The Korea Forest Service, led by Minister PARK Eunsik, in collaboration with the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO), held a commemorative event marking the 2026 International Day of Forests on March 19 in the forest area of the DMZ* in Paju.
*DMZ: Demilitarized Zone on the Korean Peninsula; a place that symbolizes the division of the two Koreas and holds particular significance as the starting point of inter-Korean forest cooperation.

The United Nations designated March 21 as the International Day of Forests, which has been commemorated annually to raise global awareness of the importance of forests and trees outside forests. This year’s theme, “Forests and Economies,” highlights forests as a key asset in addressing the climate crisis and driving economic growth.

Approximately 100 participants attended the event, including the Minister of the Korea Forest Service, the Executive Director of AFoCO, Deputy Minister for Climate Change of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ambassadors from 13 countries?including Central Asia, Germany, and Mongolia?as well as young foresters and university students. Participants shared the importance of forest-based sustainable economies and international cooperation.

The program included a video highlighting the economic value of forests and examples of international cooperation, as well as presentations by young foresters on forest-based economic activities, including those related to the DMZ forest and youth woodworking workshops. Ambassadors also spoke about their countries’ forest resources and their value.

Participants also experienced the diverse values of forests, which extend to local economies, culture, and industry, through activities such as tasting gimbap made with forest products, exploring the DMZ forest, participating in woodworking activities, and learning about AFoCO’s activities.

PARK Eunsik, Minister of the Korea Forest Service, stated, “Forests play crucial roles in addressing the climate crisis and driving economic growth.” He added, "I hope the public will take this opportunity, on the International Day of Forests, to reflect once again on the value of forests and join nationwide tree-planting efforts ahead of Arbor Day."