• Journal of the Korean earth science society
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• v.27 no.2
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• pp.236-246
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• 2006

On the basis of field observation, geology of the footprints site consists of the Kwanghaeak Basalt, unnamed strata, Songaksan Tuff, Hamori Formation, and Sand Dune, in ascending order at the Hamori-Songaksan area and the Kwanghaeak Basalt, the hominid footprints-bearing strata, and Dune Sand are consisted in ascending order at the Sagaeri area. According to the designation that the Hamori Formation overlies the Songaksan Tuff, age dating results, and geologic sequence observed in the field, the strata containing hominid footprints are not correlated with the Hamori Formation but the unnamed strata, though the strata are shown as the Hamori Formation in the geologic map. It seems to be more reasonable that the geologic age of the footprints-bearing strata is thought to be around ca 15,000 yrs B.P. according to the results of $^{14}C$ dating.

• Journal of the Korean earth science society
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• v.30 no.5
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• pp.581-587
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• 2009

This study intended to the optimal conservation method and to make an application scheme for the fossil locality of the Quaternary Hamori Formation at the northeastern coast of Mt. Songak. Many kinds of innumerable fossils are found from the Hamori Formation in the study area: Footprints of hominid, trace fossils of invertebrates, bird, artiodactyla, proboscidea, carnivores, unclassified footprints, and body fossils (arthropoda, gastropoda, mollusca, and plants). The formation has been outcropped and eroded out with innumerous fossils by the strong wave action of storm and typhoon. Korean government recognized the dangerous situation of the important fossils and decided to conserve the formation for the national heritage. Method D1 (conservation hall or museum on the fossil locality) may be the best way to protect the fossil locality from all the natural activities and to do the research, exhibition, education, and sightseeing together. The application of the geologic materials from the fossil locality should preferentially focus on the collection and research which should be accompanied by exhibition, education, and sightseeing. The application scheme may be stepped into three stages during 10 years: (1) systematic conservation and publicity during 2005-2007, (2) establishment of wellorganized museum during 2008-2010, and (3) international museum with the optimized roles 2011-2014.

• Journal of the Korean earth science society
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• v.44 no.6
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• pp.533-539
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• 2023

This article reviews a few academic discussions in our geological society. The author presents his opinion on the discussions regarding the ages of the Okcheon Group, Myogog Formation, and hominid footprints of the Jeju Island, as well as on the inaccurate reportage in mass media. The academia advances via healthy debates and discussions. The arguments for and against Darwin's "Origin of Species" and scientific debates regarding Wegener's "Continental Drift Hypothesis" are well known. In academic debates or discussions, authority should not be involved in any form. Academic research should be conducted based on scientific principles and evidence-free of personal preferences or other nonacademic factors. Opponents should challenge with scientific approaches, suggesting alternatives based on science. Opposition without scientific basis is not productive in conducting academic research in search of scientific truth. Often, the news media delivers inaccurate information to the public-intentionally or unintentionally. There must be a mechanism to immediately identify and rectify inaccurate, false, or fake information for the benefit of the public and the credibility of the news media.