5 Amazing Animals of South Korea

With South Korea hosting the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games, it’s the perfect time to explore more about the country and its fascinating wildlife. Let’s take a closer look at some of the furry and feathered residents that make South Korea truly special!

Red-crowned Crane

This majestic bird commands attention with its dramatic appearance. With a white body and black neck and tail feathers, it is adorned with a beautiful red patch on top of its head. The red-crowned crane is a rare and protected species, with only two major populations left in the wild. One group resides in Japan year-round, while the other migrates from Siberia and northern China to South Korea for the winter. Interestingly, South Korea even has a traditional folk dance named after this magnificent creature, called the Crane Dance!

Korean Magpie

Considered one of the most popular birds in South Korea, the Korean magpie captivates with its black and white plumage and blue-toned wings. This bird holds a special place in Korean folklore, where it was once a tradition for children to throw their baby teeth on roofs for the magpies. It was believed that the magpies would ensure the children grew strong new teeth. While this tradition may not be as common today, spotting a magpie is still considered lucky.

Siberian Tiger

The Siberian tiger, also known as the Amur tiger, holds deep cultural significance in South Korea. It is the national animal and one of the official mascots of the Winter Olympics is a white tiger. Unfortunately, these majestic creatures no longer roam freely in South Korea’s wilderness. Once found in forests throughout Korea, northern China, and eastern Russia, they are now confined to a few remote areas. Siberian tigers are the largest cats in the world, equipped with striking orange and black stripes that provide camouflage during their nighttime hunts. While endangered, their population has gradually stabilized over the past few years, bringing hope for their conservation.

Water Deer

These adorable deer, often referred to as “vampire deer,” possess a unique feature – they grow two long tusks from their mouths instead of antlers. The male water deer use these tusks for display and occasionally for combat. The rest of the time, they rely on their regular teeth for munching on plants found near rivers and swamps. Their cuddly yet unusual appearance makes them a standout among South Korea’s wildlife.

Wild Boar

While many animals are beloved in South Korea, the wild boar is not as popular. These wild pigs have managed to adapt well to human presence, often raiding farms for food and even venturing into cities. In the past, boars served as prey for tigers and wolves in South Korea, but with the absence of their natural predators, they have become a bit too comfortable in their surroundings, going a bit hog wild!

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Conclusion

South Korea’s diverse wildlife offers a glimpse into the natural wonders of this captivating country. From the majestic Siberian tiger to the enchanting red-crowned crane and peculiar water deer, each animal contributes to the unique tapestry of South Korea’s ecosystem. As we celebrate the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games, let us also appreciate and protect these amazing creatures and the habitats they call home.

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