Legal Framework for Hot Springs Management in South Korea and Thailand

Abstract

Hot spring is a valuable resource to the country’s tourism. The legal system then should set up a suitable and efficient framework for its administration. This article explores the legal frameworks for managing hot springs in South Korea and Thailand (using ones in Ranong Province as an example in this study), conducts a comparative analysis of the two legal frameworks, as well as makes some recommendations for the development of the laws in the Thai structure.

The study finds that the legal framework in South Korea contains all the details necessary for the entire administration of hot springs, including the source of the law, especially the Hot spring Act which comprehensively collects the rules for operating hot springs, the systematic terminologies of hot spring management’s components, the clear structure and relationship between organizations and government personnel responsible for managing hot springs, the various legal tools to permit and control hot spring uses, as well as the clear criteria for private participation. On the other hand, the legal framework in Thailand still lacks these essential elements. Recommendations for the development of the Thai legal system are therefore to formulate and improve all the necessary elements for the management of hot springs, and concern that public interest and freedom and participation of the private in using hot spring water are taken into account in a balanced way.