A Geopark is “A territory encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance, not only for geological reasons but also by virtue of its archaeological, ecological or cultural value,” according to the UNESCO Geoparks International Network (GGN) of Geoparks programme. The GGN program aims at enhancing the value of sites representing an earth science interest while at the same time creating employment and promoting regional economic development. The UNESCO Geopark Program works in synergy with UNESCO's World Heritage Centre and Man and the Biosphere (MAB) World Network of Biosphere Reserves. GGN, established in coordination with European Geoparks Network (EGN) in 2004, has been joined by 77 Geoparks from 25 countries as of 2011. Jeju Island was designated as UNESCO Geopark in October 2010.
The entire Jeju Island is a World Geopark recognized for its diversity of volcanic formations and geological resources. Among various sites, the nine particular sites are sought popularly by visitors. First, there is the symbolic icon of Jeju, Mt. Hallasan located at the center of the island. Suwolbong tuff ring is a well-known research site for its hydrovolcanic landforms. Mt. Sanbangsan is famous for its lava dome. Yongmeori Coast reveals a well-preserved history of hydrovolcanic activities during the early formations of Jeju Island. Jusangjeolli Columnar Joint is a popular educational site with the hexagonal lava pillars. The volume in the solidified lava shrank as the hot lava-flows from volcanic explosions cooled down. As a result, the hardened lava formations were split vertically forming its hexagonal pillar shapes. Seogwipo Formation tells the marine environment one million years ago in the excellent preservation of the shell fish fossil layers. Cheonjiyeon Falls show eroded sedimentary deposits while revealing the formation progress of the valley and the falls. Seongsan Ilchulbong sunrise peak, is known as one of the most representative landforms of tuff cone. Finally, there is Manjanggul cave. It is the only one open to visitors as part of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System.
A. Suweolbong Tuff Ring B. Sanbangsan Lava Dome C. Yongmeori Tuff Ring
D. Jungmun Daepo Columnar-Jointed Lava E. Seogwipo FormationF. Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
G. Mt. Halla H. Manjanggul Lava Tube I. Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone
More info: Jeju Tourism Organization
