Perceptions of cultural ecosystem services in urban green spaces: A case study in Gwacheon, Republic of Korea

Green spaces provide a variety of ecosystem services. Urban green spaces have particular value because they offer the benefits of cultural services to those living in urban areas. This study analyzed perceptions of cultural ecosystem services in the urban context of Gwacheon, Republic of Korea. We analyzed the cultural services provided by green space by surveying 240 residents of Gwacheon about which green spaces they frequently visit and what their major activities are in these green spaces, in order to find out how green spaces are utilized by urban residents. Since forests and large parks in Gwacheon are easily accessible from downtown areas because of the city structure, they play major roles in providing cultural ecosystem services. This study suggests that people find diverse cultural value in their everyday surroundings, not just in spaces with excellent ecosystems. This study has significant implications because of its quantification of current cultural services by a survey approach.