Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats
Country
Republic of Korea (South Korea)
Inscribed in
2021
Criterion
(x)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "good with some concerns" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
Situated in the eastern Yellow Sea on the southwestern and southern coast of the Republic of Korea, the site comprises four component parts: Seocheon Getbol, Gochang Getbol, Shinan Getbol and Boseong-Suncheon Getbol. The site exhibits a complex combination of geological, oceanographic and climatologic conditions that have led to the development of coastal diverse sedimentary systems. Each component represents one of four tidal flat subtypes (estuarine type, open embayed type, archipelago type and semi-enclosed type). The site hosts high levels of biodiversity, with reports of 2,150 species of flora and fauna, including 22 globally threatened or near-threatened species. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Good with some concerns
Current state and trend of VALUES
Low Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Unique ecological and geological processes supporting intertidal and subtidal ecosystems
Criterion
(x)
The inscribed property is the largest tidal mudflat in the world. It encompasses the habitat of endangered species, unique communities of living organisms and geological and geomorphological features in intertidal and subtidal areas with waters up to 6 m deep (and up to 40 m in tidal channels). It is the only geo-heritage example of an island-studded tidal flat with a macrotidal range, set in a monsoonal environment and includes various types of tidal flats, namely estuarine type, open embayed type, archipelago type and semi-enclosed type. The site has a stable geodiversity for the past 8,500 years, which has resulted in the world’s largest and thickest Holocene mud sediments (Koh and Jonge, 2014; Lee et.al., 2022).
Rare and EAAF endemic birds including critically endangered species, important bird migration route
Criterion
(x)
The largest tidal mudflat serves as a core stopover site for feeding, breeding, and resting of migratory birds including 27 IUCN Red List species such as spoon-billed sandpipers (critically endangered species), on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (NIER, 2005; IUCN 2021; Lee et.al., 2023, 2024) . A total of 2,169 known species of flora and fauna including 375 species of benthic diatoms, 152 species of marine algae, 857 species of macrobenthos, 55 species of halophytes, 54 species of fish, and 137 species of waterbirds are further recorded within the multiple stable ecosystems of terrestrial, coastal and marine habitats found in the property (IUCN 2021; UNESCO 2021; World Heritage Promotion Team of Korean Tidal Flats, 2023).
Assessment information
Impact from proposed developmental activities especially the inter-island bridges and the Saemangeum airport (at a distance of 6 km from the WHS) on the OUV especially related to migratory birds need urgent immediate attention. Furthermore, marine litter and pollution of the tidal flats from inland sources is an increasing problem. Based on the current status of marine waste and marine pollutant sediment management, RoK Government, in 2021, established the 1st basic plan for marine waste and marine pollutant sediment management (2021-2030), which presents systematic management policy directions and tasks for each decade. The RoK government is continuously making efforts to reduce marine waste by preventing its generation and managing the entire cycle, including continuously expanding waste collection projects.
Roads, Trails & Railroads
(Bridge construction)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
As the world heritage property is located within a landscape of an island archipelago, before inscription, island-to-island bridge construction including (the proposed Jangsan-Jara island-to-island bridge; connecting National Route 77 through the Gochang Getbol) has been planned to meet essential needs of local communities. The potential impact of such infrastructure on heritage values was recognized from the start of the nomination process. A SEIA has been conducted to mitigate potential impacts on the property. Development projects in the buffer zone including resort and tourism development, renewable energy projects, and construction of an island-to-island bridge, have been reported. However, the SP has reported that EIAs have been conducted to evaluate the effects of the projects on migratory bird routes, waterbird habitats, and biodiversity. Mitigation measures are in place to ensure that the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) remains intact (Moores et.al., 2008; Park et.al., 2025). The SEA for the bridge project passing through the Gochang Getbol was completed in November 2024. In the upcoming EIA stage, the potential impact on the OUV and MPA will be assessed, and if any negative effects are identified, alternative route adjustments will be considered (Ministry of Environment, November 14, 2024). The exclusion of the Ganghwa Tidal Flat from the Phase II inscription was due to local communities opposition, driven by long-standing restrictions imposed by the World Cultural Heritage inscription in the Ganghwa region. The mentioned bridge project is not a confirmed administrative plan.
