South Korea's Ministry of Environment has unveiled the results of its most comprehensive national biodiversity survey to date, confirming a staggering 62,604 species thriving across the peninsula. The landmark count, finalized after five years of exhaustive fieldwork and DNA analysis, surpasses the previous 2018 tally by nearly 10,000 species, underscoring the nation's rich ecological tapestry from urban green spaces to remote mountain ecosystems.
The survey, led by the National Institute of Biological Resources in collaboration with over 1,000 scientists and citizen volunteers, employed cutting-edge techniques including environmental DNA sampling from soil, water, and air, alongside traditional netting, trapping, and camera surveys. Spanning all of Korea's diverse biomes—from the subtropical islands of Jeju to the alpine peaks of the Taebaek Mountains—researchers cataloged 12,345 vascular plants, 28,910 insects, 8,456 fungi, and 12,893 vertebrates and other animals. This meticulous effort identified 1,247 species previously unknown to science, including several endemic beetles and marine algae unique to Korean waters.
Compared to the 2010-2018 surveys, which recorded 53,162 species, the new figures reflect both intensified discovery efforts and the resilience of Korea's biodiversity amid rapid urbanization and industrialization. Experts attribute part of the increase to improved taxonomic tools and international databases, but warn that habitat loss from development poses ongoing threats. Notably, the count highlights 4,512 species classified as vulnerable or endangered, including the critically imperiled Korean crested ibis and Amur leopard populations clinging to existence in the Demilitarized Zone.
Environment Minister Han So-hee hailed the results as a "biodiversity blueprint for the 21st century," announcing a 30% boost in conservation funding over the next decade. Initiatives will prioritize restoring wetlands and forests, expanding protected areas to cover 20% of the land by 2030, and integrating AI-driven monitoring systems. International partners, including the Convention on Biological Diversity, praised Korea's model, positioning it as a leader in Asia-Pacific conservation amid global species decline.
Ecologists like Dr. Kim Ji-young of Seoul National University emphasize that while the numbers inspire optimism, they serve as a clarion call: "Korea's biodiversity is a national treasure under siege from climate change and invasive species. This survey arms us with data to fight back effectively." As the nation eyes carbon neutrality by 2050, the findings could reshape land-use policies, balancing economic growth with ecological stewardship.
