Mount Paektu, or Baekdu, is an active stratovolcano located on the border of North Korea and China. Most recently, it received a designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark. This significant recognition marks North Korea’s first natural site to be included on the UNESCO list and underscores the mountain’s geological and cultural importance. Mount Paektu, or Changbai Shan, is the highest peak on the Korean peninsula. It serves as a core element of North Korea’s identity and mythology.
The designation was made upon recommendation by the executive board of UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. They detailed the mountain’s volcanic history, glacially-eroded valleys, and terrestrial tundra as prime components pushing its global importance. This UNESCO designation is the latest step in a concerted effort by North Korean leadership to showcase the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) historical and cultural landmarks.
Cultural Significance of Mount Paektu
Mount Paektu is at the center of North Korea’s foundation myth, making it a national altar for the country. The ruling Kim dynasty has placed the mountain on a pedestal in North Korean culture. Yet, they shrewdly employ its myths to strengthen their own power. Inside North Korean propaganda, the Kim family has historically been tied to the mountain’s ugliness and mythical excellence.
North Korean society intensely values racial purity, and state propaganda celebrates the “Mount Paektu bloodline.” That legacy does indeed come with a noble and heroic pedigree. It pretends to be related to the mythical changwang, who first unified and civilised the Korean peninsula. To many, the mountain becomes more than just a physical landmark. It is a unifying symbol of national pride.
According to North Korean legend, Mount Paektu is the birthplace of Dangun, the purportedly mythical founder of Korea’s first kingdom. The story of Dangun therefore becomes an essential part of developing a national identity where history mingles freely with mythology. North Korea claims that former North Korean leader, and father of current leader Kim Jong Un, Kim Jong Il was born on or around the summit of Paektu. This assertion increases the mountain’s cultural importance in the eyes of its people.
Geological Importance
Mount Paektu is known throughout East Asia for its breathtaking geological beauty. One of its main attractions is Lake Chon, a deep crater lake that lies nearly 7,200 feet above sea level. Lake Chon was formed by a colossal eruption more than a thousand years ago. Today, it remains an incredible natural wonder that adds to the beauty of the mountain. The lake was created by one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history. This monumental event became official in 946 CE.
The UNESCO designation acknowledges Mount Paektu not only for its cultural significance but its geological significance. The mountain’s volcanic activity has shaped the surrounding landscape, creating valleys and plains that are of interest to scientists and geologists worldwide. The value of the area’s unique geological features as a natural laboratory, living classroom and learning lab.
The designation of Mount Paektu as a Global Geopark is indicative of increasing global concern for the protection of sites of international natural significance. UNESCO’s recognition may encourage further exploration and study of the region’s geological history while promoting responsible tourism.
Limited Access and International Recognition
Mount Paektu is a site of grand historical significance and access has been highly controlled, especially for those living in South Korea. Select individuals have been granted permission to visit this iconic site, including North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Moon expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to visit the mountain during his trip, stating:
“I wondered if I was ever going to have a chance (to come here) but my wish has come true.” – Moon Jae-in
Scarce access to the sacred mountain fosters an exclusive feel. It further showcases its importance as a political and cultural symbol to Koreans in both the North and the South. The recent UNESCO designation will likely lead to increased pressure for greater access to Mount Paektu by scientists and potential tourists not on Pyongyang’s waiting list.
Mount Paektu is becoming an international tourist hotspot. This emphasizes the inseparable and dialectical nature of culture, politics, and nature. The mountain is a beautiful geological marvel. It is a strong enough symbol that it carries meaningful weight that resonates throughout North Korea’s national psyche.
