South Korea Designates Geumjeongsan as its 24th National Park
Busan, South Korea – In a landmark decision celebrated by local communities and environmental advocates, Geumjeongsan mountain, straddling Busan and Yangsan in South Gyeongsang Province, has officially been designated as South Korea’s 24th national park. The announcement, made on March 3, 2026, by the National Park Corporation, marks the culmination of two decades of advocacy for the protection of this vital urban ecosystem. This designation is particularly significant as Geumjeongsan is the nation’s first “urban national park,” a distinction highlighting its unique role in providing natural respite within a densely populated area.
The move, approved following a review by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment’s National Park Committee in November 2025, formalizes protections for a 66.859 square kilometer area encompassing 78% of Busan across six administrative districts and 22% of Yangsan city. The newly designated park too includes Baekyangsan mountain, which connects to Geumjeongsan via the Nakdongjeongmaek ridge. The designation’s effectiveness began immediately upon announcement, with the official launch of the Geumjeongsan National Park Office.
A Long-Awaited Victory for Conservation
The campaign to establish Geumjeongsan as a national park dates back to 2005, gaining significant momentum over the years. In 2014, a petition garnering over 100,000 signatures was presented to authorities, underscoring the strong public desire for increased environmental protection. Formal discussions were initiated in 2019 when the Busan Metropolitan City government, following a feasibility study conducted by the Busan Research Institute, officially requested national park status from the central government. The Yonhap News Agency reports that this request finally bore fruit with today’s announcement.
Geumjeongsan’s importance extends beyond its scenic beauty. The mountain is a biodiversity hotspot, home to 1,782 species of wildlife, including 14 endangered species such as the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), the Korean salamander (Karsenia koreana), and the Korean ground beetle (Carabus koreae). The park also boasts a diverse landscape featuring 17 mountain peaks, 25 rock formations, 13 wetlands, and one cave, alongside 71 culturally significant sites. These cultural assets include 127 designated heritage sites, including one national treasure.
The First of its Kind: An Urban National Park
The designation of Geumjeongsan as a national park represents a novel approach to conservation in South Korea. Unlike previous national park designations, which typically focused on remote, pristine wilderness areas, Geumjeongsan’s urban setting presents both opportunities, and challenges. As reported by the Chosun Ilbo, Here’s the first time South Korea has established a national park within a major metropolitan area. This model aims to balance the preservation of natural ecosystems with the recreational needs of urban populations.
This approach is particularly relevant in a country with a high population density like South Korea, where access to nature is often limited. The creation of an urban national park allows residents to experience the benefits of nature without having to travel long distances. It also provides opportunities for environmental education and promotes a greater awareness of the importance of conservation.
Implications for Climate Change Mitigation and Local Communities
National parks play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by acting as significant carbon sinks. Geumjeongsan, with its extensive forest cover, is expected to contribute to South Korea’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The park’s ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, water purification, and air quality regulation, are increasingly recognized as vital components of a sustainable urban environment.
The designation is also expected to have positive economic impacts on local communities. Increased tourism and recreational opportunities are likely to generate revenue for businesses in the surrounding areas. However, careful planning and management will be essential to ensure that these benefits are shared equitably and that the park’s ecological integrity is not compromised. According to No Cut News, the establishment of the park will require careful consideration of the balance between conservation and the needs of local residents.
Challenges and Future Management
The establishment of Geumjeongsan National Park is just the first step. Effective management will be crucial to address the unique challenges posed by its urban location. These challenges include managing visitor impacts, controlling invasive species, and mitigating pollution from surrounding urban areas. The newly formed Geumjeongsan National Park Office will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive management plan that addresses these issues.
The National Park Corporation will need to collaborate closely with local communities, government agencies, and environmental organizations to ensure the long-term sustainability of the park. Public participation in decision-making processes will be essential to build support for conservation efforts and to address any concerns that may arise. The success of Geumjeongsan National Park will serve as a model for future urban conservation initiatives in South Korea and around the world.
The designation of Geumjeongsan as a national park represents a significant milestone in South Korea’s conservation efforts. It demonstrates a commitment to protecting biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and providing access to nature for all citizens. As the first urban national park in the country, Geumjeongsan is poised to become a beacon of sustainable development and a source of pride for the people of Busan and beyond.
The next key step will be the release of the full Geumjeongsan National Park Management Plan, expected by the end of 2026, outlining specific strategies for conservation and sustainable tourism. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this exciting development and to explore the natural beauty of Geumjeongsan responsibly.