Publications
Stable isotope signatures of precipitation and implications for groundwater recharge on Jeju volcanic island, South Korea
High-altitude summer rainfall on Jeju Island, South Korea, serves as the dominant source of groundwater recharge, with rapid flow pathways transporting depleted isotopic signatures from northern slopes to coastal areas. This finding emerges from a stable isotope analysis of oxygen (δ¹⁸O) and hydrogen (δ²H) in monthly precipitation and groundwater, revealing distinct seasonal variability linked to monsoon patterns. Northern-slope precipitation exhibited lower δ¹⁸O values and d-excess, mirroring the isotopic signatures found in groundwater, which suggests preferential flow dynamics. The study underscores the critical role of long-term isotope monitoring in understanding and managing groundwater resources on volcanic islands with unique hydrogeological characteristics.
Characterization of the groundwater system of Jeju volcanic island, Korea, using environmental tracers: a review
A comprehensive review reveals that environmental tracers are pivotal in unraveling the groundwater dynamics of Jeju Island. These tracers have successfully categorized groundwater processes into six key areas: recharge, flow dynamics, age dating, nitrate sources, salinization, and submarine discharge. The study highlights the effectiveness of these methods while acknowledging their limitations, suggesting innovative approaches to overcome challenges and guide future research. This synthesis provides a robust framework for understanding and managing Jeju Island's critical freshwater resource.
Hydrogeologic Heterogeneity Impacts on Fresh–Saltwater Interaction in Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea
Hydrogeological heterogeneity significantly influences fresh-saltwater interactions in coastal aquifers, particularly in volcanic regions like Jeju Island. Research reveals that the shape of the fresh-saltwater transition zone (FSTZ) varies distinctly between hyaloclastite and lava layers, with a sharp interface forming in hyaloclastite due to conduit flow through highly permeable layers. This flow acts as a preferential pathway for rapid groundwater discharge, disrupting tidal signals on specific conductance (SC). Conversely, lava layers exhibit a step-like FSTZ, where boundary flows create more complex interactions, showing stronger associations between tides and SC. The study employed geological logs, geophysical logging, and time series analysis of groundwater levels and multi-depth SC to propose a conceptual hydrogeological model that integrates these volcanic structures. This work underscores the critical role of geological heterogeneity in shaping coastal aquifer dynamics in volcanic environments.
Application of the MELTS program to the fractional crystallization of low-alumina alkaline magma on Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea
Research on Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea, reveals that the fractional crystallization of low-alumina alkaline magma most likely occurred at pressures between 0.2 and 0.1 GPa and under oxygen fugacities close to the FMQ buffer, with an H₂O content of 0.5 wt.% best matching natural rock evolution trends. The study applied MELTS, a computational tool for modeling magmatic processes, across varying pressures (2.0–0.1 GPa), oxygen fugacities (FMQ-3 to FMQ+3), and H₂O contents. While MELTS demonstrated effectiveness in predicting temperature, pressure, and other crystallization factors, its limitations—such as spinel overestimation and lack of hydrous mineral experiments—highlight the need for complementary analyses when assessing magmatic processes. This work provides critical insights into the volcanic evolution of Jeju Island.
Korean geoheritage: the volcanic landforms of the Jeju Island UNESCO Global Geopark
Recent research challenges long-standing interpretations of Jeju Island's volcanic landforms, revealing that Mt. Hallasan is not a typical shield volcano but a polygenetic and composite volcano formed through Strombolian eruptions, lava effusions, and magma intrusions between 200,000 to 17,000 years ago. Additionally, Biyangdo Island (Biyangbong), previously thought to be a single scoria cone from a thousand years ago, is now understood to have formed through subaerial volcanic eruptions 26,000 years ago, producing both a scoria and spatter cone. The study integrates the latest findings on other significant geosites, such as Suwolbong Tuff Cone and Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Ring, within Jeju Island's UNESCO Global Geopark. It emphasizes the importance of public awareness and regular monitoring to mitigate climate change impacts, including rockfalls at coastal sites and freeze-thaw weathering on Mt. Hallasan, ensuring sustainable protection of this unique geoheritage.
