UNESCO World Heritage sites in Korea number 11

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Korea number a total of 11; when combined with those in the North, they number 14. The World Heritage Sites cover a total of 981 sites in some 160 nations. Italy with 49 and China with 45 stake it out for the top two spots. Japan has 18 such sites.

More candidates for the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which Korea has submitted include Baekje Cultural and Historic Area and under review are Korean Confucian Schools, the Fortress Wall of Seoul, Gaya Tumuli of Gimhae and Haman, and Korean Buddhist temples hidden in mountains.

The most recently listed heritage site is the Namhansanseong Fortress decided on entry in June this year. In addition, the following round out the list: the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple; Jongmyo Shrine; the Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon; Changdeok Palace; Suwon Hwaseong Fortress; Gyeongju Historic Areas; the Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa Dolmen sites; the Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes; Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty; Andong`s Hahoe Village and Yangdong Folk Village.