What are the goals and significance of Seonghwangrim, Hoanrim, Bangpungrim, Eoburim, Bohaerim, and Yeoksarim forests, which have been designated as natural monuments?

• Seonghwangrim, the religious forest where a Seonghwangdang (also known as Seonangdang or Dangjip), or the shrine to the village deity is located, has been believed to be able to protect the village. The Seonghwangrim Forest of Seongnamji, Wonju (Natural Monument No. 93), and the Evergreen Forest of Judo Island (Natural Monument No. 28) are among Seonghwangrim forests.
• A Hoanrim forest, which generally features a line of trees, prevents flooding and protects banks and villages. The Gwanbangjerim Forest of Damyang (Natural Monument No. 366) is one of Hoanrim forests.
• Bangpungrim, or a windbreak forest, is most often planted near the shore or a heavily winded area and serves to protect the village from strong winds. Similar to Hoanrim forests, many Bangpurim forests consist of a row of trees.

• Eoburim is the fish shelter forest planted on the seaside to head off strong coastal winds and attract fish to the area. In an Eoburim forest, village people conduct a shaman rite, during which they pray for a plentiful catch.
• Bohaerim forests have been planted to fill a village’s topographical gaps according to the principles of pungsu. They include the Line of Trees of Daedong-myeon, Hampyeong (Natural Monument No. 108). This wooded area is said to have been developed to contain the fiery energy of Mt. Subongsan. 
• Yeoksarim refers to a historical forest that has a special history or legend. The Sangrim Forest of Hamyang (Natural Monument No. 154) is said to have been planted by Choe Chi-won, a scholar from the Silla Kingdom (57 B.C. ~ A.D. 935).