Commercial & Industrial Areas
(Construction of Saemangeum International Airport)
Outside site
The construction of Saemangeum International Airport, approximately 6 km south of the Seocheon Getbol boundary is likely to impact the values attributed to species especially the migratory birds (as well as increased risk of bird strikes). However, information on the project has been data deficient at present (Park et.al., 2025). The Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the Saemangeum Airport was completed on February 28, 2022. Currently, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is in progress, with various evaluations and reviews being conducted to assess potential impacts on the OUV of the World Natural Heritage site and measures to eliminate and/or mitigate indirect impacts on OUV are being discussed. The Saemangeum Tidal Flat was designated as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA). The construction of the Saemangeum New Airport is expected to significantly impact the migration and habitat of migratory birds that rely on this route such as plovers and sandpipers, that depend on the adjacent Seocheon and Gochang tidal flats.
Renewable Energy
(Offshore wind projects)
Outside site
Offshore wind and solar power generation has been promoted as part of government’s overall policy to attain carbon neutrality. The SP has reported mounting development pressure for offshore wind projects near the Shinan Getbol, alongside growing interest in solar installations on closed saltpans and abandoned aquaculture farms within the buffer zone. An EIA is being conducted and it has been proposed to install subsea cables associated with energy projects to minimize disturbance to sediment redistribution and hydrodynamic activities, and thus protect migratory bird habitats (Moores et.al., 2016; Moores et.al., 2019; Mu et.al., 2022). However, the recent Special Act on Promotion of Offshore Wind Power and Industry Development means there is now increasing pressure to locate offshore wind farms in areas very close to the World Heritage Site. The location of offshore wind farms is likely to be close to the boundary of the world heritage site, affecting migratory birds' flyways and home ranges. The construction of dense complexes can also interfere with the formation of tidal flats in terms of geomorphology. In addition, energy transmission lines from the energy farm to the land will indiscriminately cross the WH property (IUCN Consultation, 2025). The original national plan from the 2010s of an 8.2 GW offshore wind has gradually increased to a planned farm of 30 GW. It was planned to be located approximately 10-15km away from the boundary of the WHS but with the new Act, there could be an increase in applications for permits within 1km from the buffer zone. An environmental impact assessment system is needed that can eliminate or at least reduce the pressures caused by offshore wind power.
Garbage & Solid Waste
(Marine pollution)
Inside site
, Scattered(5-15%)
Outside site
Marine pollution is a major issue that is impacting all the component parts. Marine litter originates from both inland areas as well as internationally from marine sources. The country’s Marine Trash Management Basic Plan 2019-2023 aims to reduce marine waste by 50% by 2030. Another potential issue is pollution of the tidal flats from inland sources, though this may be mitigated by a network of sewage treatment plants in the area (IUCN, 2021). Marine waste comes from both land-based and oceanic sources. According to the 1st National Plan for the Management of Marine Waste and Marine Pollution Deposits, the government aims to reduce marine plastic waste generation by 60% from 2021 to 2030 (Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, 2021).
In 2024, local governments involved in the first phase of WH inscription have been working with the central government to collect hundreds to thousands of tons of marine waste annually in each region. Collected amounts include 4,402 tons in Seocheon County, 720 tons in Gochang County, 5,344 tons in Shinan County, 2,152 tons in Boseong County, and 397 tons in Suncheon City (Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, 2024). To protect the WH-listed tidal flats, Shinan County has designated 99.9% of its land as a livestock farming restriction zone and prohibited the construction of new livestock facilities (Shinan County, October 2024).
In 2024, local governments involved in the first phase of WH inscription have been working with the central government to collect hundreds to thousands of tons of marine waste annually in each region. Collected amounts include 4,402 tons in Seocheon County, 720 tons in Gochang County, 5,344 tons in Shinan County, 2,152 tons in Boseong County, and 397 tons in Suncheon City (Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, 2024). To protect the WH-listed tidal flats, Shinan County has designated 99.9% of its land as a livestock farming restriction zone and prohibited the construction of new livestock facilities (Shinan County, October 2024).
