Various types of karst topographies are found worldwide. Owing to their global distribution, karst areas have been extensively studied by scientists who investigate new discoveries by linking the characteristics of karst topographies with their own research fields. However, there have been only a few studies on karsts in the Republic of Korea, and little research exists on their hydrogeology. Fragmentary studies have been conducted on the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater in limestone areas, the causes of high arsenic concentrations in groundwater, and the hydraulic conductivity of limestone areas. Research on hydrogeological characterization and flow mechanisms in these areas has only began recently. Identification and the proper management of available groundwater resources in karst (limestone) areas is essential as their unique geological characteristics render it difficult to construct reservoirs or dams at appropriate scales. We have reviewed prior work on karsts in the Republic of Korea to provide information that supports water resource security in the karst areas, to improve the understanding of the equitable use of water resources, and to identify the best management practices for groundwater resource resilience improvement.

Abstract
Introduction
Karst Research on Hydrogeology
Karst Research on Geographyand Geomorphology
Karst Research onGeo-engineering
Karst Research on Ecotourism
Conclusions
Acknowledgments
References

• Han-Sun Ryu(Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea)
• Sangwook Park(Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea)
• Jin-Yong Lee(Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea)
• Heejung Kim(Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea) Corresponding author