News
Forest Fires and Reforestation

(Yonhap)

Starting on March 4, 2022, the eastern coast of South Korea has been hit by devastating wildfires. The blaze, of which the cause is still unknown, first broke out in Uljin city and, due to dry weather and strong winds, was able to spread north into Gangwon province. The main fire could not be extinguished until 213 hours later, i.e., after more than eight days. Especially in Uljin, Samcheok, Gangneung and Donghae, it caused great damage and an estimated 20,923 hectares of forest have been destroyed. It is the country's most devastating fire on record.

Goseong County Reforestation Project

In the past, the region has been struck by massive forest fires multiple times. The Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea has been involved in a reforestation project in their partner district of Goseong, located close to the border regions of the DMZ, which has also suffered great damage from forest fires in 2018 and 2019, when huge areas of forest were destroyed. Starting in May 2020, in cooperation with HSF Korea, a mixed forest of red pine, Korean pine, Mongolian oak and sweet chestnut has successfully been planted in an area south of the district. HSF Korea will continuously support forest restoration and tree planting.

Goseong county and the HSF Korea have been partnering for the sustainable development of the inner Korean border region since 2005. Other past projects in the region included the establishment of an eco-corridor for amphibians in form of a frog ladder.

There are several upcoming events regarding the topics forest and afforestation. For the upcoming international day of forests on the 21st of March, the FAO has planned an online seminar event on ‘Sustainable wood for people and the planet’. For details, please check the following link.

Additionally, the XV World Forestry Congress will take place between May 2 to May 6,2022 in South Korea. Please click here for more information.