Paris, April 10th – North Korea’s Mount Paektu, a revered and historically significant volcano straddling the border with China, has been officially designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Executive Board approved the designation on April 10th, marking a significant milestone for North Korea and its efforts to showcase its unique geological heritage.
This designation follows China’s successful bid to have its portion of the mountain range, known as Changbaishan in Chinese, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark last year. While North Korea submitted its application earlier in 2019, the on-site inspection was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing back the approval process.
The UNESCO Global Geoparks Council highlighted Mount Paektu’s dramatic volcanic landscape as a key feature, emphasizing the unique calderas formed by glacial erosion. These distinct geological formations contribute to the mountain’s exceptional scientific and aesthetic value.
A Region of Shared Heritage and Geological Significance
Mount Paektu holds immense cultural and political significance for both North Korea and China. In North Korean mythology, it is considered the birthplace of the Korean people and a sacred symbol of the nation. The mountain is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning natural beauty and historical importance.
The designation of Mount Paektu as a UNESCO Global Geopark is expected to boost tourism and promote sustainable development in the region. It also underscores the importance of international cooperation in preserving and managing shared natural resources.
South Korea Gains Two New UNESCO Designations
In related news, South Korea also saw success in its efforts to gain UNESCO recognition for its geological sites. The Danyang Geopark and the Gyeongsangbuk-do East Coast Geopark have also been added to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. This brings South Korea’s total number of UNESCO Global Geoparks to seven, further solidifying the country’s commitment to preserving its geological heritage.
Conclusion
The designation of Mount Paektu as a UNESCO Global Geopark is a significant achievement for North Korea, marking its first entry into the network. This recognition, along with the addition of two new geoparks in South Korea, highlights the region’s rich geological diversity and the importance of international collaboration in preserving these valuable natural resources for future generations. The designation is expected to promote sustainable tourism, scientific research, and a greater understanding of the region’s unique geological history.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, April 11). North Korea’s Mount Paektu Designated as UNESCO Global Geopark. Retrieved from [Insert original news article URL here if available]
- UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. (n.d.). Retrieved from UNESCO official website.
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