Hallasan, an extinct volcano and the highest point in South Korea, is under threat of destruction due to something seemingly harmless - instant noodle broth, Mail.ru reports.
Located on Jeju Island, Hallasan has been a national park since 1966. However, the recent surge in popularity of instant noodles among tourists is threatening this natural gem.
The problem is that tourists pour unused broth on the ground or into rivers. The broth, containing a large amount of salt, poisons the soil and water sources, killing insects and disturbing the fragile balance of the ecosystem.
Concerned residents and activists are sounding the alarm, calling for action. Raids were carried out, fines were issued, and posters appeared on the slopes of the mountain with instructions on how to “save” Hallasan: use only half a packet of seasonings and take the rest with you.
UNESCO has recognized Mount Hallasan as a World Heritage Site. According to official data, 923 680 tourists visited this natural attraction over the past year.