DANYANG, South Korea, April 16 (Korea Bizwire) —Danyang County in North Chungcheong Province has been officially designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, marking a major milestone in the region’s push to become a premier destination for geological and ecological tourism.
UNESCO announced the designation on April 10 (local time in France), covering the entire Danyang region—an area of approximately 781 square kilometers, nearly 270 times the size of Seoul’s Yeouido district.
Global Geoparks are sites recognized for their exceptional geological heritage, and Danyang’s designation reflects international acknowledgment of its 1.3 billion years of geological history and 43 geosites, including rare karst formations, limestone caves, and striking sedimentary landscapes.
Dodamsambong has long been renowned for its beauty and was especially beloved by many painters and scholars during the Joseon Dynasty. (Image provided by Danyang County)
Highlights include the iconic Dodamsambong Peaks, a trio of limestone spires rising from the Namhan River, and Gosu Cave, known for its dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and prehistoric formations. Other geological landmarks include Ondal Cave, Sainam Rock Cliffs, Yeocheonri Karst Terrain, and coral fossils in Gosuri.
With this designation, South Korea now has seven UNESCO Global Geoparks, including Jeju Island, Cheongsong, the Mudeungsan area, Hantangang River, the West Coast of Jeollabuk-do, and the East Coast of Gyeongsangbuk-do. Danyang is the first in the central Chungcheong region.
Danyang began its campaign for UNESCO recognition in 2016 and was certified as a national geopark in 2020. Following extensive research, infrastructure development, and international evaluations, it was named a candidate site in 2023 and officially approved this year.
Gosu cave (Image courtesy of Danyang County)
The county plans to leverage its new status to expand educational tourism, host scientific conferences, and develop themed experiences—such as a “Geo and Space” learning tour. Major initiatives include hosting Korea’s largest geopark festival in October and enhancing facilities like the Geopark Visitor Center and the Gosuri Community Center.
“This designation affirms Danyang’s immense geological value on a global scale,” said County Governor Kim Moon-geun. “We aim to make the geopark a driving force for regional growth—benefiting both residents and visitors alike.”
Local officials expressed hope that Danyang’s upgraded global brand will boost tourism and invigorate the local economy, citing positive precedents from other UNESCO geopark sites in Korea.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