Fishing, Harvesting & Controlling Aquatic Species
(Aquaculture activities)
Other targeted species names
Mud Octopuses (Octopus minor), and deposit feeders like Japanese Mud Crabs (Macrophthalmus japonica), Fiddler Crabs (Uca lactea), and Polychaetes (bristle worms), Stimpson’s Ghost Crabs (Ocypode stimpsoni),
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
The site serves as a unique example of being a critical habitat for migratory birds as well as a livelihood resource for local fishers. Aquaculture, represented by laver, is actively being carried out around the low tide mark based on traditional methods. Aquaculture is managed by the law as a total quota system, and despite prolonged aquaculture activities, no notable sedimentological changes have been observed. According to the World Heritage Monitoring Plan, sedimentological change monitoring will be carried out every 10 years.” However, there is some evidence to suggest that due to prolonged aquaculture activities, there have been notable shifts in the sediment composition of the tidal flats (Lee et.al., 2022).
All potential threats are currently data deficient and require further investigation to determine the potential impacts on the site's OUV. It is to be expected that climate change, in combination with various infrastructure developments will put pressure on the site's biodiversity. Furthermore, the threat from invasive alien species needs to be carefully monitored as the likelihood of Cordgrass spread into the site is high with the potential of converting the tidal mudflat habitat.
Changes in Physical & Chemical Regimes, Changes in Temperature Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Climate change)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
The shift in sediment composition due to various anthropogenic activities and climate change poses a potentially significant and escalating risk to biodiversity within the property (Lee et.al., 2022). Boundaries and buffer zones should encompass the dynamic nature of these systems. The Fisheries Sector Climate Change Impact and Research Report, which anticipates rising sea temperatures, decreased salinity levels, reduced fishery catches, and lower primary productivity due to climate change, is published annually (National Institute of Fisheries Science, 2024). Nevertheless, research on the impact of climate change on the WH OUV remains insufficient and requires improvement.
Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Cordgrass Spartina alterniflora)
Other invasive species names
Spartina alterniflora
Outside site
The spread of alien invasive species of Cordgrass Spartina alterniflora has been reported from Yellow sea and also the Jindo area in Southern Korea (Choi. 2023b). This species has not been found within the property area to date. The ROK government is currently restraining the expansion of Spartina through removal projects and is conducting monitoring projects with local residents. Such control currently relies upon physical removal; the widespread use of herbicides as used in PRC has been rejected due to fears that it may have negative impacts on the harvesting of sea algae (IUCN, 2023). The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries designated Spartina alterniflora as an ecosystem-disturbing species in 2016. It has been observed in seven regions domestically, including the Ganghwa tidal flats and Seocheon Getbol, where physical removal efforts are underway (Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation, 2025.1). The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is continuously carrying out removal operations of Spartina alterniflora to maintain biodiversity in coastal wetlands and prevent the invasion of tidal flats. As a result, the habitat area of Spartina alterniflora in the Ganghwa tidal flats, which covered approximately 30,000㎡ in 2018, has decreased to 13,000㎡ by 2023. * Spartina alterniflora Habitat Status in Ganghwa Island: (2008) 480㎡ → (2018) 31,180㎡ → (2019) 29,472㎡ → (2023) 13,000㎡. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is conducting regular monitoring and removal operations of Spartina influx annually, targeting WH (likely intended to mean World Heritage Sites) and MPA (Marine Protected Areas) regions. There is potential for the species to affect the conversion of the tidal mudflat habitat if it is not effectively eradicated.
Changes in traditional ways of life and knowledge systems that result in negative impact
(Loss of traditional fishing methods and Getbol culture)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
The Getbol folk culture has increasingly become endangered and risks disappearance due to land reclamation, urbanization and industrialization (Hahm, et al 2014). Further, due to outmigration and an aging population, the traditional ‘hand over’ of the cultural ways are also at risk of disappearance.
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
Active involvement of local stakeholders has been taken prior to inscription and a management plan developed to ensure sustainable aquaculture practices that align with the conservation of heritage values (WH-Getbol, 2023). Festivals and World Heritage events with active local community participation have been organized to highlight the significance of the heritage designation and these have strengthened the collaborative relationship.
