Korea Nature and Wildlife
Large mammals like bears, tigers and lynx were once abundant in South Korea, however, they have virtually all disappeared. This disappearance is down to human settlements, a loss of habitat as well as hunting. As a result of this diminishing wildlife, 20 National Parks and conservation areas have been established to attempt to preserve what remains of South Korea’s natural landscapes.
The largest mountain national park is Jirisan National Park in the southwest. This was the first park to be established in 1967 and its focus is on biodiversity conservation. Jirisan National Park is known for its Asiatic Black Bear conservation program. Dadohaehaesang National Park is the largest marine park with an area of more than 2,200 square kilometres (850 square miles), most of which is water. The park is home to 1,541 plant species, 11 mammals, 147 birds, 885 insects, 13 amphibians, 154 ocean fish and 11 freshwater fish.
There is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Korea - Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes. Listed in 2007, this World Heritage Site is home to Geomunoreum which is regarded by many as the finest lava tube system of caves anywhere in the world.
Perhaps the most interesting part of Korean wildlife exists in the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) which has remained virtually untouched since 1953. It has become a haven for migrating birds and is believed to be home to red-crowned cranes, black bears, musk deer, spotted seals and lynx as well as nearly 100 species of fish. Many successful conservation projects have begun in the DMZ including one that protects the winter habitat of more than 1000 white-napped cranes in the Han River estuary and in the Anbyon Plain. Another project also has a basis in the Anbyon Plain which strives to protect red-crowned cranes. Projects in the DMZ have not only helped the environment, but they have also encouraged communication and collaboration between both North and South Korea.
Korea Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Korea.
Learn about the history and culture of Korea, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Korea's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips and visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Korea for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Korea tours today!
Extend Your Trip
After your Korea tour, consider taking the time to visit other destinations. Goway offers exciting China vacation packages, India tours and Thailand vacation packages plus a comprehensive selection of vacation packages in many other Asian countries.
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ASIA by Goway is an exclusive division that specializes in planning and organizing Korea tours, vacations and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, an independent travel module, and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Korea.
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