Making the Korean DMZ’s Geopark in Gangwon Province, the Republic of Korea

MAKING THE KOREAN DMZ GEOPARK IN GANGWON PROVINCE, REPUBLIC OF KOREA

CHANG-HWAN KIM, SUNG-HOON JUNG

Geopark Agency of Gangwon DMZ; Kangwon National University.

Abstract: The DMZ (Demilitarized zone) in Gangwon-do displays geomorphological and geological resources which have been formed from time immemorial. In addition, DMZ has been formed in history of Korea, and possesses cultures unique to DMZ. In addition, DMZ has eco-resources that have remained intact and unexplored. The purpose of this project is to make efforts to make geomorphological and geological resources exceptional in its academic and scenic value of the bordering district in Gangwon DMZ and the history, culture, and eco-resources unique to this district into UNESCO-certified World Geopark, and to promote the sustainable development of its bordering districts.

This area is possessed of geomorphological and geological resources such as Basalt Landscape. Granite and Metamorphic Rocks Landscape and Coastal Landscape. These resources formed the major geosite of Gangwon DMZ Geopark that Basalt Valley of Cheolwon Daegyo Stream, Hwacheon Yanguidae, Yanggu Dutayeon, Inje Daeamsan Dragon Swamp and Goseong Hwajinpo.

This project, in cooperation with Gangwon-do, and five local autonomous entities such as Cheolwon-gun, Hwacheon-gun, Yanggu-gun, Inje-gun, and Goseong-gun, will greatly contribute to the securing of international competitiveness of DMZ and its adjacent districts, and revival of the local economy of the bordering districts.