### Overview of the Most Visited Natural Parks in Different Countries

Natural parks serve as protected areas, dedicated to preserving natural environments and offering recreation opportunities for people around the world. The popularity of a natural park can vary widely based on geographic location, accessibility, unique features, and the type of ecosystem it protects. In this exploration, we focus on two different countries: the United States and South Korea. Both countries have their own most visited natural park – the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the United States and Bukhansan National Park in South Korea. 

### The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (United States)

#### Background and Location
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is one of the most iconic protected areas in the United States. Established in 1934, the park covers an expansive area of over 522,000 acres. Its name derives from the natural fog that frequently hangs over the range, appearing like large smoke plumes from a distance.

#### Biodiversity and Attractions
The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. It is home to over 1,500 species of flora and approximately 70 species of mammals, including the iconic American black bear. Moreover, it boasts more than 200 species of birds and a diverse range of fish and amphibians. This diverse biological spectrum attracts numerous researchers and nature lovers each year.

The Great Smoky Mountains offer a variety of attractions including panoramic views, towering waterfalls, and historic buildings that date back to the early European settlers and pre-European Native American inhabitants. With over 800 miles of trails, it is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

#### Visitor Statistics and Impact
As the most visited national park in the U.S., it attracts over 11 million visitors yearly. The high visitation is attributed to its close proximity to major urban centers, extensive network of trails, scenic auto touring routes, and its free entry, as one of the few major national parks without an entrance fee.

### Bukhansan National Park (South Korea)

#### Background and Location
Bukhansan National Park, located on the northern outskirts of South Korea’s bustling capital, Seoul, was established in 1983. Despite its relatively smaller size of about 31 square miles, the park is a celebrated escape from the city life, embodying tranquil scenery and challenging terrains.

#### Biodiversity and Attractions
The park features rugged mountains such as Baegundae, the highest peak at 836 meters, which provides panoramic vistas of Seoul and the surrounding areas. Bukhansan is famous for its granite peaks, deep valleys, and numerous gorges. It hosts about 1,300 species of flora and fauna and is especially popular among hikers and rock climbers.

Cultural sites are also part of the park's allure, including historic Buddhist temples and well-preserved fortresses that hark back to the Joseon Dynasty, providing a unique blend of natural and historical tourism.

#### Visitor Statistics and Impact
The compact and easily accessible Bukhansan National Park is deemed the most visited national park per unit area in the world, drawing in millions of visitors each year. This high visitation rate is driven by its location near a major metropolis, making it an easy getaway for urban dwellers looking for a quick return to nature. Over 5 million people visit annually, equating to an extremely high density of visitors compared to its area.

### Conclusion
While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Bukhansan National Park are continents apart and differ significantly in size, the reasons for their popularity converge on accessibility, natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and recreational opportunities. Both parks play a pivotal role in the conservation of their natural landscapes and cultural heritage, making them crucial for ecological sustainability and environmental education in their respective countries.