Morphological analysis of volcanic cones and its implication to Quaternary tectonics of the Jeju Island (South Korea)
Research on Jeju Volcanic Island reveals that the morphological characteristics of its volcanic cones are influenced by subsurface fractures, which are often concealed beneath layers of volcanic rocks. The study identified two dominant types of Pre-Pleistocene magma-feeding fractures: E-W and NE/ENE-trending, consistent with previously documented tectonic structures. These findings suggest a potential link to the rotation of maximum horizontal stress direction (σHmax), providing critical insights into the island's seismic hazard assessment. To uncover these hidden structures, the study employed morphometric analysis, measuring parameters such as ellipticity, crater diameter, and cone alignment on 152 Quaternary volcanic craters. This approach offers a novel method for inferring subsurface fractures in volcanically active regions like Jeju Island.
Multi-stage volcanic eruption of Seongsan Ilchulbong tuff cone, Jeju Island
Recent research reveals that Seongsan Ilchulbong, a Surtseyan tuff cone on Jeju Island, was formed through multiple volcanic eruptions rather than a single event. The study identified two overlapping craters, indicating prior volcanic activity before the current structure's formation. Using multibeam echo sounding, sparker seismic reflection data, and chemical analysis of core samples, scientists mapped the seafloor around Seongsan Ilchulbong, discovering a tabular protrusion 600 meters southeast of the cone. This feature, composed of volcanic rocks like tuff and scoria, suggests an earlier eruption sequence where magma supply shifted westward, leading to the current complex structure. The findings redefine the geological history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, showing it evolved through five distinct stages over millennia, including coastal marine eruptions, magmatic transitions, and eventual erosion by ocean waves.
A Numerical Approach to Evaluating Groundwater Vulnerability to Seawater Intrusion on Jeju Volcanic Island, South Korea
Groundwater vulnerability to seawater intrusion (SWI) on Jeju Volcanic Island, South Korea, varies significantly by region, with the eastern and northern areas showing the highest risk. This finding stems from a novel numerical approach that parametrized five factors—hydraulic conductivity, groundwater level, distance from shoreline to wells, well depth, and groundwater use—and correlated them with groundwater electrical conductivity as an indicator of salinization. The study identified groundwater use, well depth, and groundwater level as the most significant parameters influencing SWI vulnerability. Using spatial analyses and ratings, it developed a numerical model that classified vulnerability into weak, moderate, and high categories, providing actionable insights for targeted preventive measures. Regional differences in land-use, industrial activities, population density, and urbanization further emphasized the need for tailored strategies to mitigate SWI risks.
Characteristics of vegetation according to the micro-climatic conditions of a lava pit on Jeju Island
Vegetation characteristics on Jeju Island's Geomunoreum lava tube system vary significantly with microclimatic conditions. The study found that areas with stable temperature and humidity, such as the lower pit (plot 3) and outer flattening-out regions (plots 6 and 7), exhibit simpler vegetation structures with high mortality and low growth rates in the former, while the latter shows diverse competing species and high growth rates. Midpoint areas (plots 2 and 4) display transitions in dominant tree species but stable shrub and subtree layers. Higher areas (plots 1 and 5) show frequent changes across all vegetation layers. These patterns differ from other lava pits on the island, highlighting the unique microclimatic influence on vegetation structure and dynamics.
