2018 DMZ International Forum was held on 6-7 September in the Uijeongbu Arts Center with the topic of “Connecting People and Nature for Peace: Ecosystem Conservation and Sustainable Development in DMZ areas”. This Forum was jointly organized by Gyeonggi Province and ESP Asia RO. Dr. Rudolf de Groot, the chair of ESP gave a welcoming speech. The domestic and International experts from prestigious international organizations such as UNESCO and UNEP-WCMC presented their work and cases about the designation and management of the protected areas as well as the cooperation with the local community. In the panel discussions, active discussion took place about the ways to preserve the ecosystem and biodiversity of the demilitarized zone (DMZ) areas between North and South Korea. The designation of the DMZ areas as the protected area is very critical, but also cooperation between North and South Korea is important in the protection and sustainable development of DMZ areas. On the excursion on the second day, participants visited the historical, cultural, and environmental places in Yeoncheon province. The most fascinating spot was Taepung Observatory where one can see the DMZ, the untouched land for 60 years with bare eyes. The official meeting took place with governor and officials of Yeoncheon province working for its designation as Geopark and Biosphere Reserve.
