Wildlife returns to Palgongsan National Park after 70 years of illegal prayer sites removed

After a three-month effort, two illegal prayer sites within Palgongsan National Park have been cleared and restored to their natural state. The sites, located in the Dohak-dong valley, had been used for over 70 years and were filled with 92 illegal structures, including shelters, bridges, and altars.

The National Park Authority collaborated with relevant agencies to persuade the occupants to voluntarily dismantle their structures and leave. The removal of these facilities and the restoration of the valley were completed in May. During the restoration, approximately 356 tons of debris and waste concrete were removed. Natural stones that had been moved were returned to the stream to help return the landscape to its original condition.

Subsequent ecological observations using unmanned cameras from early June to early August revealed the return of various wildlife. A total of 17 species were observed, including the endangered Siberian weasel and goshawk, along with six mammal species and eleven bird species. The park authority intends to maintain this recovery by operating an unmanned entry system and conducting regular patrols, while continuing ecological monitoring with sensor cameras.

Joo Dae-young, president of the National Park Authority, stated, "As a result of removing illegal facilities and returning the damaged valley to nature, the use of the area by diverse wildlife, including Siberian weasels and goshawks, has been confirmed. We will continue to systematically manage the park's damaged areas and help nature recover on its own."

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As a result of removing illegal facilities and returning the damaged valley to nature, the use of the area by diverse wildlife, including Siberian weasels and goshawks, has been confirmed. We will continue to systematically manage the park's damaged areas and help nature recover on its own.