Geology of coastal region around Seogwipo, Jeju Island (1): 40Ar/39Ar ages of lava flows and volcanic activities
A new study reveals the volcanic activity timeline of Jeju Island's coastal region around Seogwipo, using 40Ar/39Ar dating to determine lava flow ages ranging from 107.4±1.5 ka to 826.3±3.0 ka. The research identifies nine distinct lava flows and five sedimentary layers, providing precise depositional age constraints for the Seogwipo Formation (429.9±4.4 ka to 427.3±1.4 ka). The findings suggest that volcanic activity during this period was linked to structural movements in a extensional tectonic environment around Jeju Island. The study also highlights the need for further geophysical exploration to better understand the island's early volcanic structure.
The Liverwort and Hornwort Flora of Jeju Island, Republic of Korea: A Volcanic Island with a Unique Mixture of Subtropical, Temperate, Boreal, and Arctomontane Taxa
Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and volcanic island off the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, hosts a unique liverwort and hornwort flora that blends subtropical, temperate, boreal, and arctomontane taxa. This study identifies 222 taxa, including 86 species newly recorded for Jeju Island, highlighting its role as a crossroads between boreal and subtropical floras. Notable discoveries include the arctomontane Anthelia juratzkana and the first record of Cryptocoleopsis imbricata. The research, based on an analysis of 1697 specimens, provides a detailed checklist and underscores Jeju's ecological significance as a meeting point for diverse climatic elements. This finding enhances our understanding of the island's biodiversity and its adaptive strategies in a volcanic environment.
Hex Code-based Geological Cross-sections Describing Landscape Dynamics in the Jeju Geomunoreum Lava Tube System
Researchers have identified distinct differences between upstream and downstream caves within the Jeju Geomunoreum Lava Tube System (GLTS). Using hex codes to analyze microbial mat-influenced wall colors, they created detailed illustrations that capture the scale and geological features of six lava caves. This method provides a comprehensive visual representation of the GLTS's internal and external environments, including volcanic formations and vegetation, while adhering to strict conservation protocols for these fragile ecosystems.
Landforms in Old Landscape Paintings of Jeju Island, Korea, and Their Implications of Geomorphological Perception
A historical analysis of Jeju Island's landscape paintings reveals the first documented collection of significant geomorphological features, including volcanic edifices, lava tubes, fluvial landforms, and coastal structures. The study, based on Governor Lee Iktae's 1695 series 'Ten Scenic Views of Jeju,' highlights how these artworks captured both local and mainland perspectives, establishing enduring stereotypes for Jeju's landscapes. It also underscores the underestimation of certain features like lava tubes due to cultural perceptions and the limited inclusion of ecologically important landforms, reflecting the evaluation criteria of the time.
Session 2.1 Jeju volcanic island and lava tubes
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes, a National Park off South Korea's southern coast, presents a unique case study in balancing tourism growth with environmental sustainability. The island, formed by volcanic activity hundreds of thousands of years ago, is renowned for its lava tubes, beaches, and cultural heritage, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, rapid tourism development poses challenges such as increased pollution, energy demands, and transportation strains, particularly given the island's limited urban infrastructure with only two cities. The study highlights the need for sustainable strategies to mitigate these impacts while preserving the island's natural and cultural assets.
Study on an advanced borehole heat exchanger for ground source heat pump operating in volcanic island: Case study of Jeju island, South Korea
An advanced borehole heat exchanger significantly outperforms conventional designs on volcanic islands. In Jeju, South Korea, researchers demonstrated that their novel system achieves 63.9 kW of heat capacity—160% higher than high-density polyethylene (HDPE) exchangers—and peaks at 94 kW for heat gain, compared to just 21 kW for HDPE. The study tested performance by circulating water at varying temperatures through both systems under identical flow conditions (180 L/min). This innovation addresses regulatory limitations on traditional borehole heat exchangers in volcanic regions, offering a scalable solution for ground source heat pumps in such environments.
