• Journal of Environmental Policy
• /
• v.6 no.2
• /
• pp.71-96
• /
• 2007

This study aimed at effectively applying the IUCN category system to the protected areas in Korea. In addition, in order to change IUCN category of national parks to IUCN category II and to review the application of IUCN category classification key, a case study was conducted in Sobaeksan National Park. In order to apply the IUCN category system to the protected areas in Korea, a flexible approach appropriate to characteristics in Korea is required for management objectives of protected areas, including protection of wildemess, sustainable use of resources and preservation of cultural and traditional features. In addition, considerations of restrictions on use area and use districts, relative comparison of use types (visit, use of resources, residence) by IUCN category and use of combined classifications are necessary. Principles for the application of the IUCN category include (1)exclusion of wilderness protected areas (Ib), (2) extremely limited use regarding the sustainable use of natural resources(sum of natural preservation area and natural environment area is over 95%), (3) considerations of management conditions, including residential occupation level, (4) preservation of ecosystem services, and (5) use of combined classifications. In addition, in accordance with these principles, IUCN category classification key was suggested. When this was applied to the case study area, Sobaeksan National Park was classified as IUCN Category II and Taxus cuspidata community, which is designated as a natural monument, was classified to be Category Ia. Classification key suggested in this study may be used as basic data for applying categories in the future. Since detailed review on the practical improvement direction of laws and regulations and systematic alternatives, which are required before introducing IUCN category, are poor, in order to manage the protected areas efficiently by applying the IUCN category in the future, studies on management means appropriate to the conservation objectives of each category are necessary. This would allow management differentiated for each category.