Inside Jirisan National Park: A Deep Dive into South Korea’s Richest Biodiversity Hotspot. Discover the rare species, conservation triumphs, and future challenges shaping this ecological treasure. (2025)

• Introduction: The Ecological Significance of Jirisan National Park
• Flora Diversity: Endemic and Rare Plant Species
• Fauna Highlights: Mammals, Birds, and Amphibians of Jirisan
• Conservation Success Stories and Endangered Species Recovery
• Ecosystem Services: Jirisan’s Role in Regional Climate and Water Cycles
• Human Impact: Tourism, Local Communities, and Biodiversity Management
• Technological Innovations in Biodiversity Monitoring
• Climate Change Effects and Adaptive Strategies
• Public Engagement, Education, and Citizen Science Initiatives
• Future Outlook: Biodiversity Trends and Projected Public Interest (Forecast: +15% over next 5 years, Source: knps.or.kr)
• Sources & References

Introduction: The Ecological Significance of Jirisan National Park

Jirisan National Park, established in 1967 as South Korea’s first national park, is a cornerstone of the nation’s biodiversity and ecological heritage. Spanning over 483 square kilometers across the provinces of Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do, and Gyeongsangnam-do, the park encompasses the Jirisan mountain range, which is renowned for its diverse habitats and rich biological communities. The park’s varied topography, ranging from lowland forests to alpine zones, supports a remarkable array of flora and fauna, making it one of the most significant biodiversity hotspots in the Korean Peninsula.

The ecological significance of Jirisan National Park is underscored by its role as a sanctuary for numerous rare and endangered species. The park is home to over 1,500 plant species, including ancient yew trees and the Korean fir, as well as more than 5,000 animal species. Notably, Jirisan serves as a critical habitat for the endangered Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), which has been the focus of extensive conservation and reintroduction efforts led by the Korea National Park Service (KNPS). The presence of such flagship species highlights the park’s importance for both national and global biodiversity conservation.

Jirisan’s ecological complexity is further enhanced by its role as a watershed for several major rivers, including the Seomjin and Namgang, which provide essential ecosystem services such as water purification and flood regulation. The park’s forests act as carbon sinks, contributing to climate regulation and supporting a wide range of ecosystem functions. These natural processes are vital not only for the park’s immediate environment but also for the well-being of surrounding human communities.

The park’s biodiversity is also culturally significant, as it supports traditional knowledge and practices related to medicinal plants, wild food resources, and spiritual sites. The integration of conservation with sustainable use and community engagement is a key aspect of the park’s management, reflecting the broader goals of the Korea National Park Service in promoting both ecological integrity and public appreciation of natural heritage.

In summary, Jirisan National Park stands as a vital reservoir of biodiversity in South Korea, offering invaluable ecological, cultural, and societal benefits. Its continued protection and scientific study are essential for safeguarding the region’s unique biological legacy for future generations.

Flora Diversity: Endemic and Rare Plant Species

Jirisan National Park, established in 1967 as South Korea’s first national park, is renowned for its exceptional flora diversity, particularly its wealth of endemic and rare plant species. The park’s vast altitudinal range, spanning from lowland valleys to the 1,915-meter Cheonwangbong Peak, creates a mosaic of habitats that support over 1,500 species of vascular plants. This remarkable botanical richness is attributed to the park’s unique climatic gradients, varied geology, and its role as a biogeographical crossroads between northern and southern floristic zones.

Among the most significant features of Jirisan’s flora is the presence of numerous endemic species—plants found nowhere else in the world. Notable examples include Hanabusaya asiatica (Jirisan bellflower), a rare perennial that is emblematic of the park, and Viola diamantica, a violet species restricted to the mountain’s high elevations. These endemics are often adapted to specific microhabitats, such as rocky outcrops or shaded forest understories, making them particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.

Jirisan also harbors a variety of rare and threatened plant species, many of which are listed on the Korean Red List or protected under national conservation laws. For instance, Abeliophyllum distichum (white forsythia), a monotypic genus endemic to Korea, is found in limited populations within the park. Other rare species include Megaleranthis saniculifolia, a spring ephemeral with delicate yellow flowers, and Taxus cuspidata (Japanese yew), valued for its ecological and medicinal importance. The park’s old-growth forests, dominated by Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) and Mongolian oak (Quercus mongolica), provide critical habitat for these and many other understory plants.

