North Korea’s picturesque Mount Kumgang, also known as Diamond Mountain, has been officially designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The announcement was made during the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Paris on Sunday.

The scenic site was inscribed under the name “Mt. Kumgang – Diamond Mountain from the Sea”, known for its breathtaking landscapes, seasonal beauty, and cultural significance. The mountain features dramatic peaks, striking rock formations, over 12,000 waterfalls and pools, and crystal-clear streams flowing through deep gorges.

UNESCO describes Mount Kumgang as a site “permeated with numerous legends and cultural relics handed down through generations,” highlighting both its natural grandeur and historical depth.

North Korea applied for Mount Kumgang’s inclusion in the World Heritage list in 2021, but the evaluation process was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It resumed this year after receiving a recommendation from the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which act as advisory bodies to the World Heritage Committee.

This marks North Korea’s third World Cultural Heritage site, joining the Complex of Koguryo Tombs (inscribed in 2004) and the Historic Monuments and Sites in Kaesong (2013). Additionally, in 2014, North Korea’s folk song “Arirang” was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Meanwhile, on the same day, UNESCO also added South Korea’s “Petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream” to the World Heritage list, recognizing their prehistoric cultural value.