Jeju Gotjawal Native Forest Restoration
Reclaiming the UNESCO Biosphere Gotjawal volcanic forest canopy. Removing invasive species and planting native trees to secure Jeju's primary volcanic fresh water aquifer.
Our Core Mission
Ecological Restoration:
Healing Korea's Vital Ecosystems
We combine rigorous scientific research with deep community stewardship to restore degraded native forests, reconnect fractured wildlife corridors, and revitalize pristine wetlands across South Korea.
142K+
Native Trees
Planted across critical gotjawal woodlands
87+ Ha
Restored Area
Actively managed and monitored canopy cover
38+
Reintroduced Species
Native flora & endangered fauna brought back
41%
Nutrient Filtration
Average reduction in wetland phosphorus runoff
Ecological Vision
Science-Backed, Community-Centered Healing
At Dasom Saessak Initiative, we believe ecological restoration is not simply about planting trees; it is about rebuilding functional, self-sustaining biological systems. South Korea's rapid industrialization over the past half-century has left a highly fragmented landscape — isolating wildlife populations, polluting precious aquifers, and reducing resilience to severe climate events.
Our restoration approach bridges the gap between scientific expertise and local stewardship. By partnering with leading universities, national institutes, and traditional community groups like Jeju's haenyeo (diving women) cooperatives, we execute targeted interventions that deliver measurable gains in biodiversity and watershed health.
Rigorous Science & GIS Mapping
We establish comprehensive baseline parameters and track progress using GIS mapping, satellite telemetry, and real-time biological sensor networks.
Deep Community Integration
We consult and coordinate with local farmers, divers, and schools to integrate traditional ecological knowledge with active project guardianship.
Active Restoration Zone
High-resolution forestry mapping and baseline survey canopy progress across South Korea's ecosystems.
Our Methodology
The 3-Phase Restoration Framework
Our restoration protocols are developed in collaboration with the National Institute of Forest Science (NIFoS) and peer-reviewed by the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) Korea Chapter.
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Phase 1: Baseline Survey & Assessment
Before touching the soil, our teams conduct a intensive 6-month survey of target zones. We inventory soil chemistry, map hydrology, catalog existing flora, and set up sensor cameras to audit wildlife activity.
- GIS-mapped biological contours
- Soil nutrient and pH profiling
- Wildlife population camera audits
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Phase 2: Reforestation & Bio-Rehabilitation
Using locally sourced seeds from native species (like Camellia japonica and Quercus), we plant micro-forest nurseries. We physically remove aggressive invasive species and plant diverse native species to trigger natural succession.
- Local native seed bank cultivation
- Invasive species physical clearing
- Mixed-species structural planting
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Phase 3: Telemetry & Citizen Guardianship
We deploy real-time monitoring sensors (tracking soil moisture and water purity) and train local communities to serve as field rangers. This ensures long-term protection, preventing encroachments and enabling adaptive adjustments.
- Solar-powered real-time sensors
- Citizen scientist winter bird counts
- Community forest fire watch programs
Active Initiatives
Our Active Restoration Projects
Explore the real, science-driven, and community-guided initiatives currently being managed by our NGO across the Korean peninsula.
Jeju Gotjawal Forest
Forest Restoration
Han River Corridor
Riparian Eco-Corridor
Jirisan Alpine Slopes
Biodiversity
Suncheon Bay Wetlands
Avian Wetland
Urban Reforesting
Scientific Advisory
Our Scientific Advisory Council
We work in close cooperation with leading academic and governmental bodies to verify that our restoration methodologies meet elite global standards.
Dr. Kim Sung-gil
Forestry & Soil Ecologist
"Restoring Gotjawal's organic volcanic layers requires structural replanting. Re-establishing the primary *Camellia* canopy allows the unique forest microbiology to recover naturally."
Prof. Park Ji-hye
Wetland & Hydrology Adviser
"Living biological filters at the tributary margins can trap up to 41% of agricultural nitrogen. This constructed reed-meadow system is a highly scalable solution for Korea's watersheds."
Dr. Lee Min-woo
Large Carnivore Biologist
"Alpine wildlife populations in Korea suffer heavily from habitat isolation. By reconnecting high-altitude corridors, we ensure critical genetic health for native species."
Affiliated Organizations & Research Partners
Korea Forest Service
NIFoS (National Institute of Forest Science)
SNU Ecology Lab
SER (Society for Ecological Restoration)
Help us heal and protect Korea's ecosystems
Join our field volunteer restoration teams or sponsor a native planting initiative.