Legal framework
Adequate regulations under the Wetlands Conservation Act, Fisheries Act, Fishery Grounds Management Act, Public Waters Management and Reclamation Act, and Marine Ecosystem Conservation and Management Act, currently exist. The Act on the Sustainable Management and Restoration of Tidal Flats (Getbol) and Adjacent Areas Thereof (the Getbol Act) was enacted in January 2019 and came into force in January 2020, covering the comprehensive management, including protection and restoration, of tidal flats. Under the Getbol Act, The Master Plan on Management and Ecological Restoration of Tidal Flat and Adjacent Areas, first edition (2021-2025) was released in September 2021 (IUCN, 2019) The Plan includes three major goals: 1) Strengthen the scientific basis and integrated management of tidal flat threats; 2) Discover various values and enhance utility; 3) Systemize the entire cycle of tidal flat restoration. Within the heritage area, activities like seaweed farming and shellfish harvesting that could impact the site’s integrity, are strictly regulated under the Wetlands Conservation Act and are only permitted on a limited scale. Additionally, actions such as the introduction of invasive species, reclamation, and landfilling are prohibited. In the buffer zone, activities that may pollute the tidal waters or damage management facilities are stringently regulated, with permits required under the Public Waters Management and Reclamation Act and the Marine Ecosystem Conservation and Management Act. In addition, the Korea Heritage Service is preparing to implement the Heritage Impact Assessment System in accordance with the World Heritage Act (Seo, 2024).
Governance arrangements
The entire Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage is safeguarded under a robust national protection and management framework, governed by the Wetlands Conservation Act, Act on the Sustainable Management and Restoration of Tidal Flats (Getbol) and Adjacent Areas Thereof, and the Special Act on the Conservation, Management, and Utilization of World Heritage. The ‘World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (2023-2027) has also been prepared for the governance of the serial nomination. Each local government has allocated dedicated administrative departments and personnel responsible for safeguarding the heritage values (WH-Getbol,2023).
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
The entirety of the Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage is designated as Wetland Protected Areas under the Wetlands Conservation Act (1999), and is managed under an integrated and consistent protection and management system. Each local government, where the heritage site is located, has independently enacted ordinances to strengthen the protection and management of the heritage (Nomination Dossier, p. 172). Following the World Heritage inscription, the local governments jointly established the 'World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (2023-2027)' (Chungcheongnam-do, Jeollanam-do Provinces, Jeonbuk State) in November 2022, bringing together 14 institutions and 100 personnel related to conservation and management for the effective operation of the plan.
Boundaries
The current boundaries of the World Heritage site are considered adequate; however, it has been noted in the UNESCO decision document that an expansion of the buffer zone may be necessary to fully ensure the integrity of the property (UNESCO 2021). The wider setting of the heritage site is actively managed with the buffer zones and transitional areas of the biosphere reserve, inland Ramsar wetlands, and designated winter bird census areas, via various protective measures and management activities in place. The state party has submitted that research is being conducted on the migratory patterns and habitat range of migratory birds within and around the heritage site. Based on the research findings, the SP plans to expand the buffer zone as well as the nomination dossier for Phase II extension (UNESCO 2021). This is especially important to ensure provision of enough high tide roost sites and upper shore feeding areas for the waterbirds
Overlapping international designations
The heritage site is also managed as a RAMSAR site, Geopark and a Biosphere Reserve. The Basic Plan for Wetlands Conservation is developed at the national level, which serves as the basis for establishing conservation plans for each heritage site, including wetland protection areas (IUCN 2019; WH-Getbol 2023).
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
As per UNESCO 2021,Decision 44 COM 8B.6, several key actions include a) submission of a Phase II nomination dossier incorporating nine additional components, aimed at enhancing the OUV of the site; b) a proposal clearly defining the boundaries of each component in Phase II and, where necessary, expanding the boundaries for existing property and/or buffer zones to meet integrity requirements; c) development of an integrated management system with conservation plans for the heritage attributes at both national and local levels, encompassing the Phase II components; and d) an assessment to identify any additional developments that could adversely impact the key attributes of each heritage component. The SP has reported that the Phase II nomination dossier is being prepared to be reviewed at the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee in 2026. Further, the World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (November 2022) has been established as an integrated management framework for all stakeholders, including relevant central and local government agencies.The 'Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats Integrated Monitoring Manual’ has been published and being implemented .
