Stromatolite and Bunbawi Rock on Socheongdo Island, Ongjin

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.508

Category

자연지형

Designated year

2009

Location

옹진군, 인천광역시— 인천광역시 옹진군 대청면 소청리 산 55-3 등

Coordinates

37.767457, 124.768670

Stromatolites are organo-sedimentary structures formed by the trapping and binding of cyanophyta and cyanobacteria living in the sea or lakes, having well-developed lamination. The occurrence of stromatolites, a type of limestone, has been observed throughout the entire geological era, from the beginning of life on earth. Stromatolites are particularly essential for unraveling the mystery of how life began within the paleo-environment during the Precambrian Eon. Their scientific and educational value is, therefore, immeasurable. The only stromatolites dating from the Precambrian Eon that were reported in South Korea are found inside limestone masses in Socheongdo Island. In North Korea, they are found in the environs of Pyeongyang. Inside the stromatolites of Socheongdo Island, the first bacteria fossil ever discovered in Korea, has been identified. This fossil is the oldest fossil in Korea, dated to the late Proterozoic Era (six hundred million to one billion years ago). Limestone in Socheongdo Island was quarried extensively since the colonial period, up until several decades ago, for use in construction. Only a small amount remains today. The designation of the stromatolites of Socheongdo as a Natural Monument is all the more meaningful due to the threat of indiscriminate quarrying faced by the limestone formation which also merits conservation attention for its beauty. Meanwhile, the white crystalline limestone (marble) outcrop located nearby, known as “Bunbawi Rock,” adds to the scenic beauty of this shoreline section.

Location