울릉도･독도 국가지질공원의 역사적 유래와 보존 활용방안

Abstract

This study discusses the certification of Ulleungdo and Dokdo National Geoparks, their historical origins, and ways to preserve and utilize the National Geoparks. In 2012, Ulleungdo and Dokdo were selected as national geoparks for the first time in Korea along with Jejudo. As is well known, Ulleungdo and Dokdo have excellent topography and geological heritage. The fact that the entire region of Ulleung-gun in Gyeongsangbuk-do has been certified as a national geopark by the Ministry of Environment means that it is meaningful and re-recognized as a major region. Accordingly, how to effectively preserve and use the topography and geological heritage of Ulleungdo and Dokdo, and how to educate and utilize it as a tourism resource is emerging as a major concern. On the one hand, while using it well, on the other hand, Ulleung-gun has a task that must be well preserved. When Ulleungdo and Dokdo are used as tourism resources, it is necessary to have an eye for “geotourism,” that is, geotourism, which attracts tourists by utilizing natural geological resources as tourism products First of all, when discussing how to preserve and utilize Ulleungdo and Dokdo National Geoparks, it is necessary to be aware that unlike other National Geoparks, there are special legal “restrictions”. In other words, Dokdo is subject to the management system promoted by the competent authority in accordance with other laws in addition to the “Act on Sustainable Use of Dokdo”. In addition, Dokdo is certified as a geopark in accordance with the ｢Nature Park Act｣ and supports academic research and research, information dissemination, education and promotion, and experiences. Therefore, for Dokdo, the aspect of preserving the ecosystem has been strengthened by law, and it is difficult to derive new ways to use it other than through existing experiential activities. Next, the following is a plan for the conservation and utilization of Ulleungdo and Dokdo National Geoparks. First, the Ulleungdo and Dokdo National Geoparks have been continuously implementing programs for visits and education, but it is judged that there is a lack of connection with the income increase of local residents. Second, Ulleungdo and Dokdo National Geoparks must be prevented from being damaged, prepared for natural disasters, and wisely preserved the rich topography and geological heritage. Third, it is necessary to smoothly harmonize the two aspects of conservation and utilization in the flow of geotourism. Fourth, it is necessary to prepare a program for dialogue and communication between geotourism policy makers and local residents. Fifth, cooperation with experts in various fields is required to successfully continue geotourism and geopark construction while preserving rich terrain and geological heritage. Sixth, it should be remembered that the environmental preservation of Ulleungdo and Dokdo is not limited to maintaining national geoparks, but is intertwined with the political, diplomatic, and international legal aspects of protecting the sovereignty of Korea. Seventh, continuous efforts are needed to obtain UNESCO World Geopark certification for the conversion of eco-tourism resources at an international level.