![North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency reported that Mount Kumgang has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site on Wednesday. (Yonhap)]](https://contents-cdn.viewus.co.kr/image/2025/07/CP-2023-0309/30665121.jpg)
North Korea’s state media on Wednesday reported the addition of its scenic Mount Kumgang to the UNESCO World Heritage list, three days after the decision was announced.
This announcement followed the UNESCO World Heritage Committee’s final decision on Sunday to include the mountain in the World Heritage list, a move that came after North Korea’s application for the prestigious status.
According to the KCNA, the UNESCO committee recognized the mountain’s exceptional natural beauty, significant physiographical features, and rich cultural traditions in its decision to designate Mount Kumgang as a World Heritage site.
The state news agency described Mount Kumgang as one of the country’s most renowned natural landmarks. It highlighted the mountain’s unique scenic beauty, featuring 12,000 peaks, distinctive rock formations, impressive waterfalls, pristine pools, and crystal-clear waters that change color with the seasons.
The KCNA also emphasized the mountain’s biodiversity, historic temple sites, and cultural legends as significant intangible aspects of Mount Kumgang’s heritage.
This KCNA report was also published in the Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s most widely circulated newspaper.
North Korea initially submitted its application for Mount Kumgang’s inscription on the World Heritage list in 2021. However, the review process faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic before resuming this year.
With this latest addition, North Korea now boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites. (Yonhap)
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