The Survey of Lava Tube Distribution in Jeju Island by Multi-Source Data Fusion
Researchers have identified potential lava tube networks on Jeju Island, Korea, using multi-source data fusion techniques, including Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) time series analysis and machine learning algorithms. The study detected deformations up to 10 mm/year over a three-year period, validating findings through geophysical and ground surveys. These discoveries highlight the risks of cave collapses in lava tubes, posing significant threats to planned infrastructure development on the island. The approach used in this study could also be applied to detect similar risks on planetary surfaces, offering insights for both terrestrial and extraterrestrial exploration.
Conceptualizing a multi‐layered shingle aquifer model based on volcanic stratigraphy and water inflow to lava caves in Jeju Island, Korea
A multi-layered shingle aquifer model, constrained by volcanic stratigraphy and palaeosol layers, has been conceptualized for Jeju Island's lava tube caves. This model reveals that water inflow to caves is primarily driven by storm-induced discharge from exposed palaeosol layers on cave walls, rather than ceiling drips. Monthly monitoring over a year confirmed the substantial contribution of wall inflow, with rapid drainage through cave floors observed at all sites. The study identified the lateral extent of palaeosol layers using drill core logs and coastal outcrops, suggesting that multiple perched aquifers form between lava flows during volcanic hiatuses, connected vertically by discontinuities in these low-permeability layers. This model improves understanding of groundwater recharge, flow, and contaminant transport in volcanic aquifers, offering a more accurate representation than previous models and aiding in better groundwater management.
Constantimarinum furrinae gen. nov., sp. nov., a marine bacterium isolated from saline volcanic rock aquifer (lava seawater) at Jeju Island, Republic of Korea
Researchers have identified Constantimarinum furrinae gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel marine bacterium isolated from the unique saline volcanic rock aquifer (lava seawater) of Jeju Island, Republic of Korea. This discovery was made through polyphasic taxonomic analysis, including 16S rRNA gene sequencing, phenotypic characterization, and genomic comparisons. The bacterium exhibits distinct features such as optimal growth at 30°C, pH 7.5, and 4% NaCl, along with unique fatty acid profiles and metabolic activities that differentiate it from related species like ‘Altibacter lentus’ and Marixanthomonas ophiurae. Phylogenomic analysis further supports its classification as a new genus within the Flavobacteriaceae family. This finding expands our understanding of microbial diversity in extreme marine environments, particularly in volcanic ecosystems.
Estimating submarine groundwater discharge in Jeju volcanic island (Korea) during a typhoon (Kong-rey) using humic-fluorescent dissolved organic matter-Si mass balance
Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) from Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea, significantly contributes to coastal nutrient budgets during extreme weather events. A study conducted after Typhoon Kong-rey revealed that SGD-driven fluxes of dissolved nutrients and organic matter accounted for over 90% of total inputs in Hwasun Bay. Using a humic-fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM H)-Si mass balance model, researchers estimated residence time at 1 day and seepage rate at 0.51 m/day, with peak fluxes including 1.7 × 10^6 mol/day for dissolved inorganic nitrogen and 38 × 10^6 g QS/day for FDOM H. This approach demonstrates potential for measuring SGD in volcanic islands under typhoon conditions, highlighting its critical role in oligotrophic coastal ecosystems.
Geochemical Characterization of Intraplate Magmatism from Quaternary Alkaline Volcanic Rocks on Jeju Island, South Korea
Research on Jeju Island's Quaternary alkaline volcanic rocks reveals two distinct magmatic events shaped the island's geology. Analysis of major and trace elements indicates that these rocks originated from a single parent magma, with minimal continental crustal contamination (0–0.3% by AFC modeling), rather than mixing different magma sources. The study suggests that the upper mantle beneath Jeju was influenced by arc magmatism due to the subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate, represented by mantle xenoliths. A second magmatic event occurred in a divergent setting, forming the host volcanic rocks. This dual process, combined with fractional crystallization and slight crustal assimilation, explains the geochemical diversity observed. The study also highlights that Jeju's xenoliths exhibit unique geochemical patterns, prompting further investigation.
