Native Animals of South Korea You Should Know

Written by: Meghana Jayaraj, Kolkata, West Bengal

Edited by: Tahoora Charfare, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia

The Korean Peninsula is known for its diverse climate, which features a range of temperature zones and ample rainfall. This unique environment supports a rich biodiversity, with a total of 18,217 animal species recorded in South Korea. Among these, 246 species are considered endangered, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts. While the number of wild animals may be limited, the country is home to a variety of fascinating species that reflect its ecological diversity. Here is a list of some of these remarkable animals:

Siberian tiger

The Siberian Tiger (호랑이- horang-i) is South Korea’s national animal and a significant cultural icon. They are the largest cats in the world. The Siberian Tigers once roamed around the forests of South Korea unfortunately, they are now among the endangered species in Korea.

Lynx

The Lynx (스라소니- seurasoni) is another native cat of South Korea, like a tiger but in a smaller version. This cat has a coat covered with beautiful thick fur. The fur is a barrier against harsh temperatures and keeps them warm during extreme winters.

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Wild Boar

The Wild Boar (멧돼지- metdwaeji) is a dark coarse furred animal, a type of wild pig which is big and strong. It is fast and can also harm humans. They roam freely in the mountainsides and, sometimes invade into cities and run through the streets in search of food. Wild boars have been spotted in congested locations.

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Korean magpie

The Korean Magpie (까치- kkachi ) is South Korea’s national bird. The Korean magpie is like a tooth fairy, making sure that the kids grow new strong teeth. Though children don’t throw their teeth on the roof for magpies, it is still considered lucky if you spot one as they are considered a good omen.

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Red-crowned crane

The Red-crowned Crane (두루미– durumi) is a tall bird which has an outstanding appearance, having a red patch of feathers on top of its head. It is the rarest crane in the world and is a symbol of luck, peace and longevity. It is also carved on the South Korean 500-won coin.

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Amur leopard

The Amur Leopard (표범 – pyobeom) is one of the world’s rarest big cats, originally found across the Korean Peninsula. While it primarily inhabits the Russian Far East and northeastern China today, its conservation is important for South Korea. With fewer than 100 individuals left in the wild, efforts to protect this critically endangered species are essential for preserving biodiversity in the region.

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Asian Black Bear

The Asian black bear (반달가슴곰 ) is additionally referred to as a moon bear regionally, for the distinctive white crescent on its chest. The Asian Black Bear feeds on insects, along with fruits, nuts, and different grasses. Historically these bears were found throughout the mainland; mount Jirisan and Seoraksan in South Korea

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Siberian Musk Deer

Both males and females of the Siberian Musk Deer (사향노루) have long canines. It is a small deer that can walk through deep snow. They can also run extraordinarily fast to save themselves from predators. The South Korean Endangered Species List now includes the Siberian musk deer.

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Korean goral

This is the species of Wild Goat (산양- san-yang), residing in rocky areas or caves where other animals have difficulty finding. They can be found mainly in mountain regions. Historically the Gorals were found throughout the Taebaek Mountains. Gorals can eat a good range of grass, wild fruits, and leaves. Gorals have increased in number, around 700-800 now.

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In addition to the diverse wildlife of South Korea mentioned above, there are many more to discover like Korean hare, Korean water deer, White–Naped Cranes, etc. South Korea is devoid of huge carnivores but, there are still a few dangerous insects and snakes in the country. Governments and conservationists work together to ensure that the country is still home to a remarkably diverse range of wild animals.

You must have heard about the wild boars and the significance of tigers in K-Dramas! Do let us know in the comment section if you have heard about any of these animals mentioned above.