Controversy Arises Over Installation of Bolts for Rock Climbing on Inwangsan Mountain
Inwangsan Mountain, nestled in the heart of Jongno-gu, Seoul, stands as a testament to the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty's Hanyang City while offering citizens a cherished recreational escape. However, recent developments have stirred debate and concern among climbers and conservationists alike.
Dozens of iron cores, along with numerous bolts for rock climbing, have been introduced into the mountain's landscape, igniting controversy over environmental preservation and historical integrity.
The installation of these bolts traces back to Mr. Kwak Mo, a seasoned climber boasting over five decades of experience. Despite objections from fellow climbers and directives from local authorities, Mr. Kwak persisted in embedding the bolts, citing a perceived right to open trails for all.
However, the presence of these man-made structures raises not only environmental but also legal considerations. Under current laws, installing such structures in forested areas without valid justification carries potential penalties of up to three years in prison and substantial fines. Despite the legal framework, enforcement has been notably lacking in cases of bolt installation.
Efforts to persuade Mr. Kwak to voluntarily remove the bolts have thus far yielded limited success, leaving authorities with the prospect of resorting to forced removal should dialogue fail.
The intricate balance between forest recreation and environmental stewardship underscores the complexities of managing beloved natural spaces like Inwangsan Mountain. As discussions continue, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative solutions that uphold both preservation and accessibility for generations to come.
- Inwangsan Mountain in Jongno-gu, Seoul, holds historical significance and is a popular recreational spot.
- Recent activities involving the driving of iron cores into the mountain, along with the installation of bolts for rock climbing, have sparked controversy.
- Mr. Kwak Mo, a climber with over 50 years of experience, installed bolts despite objections from climbers and local authorities.
- Despite orders to remove the bolts, many remain embedded in the rocks.
- Removing the bolts proves challenging due to their deep embedding and potential environmental damage.
- Mr. Kwak defends his actions, citing similar activities in other locations and asserting his right to open trails.
- Installing man-made structures in forests without valid reasons carries legal penalties, though enforcement has been lax.
- Authorities plan to continue efforts to persuade Mr. Kwak to voluntarily remove the bolts but will resort to forced removal if necessary.