Geologic characteristics of Jeju Samdasoo watershed in Jeju Island, Korea (I): Regional surface geology and volcanic activities
A comprehensive geological survey of the Jeju Samdasoo watershed, covering approximately 27 km², reveals that the region's volcanic activity spans from about 48.5 thousand to 17.3 thousand years ago. The study identifies 15 distinct lava flows, primarily composed of alkali basalt to trachyandesite, with a notable oldest flow dating back to 48.5±11.4 ka and the youngest, Noseorim lava flow, at 17.3±8.6 ka. The research also highlights the formation of alluvial-proluvial layers during quiescent periods between volcanic eruptions, significantly shaping the landscape. By integrating geological mapping with geochemical analysis and radiometric dating (Ar40/Ar39), the study reconstructs the temporal sequence of volcanic events, providing critical insights into the region's dynamic geological history.
Geologic characteristics of Jeju Samdasoo watershed in Jeju Island, Korea (II): Subsurface geology and volcanic activities
Research reveals that the subsurface geology of Jeju Island's Samdasoo watershed, Korea, spans approximately 500,000 years of volcanic activity, with lava flows and non-volcanic sediment layers forming its foundation. Analysis of eight drill cores identified 19 distinct geological units, including alkaline basalt to trachybasalt compositions, with the lowest layers showing more evolved tholeiitic basalt characteristics. Ar-Ar dating pinpointed three major volcanic phases: Phase I (466±9–444±8 ka), Phase II (367.5±7.9–212.8±4.0 ka), and Phase III (200±13–26.9±3.3 ka). The study integrated core analysis, petrography, geochemistry, and dating to reconstruct the region's volcanic history, providing critical insights for understanding Jeju Island's geological evolution.
Geology and Volcanic Activities of Wollabong-Gunsan, the Oldest Twin Volcanoes in Jeju Island
Researchers have identified Wollabong-Gunsan as the oldest exposed twin volcanoes on Jeju Island, providing new insights into the volcanic history of the region. The study, published in the Journal of the Geological Society of Korea, reveals that these volcanoes formed between 920,000 and 830,000 years ago through a series of magmatic eruptions, followed by a period of dormancy and renewed activity around 530,000 years ago. The study also challenges historical records linking the Gunsan volcano to an eruption in 1007 CE. To reconstruct the volcanic history, the team conducted field geological surveys, petrographic analysis of lava flows, rock chemistry analysis, Ar-Ar dating, and re-evaluated nearby drill core stratigraphy. Notably, they discovered a previously unknown basaltic lava flow (AB-I) with an age of 917.7±23.2 ka to 915.6±11.5 ka, which had only been documented in drill cores before.
Seismic crustal structure beneath Jeju Volcanic Island, South Korea from teleseismicP-receiver functions
Jeju Volcanic Island, South Korea, harbors a complex and extensive residual magma plumbing system beneath its crust, as revealed by seismic analysis. Researchers identified two major seismic discontinuities: one marking the upper boundary of a mid-to-lower crustal low-velocity zone (LVZ) and another defining the Moho transition zone. The LVZ, varying in depth from 8–30 km across the island, suggests magma batches stalled at different levels with diverse crystallization states, correlating with the chemical diversity of Jeju magmas. The Moho transition zone exhibits significant depth variations, shallowest (26–29 km) beneath central Jeju, hinting at possible mafic cumulates or partial melting. This study used teleseismic P-to-S converted phases (receiver functions) from 23 seismic stations to map these structures, providing critical insights into the island's volcanic evolution and crustal heterogeneity.
Statistical analysis relating variations in groundwater level to droughts on Jeju Island, Korea
Droughts on Jeju Island, Korea, significantly impact groundwater levels, primarily due to reduced precipitation and increased usage. A study using principal component analysis (PCA) and correlation analysis identified index wells most vulnerable to droughts by summarizing large datasets efficiently. This approach could reduce monitoring costs while improving drought preparedness. The research also revealed that temporal resolution—monthly versus daily or hourly data—affects the variables influencing groundwater levels, underscoring the need for tailored monitoring strategies in groundwater management plans.
