A Study on the Spatial Information Compilation of Inland Wetlands in South Korea

Wetlands offer numerous benefits, including improving water quality, providing habitats for wildlife, and storing water. They are areas where water either covers the soil or is just below the surface for extended periods. Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining environmental balance and ecological stability. In South Korea, the Wetlands Conservation Act was established in 1999 to protect these vital ecosystems and their biodiversity. The law defines inland wetlands as lakes, ponds, swamps, rivers, and estuaries. However, the boundaries of these areas are often unclear, creating challenges for conservation and research. This ambiguity complicates effective management and the implementation of necessary protective measures. This study utilized topographic and aerial images to gather spatial information about inland wetlands and assess their areas. It identified the boundaries of inland wetlands in South Korea, revealing a total area of 3,833.452 km<sup>2</sup>, which is 3.8% of the country’s total land area. The classified the spatial data, showing that vegetated areas cover 1,355.666 km<sup>2</sup>, or 35.4% of the total area, with woody plants covering 102.987 km<sup>2</sup> and herbaceous plants 1,252.679 km<sup>2</sup>. Non-vegetated areas account for 2,477.786 km<sup>2</sup>, or 64.6%, with open water 2,206.615 km<sup>2</sup>, natural land 160.995 km<sup>2</sup>, artificial land 72.343 km<sup>2</sup>, and Agricultural land 37.833 km<sup>2</sup>. Clearly defining wetland boundaries is essential for effective conservation and protection. Accurate boundary definitions facilitate legal protection and help prevent damage to wetlands. The results provide quantitative data that can inform future wetland conservation planning and management. And enhance our understanding of the size and changes in South Korea’s inland wetlands, supporting their preservation and protection.