Yeosu City Begins Full-Fledged Bid for National Geopark Status for Hyangiram, Sado, and More

by Heo Seonsik

Published 31 Jan.2025 14:14(KST)

Updated 27 Jul.2025 23:39(KST)

Confirmation of Registration Potential... Aiming for Designation Next Year

Yeosu City, Jeollanam-do (Mayor Jung Kimyung) has begun earnest efforts to have its geological sites, including Hyangiram Columnar Joint and Sado Dinosaur Footprint Fossils, designated as a National Geopark.

The city announced on the 31st that, following a ten-month “Feasibility Study for National Geopark Certification” that began in February last year, it has applied for candidate site certification this year with the goal of achieving National Geopark designation next year.

Sado, Yeosu. Provided by Yeosu City

Prior to this, the city is thoroughly preparing through the “Establishment of Yeosu National Geopark Master Plan and Certification Application” project, while also establishing a foundation for the management and operation of the geopark, developing tourism and educational programs, and preparing strategies for sustainable regional economic development to firmly support the initiative.

In addition, since cooperation from local residents is required for National Geopark registration, the city plans to encourage direct participation by training local interpreters and supporting the operation of tourism and accommodation facilities as part of the certification project.

A city official stated, “To be certified as a National Geopark, a site must possess at least five nationally significant heritage sites, including one of world-class value. Based on current research, Yeosu already meets these criteria,” adding, “We also see a high potential for future certification as both a National Geopark and a UNESCO Global Geopark.”

Currently, there are 16 National Geoparks in Korea, including Ulleungdo, Jeju Island, and Busan. Four sites?Jeju Island, Juwangsan, Mudeungsan, and Hantangang?have been designated as UNESCO Global Geoparks.