Upper crustal shear wave velocity and radial anisotropy beneath Jeju Island volcanoes from ambient noise tomography
A study reveals the upper crustal structure beneath Jeju Island, uncovering distinct layers of magma plumbing systems that explain its volcanic evolution. Using ambient noise tomography and transdimensional hierarchical Bayesian inversions, researchers identified negative radial anisotropy (VSH < VSV) at shallow (<2 km) and deep (>5 km) depths, attributed to dyke swarms and vertical magma supply systems, respectively. A notable positive anisotropic layer (VSH > VSV, up to 5%) at mid-depths (2–5 km) suggests horizontally aligned sills, while beneath Mt Halla, the largest central crater, a locally high-temperature body underlies a cooled sill complex. This structure elucidates Jeju Island's volcanic activity, characterized by island-forming lava flows and central eruptions, both before and after cinder cone eruptions.
Volcanic Activity of the Volcanoes in the Hallasan Natural Reserve, Jeju Island, Korea
Volcanic activity within Jeju Island’s Hallasan Natural Reserve began approximately 192,000 years ago, according to Ar-Ar dating of basaltic trachyandesite and trachyte rocks. The study identifies two distinct phases: older volcanoes (over 100,000 years) include Y Valley in Eorimok, Dongsu-Ak, and Mansedongsan, while younger ones (<100,000 years) span multiple sites like Witbangae-Oreum and Baengnokdam. Eight volcanic events were recorded, four forming trachyte domes (e.g., Wanggwanneung, Samgakbong) and four linked to trachyte flows or dykes. Activity migrated from northwest to southern and eastern regions, culminating in the formation of Baengnokdam. This research provides a precise chronological framework for Jeju’s volcanic history, offering insights into its geological evolution.
A Borehole-Based Approach for Seawater Intrusion in Heterogeneous Coastal Aquifers, Eastern Part of Jeju Island, Korea
A novel borehole-based approach challenges the traditional Ghyben-Herzberg model by revealing that seawater intrusion in Jeju Island's coastal aquifers occurs through multilayered, lithologically distinct pathways rather than uniformly from the bottom depth. The study, conducted in the eastern part of Jeju Island, utilized electrical conductivity and temperature logs alongside thermal line sensor monitoring to demonstrate that freshwater and saltwater flow through independent channels with weak vertical connections. This finding highlights the heterogeneity of basaltic aquifer systems on volcanic islands, where lithological boundaries play a crucial role in groundwater dynamics. The research suggests refining conceptual models of coastal aquifers using advanced hydrodynamic measurements.
Application of the SCS–CN Method to the Hancheon Basin on the Volcanic Jeju Island, Korea
Research on Jeju Island's volcanic terrain reveals key insights into the Soil Conservation Service–Curve Number (SCS–CN) method, which models rainfall-runoff relationships. The study found that the Hancheon Basin's maximum potential retention is approximately 200 mm, with a corresponding Curve Number (CN) of around 65, and an initial abstraction ratio of about 0.3. Notably, antecedent moisture conditions (AMC) significantly influence CN values, showing a clear linear relationship, while maximum potential retention inversely correlates with AMC. The analysis also demonstrated that the SCS–CN model's structure holds for this volcanic basin, providing a framework to estimate runoff and water management in similar environments.
Growth and Mineral Content of Southern-type Garlic Grown in Volcanic and Non-volcanic Ash Soils on Jeju Island
Garlic grown in Jeju Island's volcanic and non-volcanic ash soils exhibits significant variations in growth and mineral content, with non-volcanic dark-brown soil (DBS) and very dark-brown volcanic soil (VDBS) yielding larger, higher-quality bulbs compared to black volcanic soil (BS). This study reveals that DBS and VDBS promote abnormal shoot growth and bulb development in BS, while enhancing bulb diameter, clove weight, and mineral richness—particularly potassium (K), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu)—in garlic. Soil physicochemical properties, such as organic matter and nitrogen content, were higher in volcanic ash soils but lacked available phosphorus and magnesium compared to non-volcanic soil, influencing crop productivity. These findings underscore the importance of soil type in optimizing garlic cultivation for both yield and nutritional quality.
