Mount Paektu, an active stratovolcano located on the border between North Korea and China, will soon receive international recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The announcement is a significant moment for North Korea, as Mount Paektu will become the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark. This article will delve deeper into the significance of the designation, Mount Paektu’s uniqueness, and its impact on the region.
The Uniqueness of Mount Paektu
Mount Paektu is the highest mountain on the Korean Peninsula, reaching 2,744 meters above sea level. The mountain is famous for its natural beauty, including Heaven Lake located in its summit crater. The lake is surrounded by spectacular scenery that includes unique geological formations, such as moraine hills, moraine plains, and overflow plains formed by glacial deposition.
In addition, Mount Paektu has an extraordinary volcanic geological heritage, with a landscape formed by volcanic eruptions. UNESCO notes that the area shows a well-developed glacial geography, including circles formed by glacial erosion. The mountain is also considered a volcano with high potential for future eruptions, making it an important site for scientific research.
Process of Designation as UNESCO Global Geopark
The process for UNESCO Global Geopark status began in 2019, when North Korea applied for Mount Paektu. However, the process was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented on-site inspections. However, in 2025, UNESCO's Executive Board finally approved the designation of Mount Paektu as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
UNESCO Global Geoparks are integrated geographical areas of international geological significance. These sites are managed with a holistic concept that includes protection, education and sustainable development. This designation shows that Mount Paektu not only has geological value, but is also important for environmental conservation and local community development.
Impact of This Determination
The designation of Mount Paektu as a UNESCO Global Geopark is expected to bring several benefits to North Korea. First, the status will raise the international profile of Mount Paektu, attracting tourists and researchers from around the world. Travelers interested in the natural beauty and unique geological heritage will have more reasons to visit the area.
Second, this designation can also encourage sustainable development around Mount Paektu. With proper management, this area can serve as an example of how environmental conservation can go hand in hand with local economic development. Education and training programs can also be introduced to raise public awareness of the importance of protecting this geological heritage.
Challenges and Hopes
While the designation brings many benefits, there are challenges to overcome. North Korea needs to ensure that the area is properly managed according to UNESCO standards. This includes protecting the local ecosystem, managing the impact of tourism, and ensuring that development around Mount Paektu does not damage its natural beauty.
But with strong commitment, Mount Paektu has the potential to become a successful example of a UNESCO Global Geopark. This designation also provides hope that international cooperation can continue to grow, even amid political and economic challenges.
Conclusion
Mount Paektu is a symbol of natural beauty and outstanding geological heritage. The UNESCO Global Geopark designation is a recognition of the importance of this site, not only to North Korea, but also to the international community. With proper management, Mount Paektu can serve as an inspiration for environmental conservation and sustainable development efforts around the world.
Hopefully this article has provided some insight into the importance of Mount Paektu being designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please feel free to contact me!
