A rare 'dolgae hole' formation in the Gyeongbuk region of Cheongsong will be designated as a natural monument.
The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on September 11 that it plans to designate the 'Cheongsong Gohwari Baeksoktan Dolgae Hole' in Andeok-myeon, Cheongsong County, as a nationally designated natural heritage.
A dolgae hole is a circular or cylindrical feature formed by the erosion of bedrock at the bottom of a river due to flowing water.
What makes the dolgae hole in Cheongsong Gohwari special is the type of rock it is formed in. Typically, dolgae holes are found in igneous or metamorphic rocks that have cooled or undergone changes due to heat and pressure. In contrast, the dolgae hole in Gohwari has developed in sedimentary rock at the riverbed. This is a relatively rare occurrence in South Korea, and it is recognized for its geological uniqueness and conservation value.
In addition to the dolgae hole, traces of sediment accumulation over a long period can also be observed. Notable features include 'stratification,' where sediments are stacked parallel, and 'cross-bedding,' where sediments are inclined according to water flow. These features provide insights into the sedimentary environment and river development in the area.
The Cultural Heritage Administration plans to collect opinions from various sectors over the next 30 days before making a final decision on the designation of the natural monument after a review by the National Heritage Committee.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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