Conservation of Jirisan’s flora is a priority for the Korea National Park Service, the governmental body responsible for managing the park. The agency conducts regular botanical surveys, habitat restoration projects, and ex-situ conservation efforts such as seed banking and propagation of endangered species. These initiatives are vital for safeguarding the park’s unique plant diversity against threats like habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and climate change.

Jirisan National Park’s flora diversity not only underpins its ecological value but also supports traditional uses, scientific research, and ecotourism. The continued protection and study of its endemic and rare plant species are essential for maintaining the park’s status as a biodiversity hotspot in East Asia.

Fauna Highlights: Mammals, Birds, and Amphibians of Jirisan

Jirisan National Park, established in 1967 as South Korea’s first national park, is a critical stronghold for the country’s biodiversity, particularly for its diverse fauna. The park’s extensive altitudinal range and varied habitats—from dense forests to alpine meadows—support a remarkable array of mammals, birds, and amphibians, many of which are rare or endangered.

Among mammals, Jirisan is most renowned for its population of the endangered Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus). Once nearly extirpated from the Korean Peninsula, the species has been the focus of a long-term restoration project led by the Korea National Park Service (KNPS), which manages all national parks in South Korea. Since the early 2000s, reintroduction and intensive monitoring have resulted in a slowly increasing population, making Jirisan a symbol of successful wildlife recovery. Other notable mammals include the Korean goral (Naemorhedus caudatus), a goat-antelope adapted to rocky slopes, and the Siberian flying squirrel (Pteromys volans), both of which are indicators of healthy forest ecosystems.

Avian diversity in Jirisan is equally impressive, with over 200 bird species recorded. The park provides critical breeding and migratory stopover habitats for species such as the black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), the copper pheasant (Syrmaticus soemmerringii), and the globally vulnerable fairy pitta (Pitta nympha). The presence of raptors like the mountain hawk-eagle (Nisaetus nipalensis) further underscores the ecological richness of the area. The Korea National Park Service conducts regular bird surveys and habitat management to support these populations.

Amphibians in Jirisan benefit from the park’s clean streams and moist forest floors. Noteworthy species include the Korean salamander (Hynobius leechii) and the endangered Suweon tree frog (Dryophytes suweonensis), both of which are sensitive to environmental changes and serve as bioindicators of ecosystem health. The park’s amphibian diversity is a testament to its well-preserved aquatic and terrestrial habitats, which are protected under the stewardship of the Korea National Park Service.

Through ongoing conservation, research, and habitat restoration, Jirisan National Park remains a vital refuge for South Korea’s native mammals, birds, and amphibians, playing a central role in the nation’s biodiversity strategy.

Conservation Success Stories and Endangered Species Recovery

Jirisan National Park, established in 1967 as South Korea’s first national park, is a cornerstone of the nation’s biodiversity conservation efforts. The park’s diverse habitats—ranging from dense forests and alpine meadows to riverine systems—support a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including numerous rare and endangered species. Over the decades, targeted conservation initiatives have yielded notable success stories, particularly in the recovery of species once on the brink of local extinction.

One of the most celebrated achievements is the recovery of the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), a species classified as endangered in South Korea. By the late 20th century, the population of Asiatic black bears in Jirisan had dwindled to near extinction due to poaching and habitat loss. In response, the Korea National Park Service (KNPS)—the government agency responsible for managing national parks—launched the Asiatic Black Bear Restoration Project in 2004. This program involved the reintroduction of bears from Russia and North Korea, intensive monitoring, and habitat protection. As a result, the population has steadily increased, with over 70 individuals recorded in the wild by 2024, marking a significant milestone in large mammal conservation in the Korean Peninsula.

Jirisan is also home to other threatened species, such as the Korean goral (Naemorhedus caudatus), the long-tailed gorals, and the endangered otter (Lutra lutra). Conservation actions, including anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and public education campaigns, have contributed to the stabilization and gradual recovery of these populations. The park’s rich plant diversity, featuring over 1,500 species including rare orchids and endemic wildflowers, has benefited from strict protection measures and ongoing ecological research.

