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UNESCO Adds 16 New Global Geoparks, North Korea and Saudi Arabia Included for the First Time.

International | Dated: 05 May 2025

In April 2025, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council (UGGP), under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), added 16 new sites across 11 countries to its Global Geoparks Network (GGN). The list was announced as part of the network’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - North Korea marked a historic first with the inclusion of Mt. Paektu, while Saudi Arabia debuted with North Riyadh and Salma. India does not have any site featured in the latest list.
  • - In April 2025, UNESCO added 16 new Global Geoparks to its Global Geoparks Network (GGN), spanning 11 countries. China received recognition for two new sites: Kanbula and Yunyang. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) joined the network for the first time with the inclusion of Mt Paektu. From Ecuador, two sites were added — Napo Sumaco and Tungurahua Volcano. Indonesia also saw the addition of two geoparks: Kebumen and Meratus.
  • - Italy's new entry is Mur Geopark, while Norway added The Fjord Coast. South Korea (Republic of Korea) contributed two sites — Danyang and Gyeongbuk Donghaean. Making its debut, Saudi Arabia had North Riyadh and Salma included in the list. Other additions include Costa Quebrada from Spain, Arran from the United Kingdom of England and Northern Ireland, and Lang Son from Vietnam.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) With these additions, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network now includes 229 sites across 50 countries, covering a total area of approximately 855,000 square kilometers.
  • (ii) UNESCO Global Geoparks serve as models for the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, support educational initiatives, and promote sustainable tourism.
  • (iii) To maintain standards, each Geopark undergoes a revalidation process every four years. A green card confirms the site's renewal for four years, while a yellow card grants renewal for two years. Among the 39 sites reviewed, 33 received green cards and 6 received yellow cards.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Recently, how many new sites were added to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network (GGN) in April 2025?

Correct Answer: 16

🚀 Quick Recap:

About UNESCO

  • Director-General : Audrey Azoulay
  • Headquarters : Paris, France