhood alleys.
million movie fans were moved by heart-
something to do with two Korean
explain geological features in the Yigidae
That’s why many people
breaking love story, touching family
gisaengs. According to Dongraeyoungji by
course which starts at Eoul Madang and
set out on a trip to find
affection and a spirit of self-sacrifice
Commander of the Left Jeolla Province
stretches to Female Diver Barrack and
places seen on the movies.
through terrors of natural disaster.
Naval District, Hyungha Lee, ‘Yigidae is
Donsaengmal. The interpreter service
National Geoparks are what
The first disaster film in Korea,
5.9 km from south of Left Jeolla Province
is provided twice a day at 10:30 am
you can’t miss among the
Haeundae, finds its success in life-like
Naval District and the name comes from
and 14:00 pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
places featured in movies
visuals and a solid plot.
the graves of two gisaengs up there.’
Apply online at Busan National Geopark
and on TV. You may get
However, what pays for the fame of film
Later, a native historian Hanbok Choi
Website(reservation for group visit of 20 or
puzzled at the unfamiliar
is Yigidae, where a fire fighter Hyungshik
(1895~1968) added, ‘During the Japanese
more persons is available only by phone:
term “Geopark”, but soon
and a repeat examinee Heemi dated.
Invasion of Korea in 1592, Japanese army
call 061-888-3636). Now Yigidae became
will nod after hearing about
Unlike other films in which Yigidae only
conquered Suyeong-seong Fortress
a must see destination for visitors and
the story which begins from
serves as backdrops, Haeundae provides
and threw a feast at Yigidae. Two invited
Busan residents with its beautiful Coastal
now. The more you learn,
information on the place through the
gisaengs of Suyeong offered drinks to a
trail. For your next trip, why don’t you dig
the more fun you will get
conversation between the couple.
Japanese commander to get him drunk
more into Yigidae, the place full of hidden
when Geoparks couple with
How about hearing out a cheerful
and seized him and jumped into the sea.’
charms of nature and history?
movies. Let’s take a look!
conversation between a blunt man from
The birth of Yigidae dates back to
49 50
Interpreter service is
available on geological
nature of Yigidae Course
which starts at Eoul
Madang and stretches to
Female Diver Barrack and
Dongsaengmal.
Apply online at Busan
Geopark website.
Interpreter program
schedule
•Tue-Sun (closed on Mon)
•Nakdong Estuary
(Mt. Ami observatory)
11:00/13:00/14:30/16:00
•Taejongdae (Danubi
Lighthouse stop)
11:00/13:30/15:00
•Yigidae parking lot
10:30/14:00
Geotrail which extends to 4.7 km
in the movies fascinate us
48
Time travel led by
Geopark Interpreter
Japanese Colonial Era and Female Diver
history
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one word. Yes, it’s Busan which
Travel TIP
Discover Yigidae in the film
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Marine pothole
National Geoparks
of Korea
Geopark, beautiful and mysterious, even wind and sun would rest to admire it.
Anyone can see the sky, but not everybody has the chance of
having the beauty of geoparks nearby.
Geoparks are a gift from mother nature.
Korean National Geoparks' main goal is to develop a symbiotic and
harmonic relationship between people and nature.
Upholding and promoting the value of the conservation of nature,
Geoparks will grow to reach a global attraction.
Geoparks will enrich your life.
Yoo Youngkuk , Mountain,1981 oil on canvas 73x91cm(F30)
‘Rhapsody
to nature’
Painter
Yoo Youngkuk
There is a painter who drew mountains throughout his life. The painter of the mountain,
Yoo Youngkuk, has pioneered abstract painting of Korea. From his canvas always soared
an immense mountain. As if erupted volcano gushes out hot lava, he expressed such
intensity on his canvas. He said, ‘I painted nature not as a concrete object, but in an
abstract form composed of lines, surfaces and colors’. In fact, in his work, there’s no real
mountain but we know it exists. We can see that it is clearly a mountain, albeit abstract.
Through the intensity of primary colors and flow of dynamic lines, the artist created a
mountain. The mountain seen by us is so full of life that it gives its own energy to us.
That’s why we can’t help giving his name two thumbs up.
It’s no exaggeration to say that all that he drew were mountains because he really did as a
painter except during the period of his study in Japan. The way he worked on his painting
was unique; he only stared at the mountain but didn’t start working on it until he returned
to his art studio. In other words, what the artist expressed on canvas was not a mountain
as is, but its images perceived through his perspectives. Regarding this, he stated that
“Abstraction speaks no words. No explanation is necessary. Just understand it as you
see.” Only a person who has a deep insight in nature can say such a thing. Thus his work
feels pure and solemn. The artist’s rhapsody to nature has been ringing in our ears over a
long period of time.
(1916~2002)
Yoo graduated from the department of oil painting, Tokyo Art Academy's College of Fine Arts
in Japan and was appointed as a professor at Seoul National University and Hongik Univeristy,
Korea. He pioneered in modernism and abstract painting of Korea and received many awards such
as Grand Prize of Free Artist Exhibition in Japan and Culture and Art Award of Korea.
Yoo Youngkuk
*Copyright © Yoo Youngkuk Art Foundation. All Rights Reserved
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NATIONAL GEOPARKS SECRETARIAT OF KOREA
4th FL. 12.Mapo-dearo 10-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 04211, Korea
Tel.+82.2.8721.9604. Fax.+82.2.721.9699. www.koreageoparks.kr.