The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF, Minister Kang Do-hyung) announced on Tuesday, December 10 that it would expand the wetland protection zone (42 km2 → 113.34 km2) in the Muan Tidal Flats in Jeollanam-do, which boasts of rich biodiversity and serves as a habitat for marine protected species such as the Chinese Egret, Black-faced Spoonbill, and White-toothed Bristleworm. 

The Muan Tidal Flats were designated as the first coastal wetland protection zone in 2001 in recognition of their ecological excellence and geological conservation value. Muan-gun and local residents have been continuously working to expand the designation of wetland protection areas for UNESCO’s second-stage registration of Korean Tidal Flats.

MOF conducted a comprehensive national marine ecosystem survey (March - October 2021) and a detailed survey of biodiversity in the Muan Tidal Flats (August 2023 - February 2024) to confirm the habitats of endangered species such as the Chinese Egret and Black-faced Spoonbill and held a public hearing with local residents to collect opinions on designation (July 2024). As a result, the existing protection zone (42 km2) centered on the Hampyeong Bay Tidal Flats was expanded to include Tando Bay (71 km2), designating a wetland protection area spanning approximately 113 km2.

“This expanded designation will allow us to protect and manage the Muan Tidal Flats—the first coastal wetland protection area in Korea—by connecting them from Hampyeong Bay to Tando Bay. We will work with the National Heritage Administration and Muan County to ensure that the designation leads to the second stage of UNESCO World Heritage registration,” Minister Kang Do-hyung said.