Battling Unlawful Tents: Cheongsan Mountain Struggles with Environmental and Fire Hazards
Illegal tents have become a persistent issue on one side of Cheongsan Mountain, causing both environmental damage and fire hazards. Despite efforts to remove them, these tents reappear, posing a significant challenge for the local government.
The Unfolding Challenge
Adjacent to the Cheongsan Mountain Entrance Area, off the trail, an area traditionally known for "tongseong prayer" has become a hotspot for visitors setting up tents. This has been a decades-long practice, drawing hundreds of people daily for prayer. However, the convenience of tents clashes with the fact that the area is designated as an "urban natural park area," making it illegal to install tents or awnings.
Tensions Over "Tongseong Prayer"
The tents, erected for the comfort of those engaged in "tongseong prayer" or loud prayer, have sparked conflicts with authorities. The church members argue that the tents are necessary to combat the cold, but the legal status of the area prohibits such installations.
Dual Risk: Fire Hazards and Environmental Concerns
Aside from the legal issues, there is a heightened risk of fire due to activities like cooking and using open flames for warmth. With hundreds of people gathering, the potential for uncontrolled fires poses a significant danger. Officials express concerns about the difficulty of managing fires once they start in such crowded conditions.
Government Crackdown and Ongoing Struggles
The district office has taken measures to address the problem, removing 5 tons of illegally installed tents in May. However, the lack of clarity about the tent owners hinders the imposition of fines, resulting in a recurring cycle of removal and reappearance.
The Cultural Context: "Tongseong Prayer"
"Tongseong prayer" is a vocal form of prayer prevalent in Christianity, especially in South Korea. It involves praying aloud and is commonly practiced in Protestant worship services. The clash arises as the tradition clashes with the legal restrictions on tent installations in the designated park area.
Escalating Concerns
As the number of unattended tents continues to rise, worries about both environmental damage and the risk of fires grow. The challenge now lies in finding a balance between cultural practices, environmental conservation, and the safety of the natural park area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is "tongseong prayer," and why is it practiced on Cheongsan Mountain? A1: "Tongseong prayer" is a form of vocal prayer prevalent in Christianity, especially in South Korea. Cheongsan Mountain has been a site for this practice for decades.
Q2: Why are tents being set up, and what challenges do they pose? A2: Tents are set up for the comfort of those engaging in "tongseong prayer," but they are causing environmental damage, and there is a high risk of fire hazards.
Q3: How is the government addressing the issue of illegal tents on Cheongsan Mountain? A3: The district office has initiated crackdowns and removed illegally installed tents, but challenges persist in imposing fines due to unclear ownership.
Q4: What concerns are associated with the risk of fire in the area? A4: The risk of fire is heightened due to cooking and the use of open flames for warmth in crowded conditions, posing a significant danger that is difficult to manage.
Q5: What is the cultural clash surrounding the installation of tents in the designated park area? A5: The clash arises as the cultural practice of "tongseong prayer" conflicts with legal restrictions on tent installations in the urban natural park area.
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