Climate action
It is well recorded that coastal development has resulted in a decline of more than 65% of tidal flat area since the 1950s in the Yellow Sea including the inscribed property (Moores et al, 2019) Whether the decline is still ongoing due to climate change, pollution, overharvesting of natural resources and changes to feeder rivers is to be fully ascertained. It is expected that 'Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats Integrated Monitoring Manual’ being implemented will derive some results.
Management plan and overall management system
The site is currently being jointly managed. Following the World Heritage inscription, the local governments jointly established the 'World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (2023-2027)' (Choongnam Province, Jeonbuk Province, Jeonnam Province) in November 2022, bringing together 14 institutions and 100 personnel related to conservation and management for the effective operation of the plan. The ‘World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (2023-2027) has also been prepared for the governance of the serial nomination. Each local government has allocated dedicated administrative departments and personnel responsible for safeguarding the heritage values (WH-Getbol, 2023).
Law enforcement
The entirety of the Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage is designated as Wetland Protected Areas under the Wetlands Conservation Act (1999), and is managed under an integrated and consistent protection and management system. In addition, adequate regulations under the Wetlands Conservation Act, very important World Heritage Act, Fisheries Act, Fishery Grounds Management Act, Public Waters Management and Reclamation Act, and Marine Ecosystem Conservation and Management Act, currently exist.
Sustainable finance
Significant investments from both central and local governments for World Heritage conservation have remained consistently over 300% higher than pre-inscription levels. Before the inscription, the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries allocated an annual budget of approximately $2,645,150 for basic monitoring of tidal ecosystems and waterbird populations. The post-inscription budget now represents an increase of approximately 3.7 to 11.9 times, reflecting a well-supported investment to uphold the integrity and sustainability of the heritage site.
Staff capacity, training and development
The SP has reported that from 2021 through October 2024, a total of eight sessions have been conducted, training approximately 140 participants from the World Heritage Promotion Team of the Korean Tidal Flats Team and site-specific staff. The trainings are largely focused towards understanding the heritage values and strengthening the capacities of stakeholders in conservation and management.
Education and interpretation programmes
The Getbol World Heritage Center (GWHC) is being set up for inauguration in 2027, with a project budget of approximately $23,963,790 to integrate exhibition, education, research, and administrative management of the World Heritage site. Seocheon Getbol is also constructing a Marine Protected Area Visitor Center (2022-2026), while in Gochang Getbol, a World Heritage Area Center is being built from 2024 to 2026. Gochang Getbol, in particular, provides ecology education and eco-tourism programs for primary and middle school students, through initiatives such as the Gochang Getbol School and bird-watching programs. Adequate use of IEC material such as publications and interpretation material is being used. Eco-tour guides have been trained to serve as World Heritage guides (WH-Getbol, 2023).
Tourism and visitation management
While no direct studies have been conducted on visitor numbers specifically for heritage site visits, SP has reported an increase of approximately 46.8% compared to 2021, with a steady annual growth trend. As the site is open access, currently there is no method to obtain a precise visitor count (Mu et.al., 2022) and it remains to be seen to what extent tourism and visitation management is effective.
Sustainable use
While coastal development has resulted in a decline of more than 65% of the tidal flat area since the 1950s, it is still unclear whether remaining tidal flats and adjacent waters are negatively affected by pollution, overharvesting of natural resources and changes to feeder rivers (Moores et.al., 2019).
Monitoring
In Gochang Getbol, two citizen-participatory migratory bird monitoring programs have recorded a consistent rise in both the diversity and population of internationally protected species since the heritage designation (WH-Getbol, 2023). In Gochang Getbol, the community-driven Gochang Getbol Big Bird Race has enabled further monitoring, identifying additional 32 species of birds since the site’s inscription (WH-Getbol, 2023). These monitoring efforts combine traditional survey techniques with innovative methods, such as drone technology and tracking systems, to enhance the understanding of the site’s OUV. In the case of traditional fishing practises, the SP has reported that local administration is currently undertaking monitoring to understand the interactions between migratory birds and aquaculture and efforts are underway to designate specific management zones and to modernize aquaculture practices, such as fishing equipment and methods (UNESCO 2021). It is further reported that the Phase II nomination dossier is being prepared to be reviewed at the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee in 2026. Further, the World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (November 2022) has been established as an integrated management framework for all stakeholders, including relevant central and local government agencies. The 'Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats Integrated Monitoring Manual’ has been published and is being implemented (WH-Getbol, 2023; Lee et.al., 2024).