Quaternary lava tubes distribution in Jeju Island and their potential deformation risks
Jeju Island, a volcanic wonder formed by Quaternary eruptions, harbors a complex network of 178 lava tubes, many still undiscovered. A study reveals that these underground cavities pose significant deformation risks, particularly during nearby construction, with ground surface deformations measured at up to 2 mm/year using InSAR techniques. The research found no correlation between lava tube distribution and specific geological units, but identified high collapse risks in areas with ongoing artificial developments. Machine learning applications further confirmed the instability of shallow lava cavities, underscoring the need for thorough physical exploration and risk assessment before intensive construction projects proceed.
Silicon Fractionation of Soluble Silicon in Volcanic Ash Soils That May Affect Groundwater Silicon Content on Jeju Island, Korea
Volcanic ash soils on Jeju Island, Korea, exhibit distinct silicon (Si) fractionation patterns that significantly influence groundwater Si content. Research reveals that while most Si is bound in unavailable forms such as primary and secondary silicates, Andisols—common in high-precipitation regions—show notably higher adsorbed Si concentrations (100–1400 mg kg−1), approximately five times greater than non-Andisols. This suggests enhanced Si solubility in Andisols, potentially impacting groundwater Si levels. The study quantified these fractions using a sequential extraction method, comparing Jeju's volcanic soils with mainland Korean forest soils. It found that amorphous Si was the second-largest fraction in non-Andisols, while pedogenic oxides and hydroxides dominated in Jeju's Andisols, often containing short-range-order minerals like allophane (4–40%). These findings highlight the unique soil formation processes on Jeju Island and their implications for groundwater chemistry.
Sorption and leaching characteristics of pesticides in volcanic ash soils of Jeju Island, Korea
Six pesticides, including alachlor and ethoprophos, were found to be highly mobile in volcanic ash soils of Jeju Island, posing a significant risk to groundwater contamination. This mobility was determined by their low distribution coefficients (Kd < 10 L kg−1) and high solubility (≥ 32 mg L−1), which distinguished them from other tested pesticides. The study used wick lysimeters to assess the leaching behavior of ten pesticides with varying physicochemical properties across three distinct soil types on Jeju Island, providing a predictive model for pesticide mobility in these unique volcanic soils. Strict control of pesticide use is recommended to mitigate environmental risks.
Geotourism in Jeju Island UNESCO Global Geopark, South Korea
Jeju Island, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2010 and revalidated in 2014, showcases diverse volcanic geosites that include cinder cones, tuff cones, lava domes, and lava tube caves. Additionally, it features a Pleistocene fossil site and a Holocene carbonate beach composed of algal nodules. The study highlights the conservation efforts, monitoring practices, and sustainable development programs implemented within the geopark to protect these unique geological formations while promoting education and geotourism. These initiatives aim to balance preservation with visitor engagement, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Jeju Island's natural heritage.
19th International Corrosion Congress
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, hosted the 19th International Corrosion Congress (ICC), highlighting its unique geological significance. The congress, organized by the Corrosion Science Society of Korea (CSSK) on behalf of the International Corrosion Council, brought together experts to discuss advancements in corrosion science and technology. Jeju's volcanic origins, scenic beauty, and diverse ecosystem make it a globally recognized destination for both tourism and scientific research. The event was supported by Korean companies and the government, underscoring its importance in the field. The ICC took place at the International Convention Centre, a striking glass-wall structure perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, which further emphasized Jeju's natural and architectural allure.
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