Establishing an Ecological Network to Enhance Forest Connectivity in South Korea’s Demilitarized Zone

This investigation delineated an ecological network within South Korea’s Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to enhance ecosystem functionality, with a focus on forest landscape connectivity. The study employed spatial autocorrelation analysis and the minimum cumulative resistance model to identify key source patches. These patches are vital for maintaining connectivity across various topographies and land uses in the DMZ. Morphological spatial pattern analysis in the DMZ’s forest area showed a variation in forest patch types. The core class, less affected by external influences, was more prevalent in the eastern part. In contrast, the edge class, influenced by different environmental boundaries, was dominant in the western part. A 452.36 km long ecological network was constructed, serving as an essential corridor linking habitats of endangered species. This network covers a total forest area of 730.17 km2, which includes an existing forest protection area of 165.84 km2 (22.7%). The study also identified 564.33 km2 (77.3%) of previously non-designated forest regions as potential conservation areas. This aims to significantly increase forest connectivity within the DMZ. The research highlights the effectiveness of spatial planning tools in promoting ecosystem integrity in politically sensitive and restricted-access areas.