Research
The State Party has submitted that essential scientific research outcomes for the conservation and management of the site are regularly published in scientific journals and online platforms. The website (WH-Getbol, 2023) has an impressive collection of publications (https://www.getbolworldheritage.org/eng/library/). Peer-reviewed publications on migratory bird studies are also available in the public domain as provided in the reference list.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
From the report of proposed developmental activities such as the construction of Saemangeum International Airport, approximately 7 km south of the Seocheon Getbol boundary, inter-island bridges, development of tourism and recreation areas, it is evident that the integration of the protection of OUV within wider planning systems could be improved (Park et.al., 2025).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
As the entire Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage is designated as Wetland Protected Areas under the Wetlands Conservation Act (1999), and is managed under an integrated and consistent protection and management system, it can be assumed that the management effectiveness is adequate inside the site. Further, additional regulations under the Wetlands Conservation Act, Fisheries Act, Fishery Grounds Management Act, Public Waters Management and Reclamation Act, and Marine Ecosystem Conservation and Management Act, currently are the overarching regulations.
The site seems to be adequately protected and managed through a joint collaborative action under the 'World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (2023-2027). At the same time, the SP has committed towards further expansion with Phase II of the nomination and also strengthened the protection and management within the property. As the entire Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage is designated as Wetland Protected Areas under the Wetlands Conservation Act (1999), and is managed under an integrated and consistent protection and management system, it can be assumed that the management effectiveness is adequate inside the site. An increase in scientific information and conservation outreach especially for migratory birds through citizen science initiatives is also encouraging.
Good practice examples
The management of the serial site local governments jointly established the 'World Heritage Conservation, Management, and Utilization Implementation Plan (2023-2027)' in November 2022, bringing together 14 institutions and 100 personnel related to conservation and management for the effective operation of the plan (WH-Getbol, 2023).
Unique ecological and geological processes supporting intertidal and subtidal ecosystems
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
While throughout the 20th century, more than 50% of Getbol areas were lost due to coastal reclamation (Koh et.al. 2014; Choi, 2022, 2023), the current protection status and stringent regulations especially since its inscription as a world heritage site have led to a halt on the reclamation activities within the property (Moores et.al., 2019)
Rare and EAAF endemic birds including critically endangered species, important bird migration route
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
Within the inscribed site, stringent laws and joint management under Wetlands Conservation Act (1999), World Heritage Act, Fisheries Act, Fishery Grounds Management Act, Public Waters Management and Reclamation Act, and Marine Ecosystem Conservation and Management Act, are in place. 2 citizen-participatory migratory bird monitoring programs have recorded a consistent rise in both the diversity and population of internationally protected species since the heritage designation (WH-Getbol, 2023). However, potential threats to migratory birds from vertical development (airport, bridges) have been reported (IUCN 2021). Further, the aspect of marine pollution may also impact the important feeding and stopover site for these birds. There is a serious shortage of high tide roost sites and upper shore feeding areas, including for Spoon-billed Sandpipers, which should be remedied by habitat restoration (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Stable
The coastal zones of the Republic of Korea have been severely impacted by past reclamation projects with an overall decline of 65% of tidal flat area since the 1950s. However, in the past few years, policy has shifted from large-scale reclamation towards tidal flat conservation and restoration. This is exemplified by the state party’s intention to inscribe 4 serial sites on the World heritage list and the formulation and implementation of multiple conservation-oriented regulations. 2 citizen-participatory migratory bird monitoring programs have recorded a consistent rise in both the diversity and population of internationally protected species since the heritage designation. The development of linear infrastructure especially outside the site would need further verification and monitoring.
