Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark Achieves "Three Consecutive UNESCO Certifications"

Passed Two Revalidations Since 2018 Designation
Collaborative Management Success of Gwangju, Jeollanam-do, Damyang, and Hwasun Confirmed

The Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark has successfully achieved "three consecutive certifications," having passed the UNESCO revalidation review and being revalidated twice in a row since its original designation in 2018. Jointly managed by Gwangju City, Jeollanam-do Province, Damyang County, and Hwasun County, the Mudeungsan Area Geopark has once again received international recognition for its achievements in geological heritage conservation, linking education and tourism, and operating a collaborative regional management system.

According to Gwangju City on April 27, the Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark passed the final review of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council and has been officially listed on its website.

A view of the Ipsukdae area, a representative geological site of Mudeungsan Mountain. Provided by Gwangju City

The Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark was once again recognized for its geological, historical, cultural, and ecological value, as well as for the results of its sustainable management. Four recommendations made during the first revalidation were reflected in this assessment.

A high-resolution survey project was implemented to preserve the Seoyuri dinosaur fossil site. Geumdangsan Mountain was newly designated as a geological site. Efforts to conserve and discover the value of geological heritage have continued.

Large information boards and road signs were installed. Multilingual guidebooks were produced in collaboration with sister parks. Efforts were made to enhance on-site recognition.

Agreements were signed with the Mudeungsan Watermelon Producers' Association and Pyeongchon Village. Local specialty products and eco-tourism resources were linked together. The foundation for community cooperation was expanded.

Visitors are moving along the ridge at the summit of Mudeungsan Mountain. Photo by Gwangju City

Educational content reflecting climate change, natural disaster response, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was also developed. The educational function of geopark management was strengthened.

The collaborative model jointly operated by Gwangju City, Jeollanam-do Province, Damyang County, and Hwasun County also drew renewed attention. It was evaluated as a case of joint management crossing administrative boundaries.

Gwangju City plans to revise its management plan—including geological heritage conservation, promotion of education and tourism, and climate change response—following its integration with Jeollanam-do Province.

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