The South Korean fauna
Korea's fauna, with its 100,000 species, belongs to the paleo-arctic kingdom. In the highlands, such as Taebaek, the fauna is similar to that of the boreal zones: deer, wolf, lynx, tiger, Amur goral (a type of small goat), weasel..
The lowlands have similarities with central China and Japan. They are home to black bears, roe deer and wild boar.
What unusual fauna can you come across in South Korea?
Located mainly in the Jeolla-do province, the musk deer is one of the deer you may come across. It bears the frightening nickname of vampire deer, as it has two very long canines protruding from its mouth. It's more impressive than it is dangerous.
Do you know the raccoon dog? Simply put, they're a cross between a dog and a raccoon. They can be found in densely wooded areas.
Although most have now almost entirely disappeared, felines still populate Korean territory. The Siberian tiger was reintroduced in 1986 and now lives in the wild. Even so, it remains very difficult to catch a glimpse of one. It's worth noting that the tiger is a totem animal for the country, as the legend of Dangun tells us. In the very north of the country, a few too few Bengal leopard cats still live. Unfortunately, industrialization has almost wiped them out. Seoul Zoo has made it its mission to reintegrate them into society.
Still on the subject of mammals, there are three breeds of dog that belong to the country: the Sapsal, the Pungsan and the Jindo. These three species have the title of "natural monument", as they are national treasures that the country is keen to protect. Nevertheless, Koreans don't often choose these medium-sized dogs as pets. They prefer very small dogs.
Birdwatchers will be delighted with their trip to South Korea. The country is a bird sanctuary, especially for migratory birds. There are no fewer than 266 species. A charming damselfly crane, a friendly white heron or a majestic Japanese crane can all be spotted near a waterhole. The latter, easily recognized by the red cap on its head, is a symbol of purity, peace and longevity. Currently on the brink of extinction, it can still be admired upstream on the Han River.
In 2019, the no less sumptuous Japanese ibis was reintroduced to the territory. It can be found 350 km southeast of the capital, in the wetlands of the Upo marshes. This is one of the best places for birdwatching for nature lovers. An equally rich birdlife can be found in the city of Suncheon, famous for its bay.
Another bird that is more common to us, but has always been of great importance in Korean folklore: the Korean magpie. Slightly smaller than the one we see in France, here it represents an important sign of good luck. All you have to do is keep your eyes peeled!
Korean marine animals are also worth mentioning. With three-quarters of the country surrounded by water, there are many aquatic specimens. There are many species of whale (Minke whale), dolphin, seal and porpoise. The town of Ulsan, which boasts a museum dedicated to whales, offers boat trips to meet them.
The South Korean flora
South Korea's varied climate is conducive to diverse vegetation. There are 3,500 types of plant, 900 of which are trees. Most of Korea's forests are covered with pine and Mongolian oak.
Overall, South Korea can be divided into three distinct zones. The first is the mountainous north. Here, the flora has to withstand the colder temperatures and is therefore more alpine (beech, birch, fir...). The second zone, in the west and center, has a much more temperate climate. The vegetation found here is largely composed of deciduous trees (wild walnut, ash, hornbeam, ginkgo...). This is also where the zelkova tree grows, a sacred tree for the Koreans. Trees of this value to the country are called " dangsanmok ". It was the focal point of family and religious ceremonies, and damage to it was punishable by law. In the southern part of the country and on the islands, the climate is naturally much warmer. The result is a more luxuriant flora (camellia, azalea, magnolia...) as well as citrus fruits. Jeju Island in particular is famous for its mandarins.
Hibiscus is South Korea's national flower. This flower, known as 무궁화 ("mugunghwa"), is not only very pretty, but also has a powerful meaning. It's a symbol of great resistance. It goes hand in hand with and evokes the pugnacity shown by the Korean people throughout their history. Between July and October, the country is decked out in a thousand and one of these flowers.
South Korea is also particularly renowned for its ginseng. This medicinal plant, and more specifically its root, is used in Korea and throughout Asia for its many beneficial effects (boosting the immune system, reducing stress and fatigue, promoting concentration...). This plant grows mainly in undergrowth.
