Gyeongbuk East Coast Geopark Receives UNESCO Global Geopark Community Certification

Eleven Geological Sites in Yeongdeok Gain Global Attention
Anticipation Grows for Future Initiatives

Yeongdeok County, North Gyeongsang Province, announced that at the 11th Global Geoparks Network (GGN) Conference held in Temuco, Chile, from September 8 to 12 (local time), the Gyeongbuk East Coast Geopark, which includes 11 geological sites within the county, received the 'UNESCO Global Geopark Certificate of Membership.'

Gyeongbuk East Coast Geopark Certified as UNESCO Global Geopark Community. Photo by Yeongdeok County

The certificate awarding ceremony took place on the night of September 10 (morning of September 11, Korea time), in front of more than 1,000 delegates from over 70 countries around the world.

At this conference, the Gyeongbuk East Coast Geopark delegation attracted international attention by introducing its exploration programs, resident participation activities, and examples of geological heritage conservation. In particular, the value of geological attractions within Yeongdeok County, such as Haemaji Park, Jukdosan, Goraebul Coast, and the Cheoram Fossil Site, was highlighted on the global stage.

With this, the Gyeongbuk East Coast Geopark was officially declared a full member of the Global Geopark Community at this conference, following its designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark at the Executive Board meeting held at UNESCO headquarters in Paris in April.

While the designation certificate received at UNESCO headquarters in Paris serves as an official document with international validity, this certificate symbolizes the Global Geopark Community's welcome and solidarity with Yeongdeok County and the East Coast of North Gyeongsang Province.

The UNESCO Global Geopark system evaluates not only geological value but also the connection with ecological, historical, and cultural resources, community cooperation, and sustainable management systems. Even after designation, revalidation is required every four years to maintain the qualification.

Based on this achievement, Yeongdeok County plans to expand ecological experience programs that link local geological attractions with the Blue Road, a coastal trekking route renowned for its scenic beauty. The county will also enhance trails and amenities, actively promote geotourism with residents, and use these efforts as a foundation for regional revitalization.

County Governor Kim Kwangyeol stated, "The awarding of this certificate marks an opportunity to announce to the world that our county has established itself as a proud member of the Global Geopark Community," adding, "We will continue to do our utmost, together with our residents, to preserve our precious geological heritage and ensure that world-class education and tourism can be sustained."