Publications
A Study on Travel Notes of Visits to Mount Kumgang in “Religions of Shrines and Temples 1911”
A rare glimpse into the arduous journey to Mount Kumgang during Japan's colonial rule of Korea reveals the mountain as a formidable and perilous destination before modern infrastructure. Analyzing the 1911 travel logs from the 'Religions of Shrines and Temples' collection, researchers reconstructed the itineraries of colonial officials dispatched to investigate illegal logging amid severe flooding. The study identifies key personnel, examines the social impacts of the 1911 flood, and assesses the primitive state of communication infrastructure at the time. These findings underscore the challenging conditions faced by travelers in early 20th-century Korea, providing valuable historical insights into the region's natural and administrative challenges.
Curated Viewsheds— Landscape Planning and Design of the Mount Kumgang International Tourist Zone on the Korean Peninsula
Mount Kumgang, a historically significant cultural symbol on the eastern coast of the Korean Peninsula, spans both the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK). This study introduces a landscape planning approach for the Mount Kumgang International Tourist Zone, focusing on enhancing sightseeing experiences through a visual network system. The design leverages traditional Korean artistic techniques, such as those found in Geumgang Jeondo and the 1939 'Panorama Map of Diamond Mountain,' combined with computer-generated graphics to address challenges like limited data and field survey difficulties. Two material models were developed to aid in understanding site design concepts. The proposed strategies aim to improve future development while preserving the region's rich natural and cultural heritage, offering a model for balanced regional growth.
Peace through Tourism
This edited volume investigates the dual relationship between peace and tourism, examining how tourism can both promote peace and be influenced by it. It presents case studies from diverse regions, including Mount Kumgang in South Korea, Palestine, Timor Leste, India, Japan, Australia, Kenya, and Jerusalem, to explore the potential of 'peace tourism' as a tool for ecological democracy, human rights advocacy, and social justice. The research employs qualitative methods, such as critical analysis and case study approaches, to assess both the benefits and drawbacks of peace tourism, including its potential for exploitation and the challenges it faces in conflict zones. A key finding is that while peace tourism can foster international citizenship and awareness-raising, its effectiveness depends on ethical frameworks and local community involvement.
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