No. Metal detecting in South Korea’s public parks is prohibited under the Cultural Heritage Administration’s 2021 enforcement decree, with penalties up to ₩5 million (≈$3,800) for violations. Local ordinances in Seoul, Busan, and Incheon further restrict such activities to protect archaeological integrity ahead of the 2026 UNESCO heritage site evaluations.
Key Regulations for Metal Detecting in Public Parks in South Korea
- Cultural Heritage Protection Act (CHPA) Article 72: Classifies metal detecting as “unauthorized excavation,” requiring permits for archaeological surveys. Public parks fall under this category unless explicitly excluded by municipal policy.
- Local Government Ordinances: Seoul’s Public Park Management Regulation (2023 revision) and Busan’s Cultural Heritage Preservation Ordinance explicitly ban metal detecting, citing risks to historical artifacts and ecosystem disruption.
- Penalties and Enforcement: Violations trigger fines under CHPA Article 110, with confiscation of equipment. Police and park rangers conduct routine patrols, particularly in Gyeongju (UNESCO candidate) and Jeonju Hanok Village.