Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats

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Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats: A Unique Coastal Ecosystem of Global Significance

The Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats, comprise a unique and diverse coastal ecosystem along the southwestern and southern coast of the Republic of Korea. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, this expansive network of intertidal zones spans across four distinct regions: Seocheon Getbol, Gochang Getbol, Shinan Getbol, and Boseong-Suncheon Getbol. Each region represents a specific subtype of tidal flat, showcasing a remarkable variety of geological, oceanographic, and climatological conditions that contribute to the rich biodiversity found within these areas.

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UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site

Situated in the eastern Yellow Sea on the southwestern and southern coast of the Republic of Korea, the site comprises four component parts: Seocheon Getbol, Gochang Getbol, Shinan Getbol and Boseong-Suncheon Getbol. The site exhibits a complex combination of geological, oceanographic and climatologic conditions that have led to the development of coastal diverse sedimentary systems. Each component represents one of four tidal flat subtypes (estuarine type, open embayed type, archipelago type and semi-enclosed type). The site hosts high levels of biodiversity, with reports of 2,150 species of flora and fauna, including 22 globally threatened or near-threatened species. It is home to 47 endemic and five endangered marine invertebrate species besides a total of 118 migratory bird species for which the site provides critical habitats. Endemic fauna includes Mud Octopuses (Octopus minor), and deposit feeders like Japanese Mud Crabs (Macrophthalmus japonica), Fiddler Crabs (Uca lactea), and Polychaetes (bristle worms), Stimpson’s Ghost Crabs (Ocypode stimpsoni), Yellow Sea Sand Snails (Umbonium thomasi), , as well as various suspension feeders like clams. The site demonstrates the link between geodiversity and biodiversity, and demonstrates the dependence of cultural diversity and human activity on the natural environment.

Encyclopedia Record: Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats

Getbol (Korean: 갯벌) are mudflats, or tidal flats, coastal sedimentary systems. They are important habitats for different types of organisms, including migrating birds and marine fauna such as clams, crabs, octopuses, and snails. In 2021, four getbol sites in South Korea were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their outstanding natural properties. Each of these sites represent a different type of getbol.

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