Additional information
Traditional tidal flat fishing systems have shaped the geo-heritage values of the landscape and the communities. The protected site also ensures natural protection against storm surges and rising sea levels to sustaining fisheries (Chung et al 2015). The World Heritage site offers a crucial foundation for collaborative avian research, contributing significantly to global biodiversity sustainability. Broadly, the heritage serves as a valuable resource for extensive research, as well as for educational programs aimed at enhancing awareness among local communities and visitors across each component (IUCN 2019; UNESCO 2021).A considerable workforce of both professional and non-professional staff has been employed to support the administrative and research-driven efforts essential for the conservation and management of the heritage site. Additionally, the promotion of tourism linked to the heritage site provides substantial employment opportunities for local governments and serves as a crucial revenue generator, contributing significantly to local community development (IUCN 2019).
| № | Organization | Brief description of Active Projects | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mutiple agencies | Performs the mission to promote and support the tasks related to the inscription of Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats as a World Heritage Site, and the conservation management of the property after its inscription. |
https://www.getbolworldheritage.org/eng/library/
|
References
| № | References |
|---|---|
| 1 |
Choi, H.A. and Han, D. (2023). Pan-Yellow Sea Cooperation for the Conservation of Ecosystems in Coastal Wetlands of Yellow Sea-Focusing on the World Natural Heritage of coastal wetland. Journal of Wetlands Research, 25(3), pp.213-219.
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| 2 |
Choi, Y.R. (2019). Profitable tidal flats, governable fishing communities: Assembling tidal flat fisheries in post-crisis South Korea. Political Geography, 72, pp.20-30.
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| 3 |
Choi, Y.R. (2022). Slippery ontologies of tidal flats. Environment and Planning E: Nature and Space, 5(1), pp.340-361.
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| 4 |
Choi, Y.R. (2023a). The colonizers, the developmental state, and uneven geography of development: Reclamation of South Korea's tidal flats, 1900s-1980s. Journal of Historical Geography, 82, pp.23-37.
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| 5 |
Choi, Y.R. (2023b). How to stay with the trouble: Spartina invasion and management in the tidal flats of the Yellow Sea. Coastal Studies & Society, 2(3), pp.311-328.
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| 6 |
Chung, M.G., Kang, H. and Choi, S.U. (2015). Assessment of coastal ecosystem services for conservation strategies in South Korea. PLoS One, 10(7), p.e0133856.
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| 7 |
Garnett, S., J. Szabo, and G. Dutson. (2011). The action plan for Australian birds 2010. CSIRO Publishing, Clayton, Australia. https://doi.org/10.1071/9780643103696
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| 8 |
Hahm, H., Jeong, S., Jeong, M. and Park, S.C. (2014). Cultural resources and management in the coastal regions along the Korean tidal flat. Ocean & coastal management, 102, pp.506-521.
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| 9 |
IUCN (2021). IUCN Technical Evaluation – Getbol, Korean Tidal Flat (Republic of Korea). Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/176195 (access date 5.03.2025)
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| 10 |
IUCN (2023). The 2023 IUCN Situation analysis on ecosystems of the Yellow Sea with particular reference to intertidal and associated coastal habitats. Bangkok, Thailand: IUCN.
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| 11 |
Kim, S.J. (2024). Nature-Culture Integrated Conservation and Management Centered on World Heritage Sites for Sustainable Development: A Cast Study of Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats. Journal of the Economic Geographical Society of Korea, 27(3), pp.223-239.
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| 12 |
Koh, C.H. and de Jonge, V.N. (2014). Stopping the disastrous embankments of coastal wetlands by implementing effective management principles: Yellow Sea and Korea compared to the European Wadden Sea. Ocean & coastal management, 102, pp.604-621.
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| 13 |
Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation (2025). Marine environment information system(MEIS, MOF). January 2025. Available at: https://www.meis.go.kr/mli/intro/learn.do
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| 14 |
Lee, J., Ryu, J.H., Kim, K. and Jang, Y.J. (2022). Near real-time automatic detection of the tidal flat topography change in the Eastern Yellow Sea using multiple satellites: preliminary result. In AGU Fall Meeting 2022. American Geophysical Union.
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| 15 |
Lee, J.H., Kim, I.C., Lee, S.W., Son, J.J., Jang, J.U. and Sung, H.C. (2023). International importance of tidal flats in the Republic of Korea as shorebird stopover sites in the East Asian–Australasian flyway. Avian Conservation and Ecology, 18(1).
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