• Korean Journal of Plant Resources
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• v.37 no.2
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• pp.171-202
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• 2024

If the plant genetic resources and information-sharing systems held by arboretums worldwide are effectively utilized, it is believed that a conservation system for plant diversity in the currently inaccessible North Korean region could be established. This study was conducted to review the scientific names of plants native to North Korea but not to South Korea and to assess the status of genetic resources held in domestic and international arboretums. To compile a list and status of North Korean plant's genetic resources, updated checklists of vascular plants in Korean Peninsula and online plant information databases were consulted to compile synonym, distribution range, and other related information. A total of 486 taxa (449 species, 13 subspecies, 21 varieties, 1 forma and 2 hybrids) from 236 genera and 64 families, representing 12.34% of the total native flora of the Korean Peninsular were presented in the North Korea plant list, and the presence of rare, endemic and northern lineage species was confirmed. It was found that 384 taxa from 190 genera, 53 families of North Korean plants are held as genetic resources in 333 arboretums and plant research institutions across 46 countries and 5 continents worldwide. This study is expected to contribute to the construction and application of a species list for plants native to the Korean Peninsula.