Regular Cleanup Efforts Show Signs of Environmental Change in Busan’s Gadeokdo Area
The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Busan–Gyeongnam West Branch has begun a sustained environmental cleanup campaign at Cheonseong Port breakwater in Gadeokdo, Busan, where increasing tourism and insufficient waste management have led to sanitation concerns.
According to the branch, the area has recently shown early signs of improvement following regular volunteer-led cleanup efforts.
Growing Environmental Concerns at Cheonseong Port
Cheonseong Port, located in Gangseo District, Busan, is known as a popular destination for fishing, car camping, and outdoor recreation.
In recent months, however, reduced on-site management resulted in the accumulation of:
Local residents reported recurring complaints related to illegal parking and littering. Approximately 10 civil complaints per month were reportedly filed, with some residents noting that increased camping vehicles obstructed access for working fishing boats.
A Gangseo District Office official stated that although visitor numbers have increased, certain prohibited behaviors within harbor zones are not clearly defined under current regulations, limiting enforcement to guidance-based management.
Experts have described the situation as a structural issue involving multiple factors, including:
Weekly “Nature, Let’s Be Green” Campaign
In response, the Busan–Gyeongnam West Branch initiated regular environmental cleanup activities.
After conducting a site inspection in November of last year with a small team, the branch officially launched its weekly “Nature, Let’s Be Green” campaign on January 26. Cleanups are held every Monday.
As of February 23:
28 volunteers participated across four cleanup sessions
24 large 75-liter waste bags were collected
Approximately 1,800 liters of waste were removed
The campaign extends beyond waste collection. Volunteers also distributed hand warmers printed with the message:
“Let’s create a clean street together! Trash Zero.”
These outreach efforts aim to encourage behavioral change among visitors, particularly anglers and campers.
Early Signs of Community Awareness
Following the volunteer activities, some anglers were observed gathering their waste into organized piles rather than leaving it scattered.
The local district office has also reportedly deployed temporary sanitation workers and begun reviewing environmental management systems in the area.
Lee Young-no, head of the Busan–Gyeongnam West Branch, stated that Cheonseong Port is a meaningful place for both local residents and fishing enthusiasts. He emphasized that sustained attention and participation could lead to long-term improvement.
A Gangseo District official expressed appreciation for the civic initiative and noted that the district is reviewing additional support measures.
Structural Challenges and Long-Term Solutions
While the cleanup campaign has generated positive momentum, experts note that lasting solutions will require:
Securing adequate environmental management budgets
Expanding waste disposal facilities
Clarifying behavioral regulations within harbor zones
Strengthening administrative oversight
The Cheonseong Port case highlights how community-based volunteer initiatives can serve as catalysts for change while broader institutional measures are considered.
Community-Led Environmental Stewardship
The “Nature, Let’s Be Green” campaign reflects an approach that combines direct action with public awareness.
Rather than focusing solely on one-time cleanup events, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Busan–Gyeongnam West Branch has committed to regular engagement, aiming to transform environmental habits through consistency.
As public spaces face increasing pressure from tourism and recreation, local volunteer networks continue to play a visible role in supporting environmental stewardship at the community level.
Source:
- https://vo.la/UDQRM7k
- https://vo.la/DeIVEex
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