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North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is home to a surprising array of natural beauty and ecological diversity, despite its reputation as one of the most secretive nations in the world. The country is home to six officially designated national parks, each showcasing unique landscapes that range from mountainous terrains to coastal ecosystems. These protected areas, though rarely accessible to outsiders, play a crucial role in preserving North Korea’s natural heritage.
Among the most notable is Mount Kumgang National Park, renowned for its dramatic granite peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Known as the “Diamond Mountains,” this park holds cultural and spiritual significance for Koreans and is celebrated for its breathtaking seasonal changes. The flora and fauna here are diverse, with endemic species thriving in its well-preserved environment. While access to the park has historically been limited to carefully controlled tours, its natural splendor makes it one of the most talked-about destinations in North Korea.
Mount Myohyang National Park, another highlight, is named after its “mystical fragrant mountain” and is famous for its striking ridges and deep valleys. The area is also a cultural treasure trove, with sites like the International Friendship Exhibition housing gifts to North Korean leaders. The park’s mix of natural and cultural attractions adds to its significance, offering a blend of biodiversity and human history.
Paektu Mountain National Park is centered around the iconic Mount Paektu, an active stratovolcano and the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula. The mountain and its surrounding areas, including Heaven Lake, are revered in Korean folklore and history. The park’s rugged beauty and unique volcanic features make it a geological and ecological gem, home to rare species adapted to its harsh environment.
Chilbosan National Park, less well-known but equally stunning, boasts striking coastal cliffs and ancient rock formations. The park is a haven for birdlife, including migratory species that rely on its protected coastal wetlands.
Conservation challenges in North Korea include limited scientific monitoring, lack of international collaboration, and resource constraints. However, the country’s tightly controlled development and limited industrial activity have inadvertently preserved vast stretches of wilderness. Recent efforts to engage with international environmental organizations have shown promise, with some initiatives aimed at enhancing the management of these national parks.
Despite its isolation, North Korea’s national parks reflect a rich natural heritage that deserves recognition. These parks serve as critical refuges for biodiversity and represent the country’s potential to balance conservation with sustainable development.
The first national park in North Korea is Mount Kumgang National Park, established in 1958. Located near the border with South Korea, this park was created to preserve the scenic beauty of the Kumgang Mountains.
Known for its dramatic granite peaks, clear waterfalls, and ancient temples, Mount Kumgang is a symbol of Korea’s natural and cultural heritage.
Mount Paektu Biosphere Reserve is the largest national park in North Korea, covering approximately 530 square miles (1,373 square kilometers).
Situated on the border with China, Mount Paektu is an active volcano and the highest peak in Korea, standing at 9,003 feet (2,744 meters). The park encompasses vast forests, alpine meadows, and Heaven Lake, playing a vital role in biodiversity conservation.
One of the smaller parks in North Korea is Myohyangsan National Park, which spans around 120 square miles (311 square kilometers).
Located in the northwest, this park is known for its scenic beauty, featuring mystical granite peaks and deep gorges. It is also home to historical sites like the International Friendship Exhibition, which showcases North Korea’s cultural ties with other countries.
Mount Kumgang National Park is the most popular national park in North Korea, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and cultural significance.
The park’s main attractions include the Kumgang Mountains, with their jagged peaks and scenic trails, the serene Kuryong Waterfall, and ancient Buddhist temples.
The park offers opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring its natural and historical treasures, making it a popular destination for both locals and select international visitors.
The stunning landscapes and cultural heritage make Mount Kumgang a centerpiece of North Korea’s natural tourism.
Around 5.6% of North Korea’s land area is protected through national parks and nature reserves. This covers approximately 5,800 square miles (15,000 square kilometers), and these areas are designed to preserve the country’s natural landscapes, including its forests, mountains, and wildlife.
In addition to national parks, North Korea has several nature reserves and conservation areas aimed at preserving its biodiversity.
The Mount Paektu Biosphere Reserve, for example, surrounds the sacred Mount Paektu and is an important area for the conservation of both flora and fauna, including rare plant species and Siberian tigers.
The Rason Migratory Bird Reserve is another significant protected area, focusing on the conservation of wetlands and migratory bird habitats. North Korea also protects parts of its coastline and marine life through marine reserves.
North Korea offers several natural attractions outside of its national parks. Mount Paektu, the highest mountain in the Korean Peninsula, is considered sacred and features a volcanic crater lake called Heaven Lake, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
The Chilbosan Mountains, located in the northeast, are known for their dramatic rock formations and vibrant autumn colors.
The Taedong River, which flows through Pyongyang, offers scenic views of the capital, with the Arch of Triumph and other landmarks along its banks. Additionally, the Sindo Archipelago provides coastal beauty and opportunities to explore lesser-known natural environments.
North Korea is home to several unique species, particularly those adapted to its mountainous and forested regions. The Korean goral, a goat-antelope species, is found in the rugged mountains of the peninsula.
The Amur leopard, while critically endangered, has been sighted in North Korea’s northeastern forests, and the Siberian tiger is another significant species that has historically inhabited North Korea’s forests.
Several endemic plant species, such as the Korean pine and various species of wildflowers, thrive in the country’s diverse ecosystems.
North Korea’s main international airport is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (IATA code: FNJ), located near the capital, Pyongyang. It serves as the country’s primary hub for international travel, though international flights to and from North Korea are limited.
The following international airline companies fly into North Korea:
North Korea’s national parks and protected areas are managed by the Ministry of Land and Environment Protection. This governmental body oversees the conservation of natural landscapes, wildlife, and biodiversity within the country.
The ministry works with various international organizations, such as the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme, particularly for areas like Mount Paektu Biosphere Reserve.
