Seoul, March 2 (Yonhap News Agency) – Following the inscription of the Chinese side of the Paektu Mountain range as a UNESCO Global Geopark under the name Changbaishan in 2024, the North Korean side of the mountain is also expected to receive the same designation.
According to sources from UNESCO and academic circles on March 2nd, the UNESCO Executive Board will convene its 221st session from April 2nd to 17th to discuss the approval of six new sites into the UNESCO Global Geoparks network. Given that the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council’s recommended candidates are typically approved, the inclusion of Mount Paektu in North Korea is considered highly likely.
This would mark the first UNESCO Global Geopark designation for North Korea. Mount Paektu, a significant volcanic mountain straddling the border between North Korea and China, is considered sacred in Korean culture. Approximately one-quarter of the mountain lies within North Korea, while the remaining three-quarters are in China. Notably, around 55% of the famed crater lake, Heaven Lake (Cheonji in Korean), is situated within North Korean territory.
North Korea initially submitted its application to include Mount Paektu in the UNESCO Global Geoparks network in 2019. Although the submission predated China’s, the on-site evaluation was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, subsequently postponing the approval process.
Significance and Implications
The potential designation of Mount Paektu as a UNESCO Global Geopark carries significant implications for both North Korea and the broader international community:
- Tourism and Economic Development: The UNESCO designation can boost tourism to the region, attracting both domestic and international visitors. This increased tourism can, in turn, stimulate local economies through job creation and revenue generation.
- Conservation and Sustainable Development: The UNESCO Global Geopark status emphasizes the importance of preserving the geological heritage of Mount Paektu. This includes promoting sustainable development practices that balance economic growth with environmental protection.
- International Cooperation: While geopolitical tensions persist on the Korean Peninsula, the joint presence of Mount Paektu/Changbaishan within the UNESCO Global Geoparks network could foster a degree of cooperation and dialogue between North Korea and China.
- Cultural Significance: Mount Paektu holds immense cultural and historical significance for both Korean and Chinese people. The UNESCO designation can further highlight this shared heritage and promote cross-cultural understanding.
Conclusion
The anticipated inclusion of Mount Paektu in North Korea into the UNESCO Global Geoparks network represents a positive development. It underscores the importance of preserving geological heritage, promoting sustainable development, and fostering international cooperation. While challenges remain, the designation offers a unique opportunity to leverage the cultural and natural significance of Mount Paektu for the benefit of both North Korea and the global community.
References
Yonhap News Agency. (2024, March 2). 朝鲜白头山有望入选世界地质公园 (Mount Paektu on the Korean Side Poised to Join UNESCO Global Geoparks). Retrieved from [Insert original URL here if available, otherwise omit].
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