The success of these initiatives is underpinned by collaborative efforts between the Korea National Park Service, academic institutions, and local communities. The KNPS implements science-based management plans, conducts regular biodiversity monitoring, and engages in public outreach to foster stewardship. These efforts have not only enhanced the resilience of Jirisan’s ecosystems but have also served as a model for conservation in other protected areas across South Korea.

Jirisan National Park’s conservation success stories underscore the importance of sustained, science-driven management and community involvement in reversing the decline of endangered species. As of 2025, the park stands as a testament to the potential for biodiversity recovery when dedicated resources and expertise are applied to the stewardship of natural heritage.

Ecosystem Services: Jirisan’s Role in Regional Climate and Water Cycles

Jirisan National Park, the oldest and one of the largest national parks in South Korea, is a critical reservoir of biodiversity and a linchpin in the region’s ecosystem services. Its extensive forests, alpine meadows, and river systems support a wide array of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic or threatened. This biodiversity underpins the park’s essential role in regulating regional climate and water cycles, providing benefits that extend far beyond its boundaries.

The park’s diverse vegetation, ranging from temperate broadleaf forests to subalpine zones, acts as a significant carbon sink, absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide and mitigating the effects of climate change. The dense forest cover also influences local and regional climate by modulating temperature and humidity, contributing to the stabilization of microclimates within and around the park. These processes are vital for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting agricultural productivity in adjacent areas.

Jirisan’s intricate network of streams and rivers, including the headwaters of the Seomjin and Namgang Rivers, plays a pivotal role in the regional water cycle. The park’s forests enhance water infiltration and groundwater recharge, reducing surface runoff and the risk of floods during heavy rainfall events. This natural regulation ensures a steady supply of clean water to downstream communities and agricultural lands, supporting both human livelihoods and aquatic ecosystems. The park’s wetlands and riparian zones further filter pollutants, improving water quality and sustaining biodiversity.

The biodiversity of Jirisan National Park is closely linked to these ecosystem services. The presence of keystone species, such as the endangered Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), reflects the health of the ecosystem and its capacity to provide these services. Conservation efforts led by organizations like the Korea National Park Service (KNPS), which manages Jirisan and other national parks, focus on habitat restoration, species monitoring, and public education to maintain these ecological functions. The KNPS is a government agency responsible for the stewardship of South Korea’s protected areas, ensuring that biodiversity conservation aligns with the sustainable provision of ecosystem services.

In summary, Jirisan National Park’s rich biodiversity is fundamental to its role in regulating climate and water cycles in the region. The park’s ecosystems not only support a wide variety of species but also deliver critical services that benefit both nature and people, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation and sustainable management efforts.

Human Impact: Tourism, Local Communities, and Biodiversity Management

Jirisan National Park, established in 1967 as South Korea’s first national park, is a biodiversity hotspot, home to thousands of plant and animal species. However, the park’s rich ecological tapestry faces ongoing challenges from human activities, particularly tourism and the presence of local communities. The management of these impacts is a central concern for conservation authorities, notably the Korea National Park Service, which oversees the park’s protection and sustainable use.

Tourism is a major driver of both economic opportunity and environmental pressure in Jirisan. The park attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by its scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and cultural heritage sites. While tourism supports local economies and raises awareness of conservation, it also leads to habitat disturbance, trail erosion, waste generation, and the potential introduction of invasive species. Sensitive habitats, such as those supporting the endangered Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), are particularly vulnerable to increased human presence. The Korea National Park Service has responded by implementing visitor management strategies, including designated trails, visitor education programs, and seasonal access restrictions to minimize ecological disturbance.

Local communities, many of whom have lived in the Jirisan region for generations, rely on the park’s resources for livelihoods such as agriculture, forestry, and traditional medicine. Their activities can impact biodiversity through land conversion, resource extraction, and the use of agrochemicals. However, community involvement is also recognized as essential for effective conservation. Collaborative management initiatives, such as participatory monitoring and eco-friendly farming programs, have been promoted to align local interests with biodiversity goals. The Korea National Park Service works with residents to develop alternative income sources, such as ecotourism and the sale of local products, reducing pressure on natural resources.

Biodiversity management in Jirisan National Park is thus a dynamic process, balancing conservation priorities with the needs of people. Ongoing research, habitat restoration, and species reintroduction projects—such as the successful rewilding of the Asiatic black bear—demonstrate the park’s commitment to ecological integrity. The integration of scientific monitoring, adaptive management, and stakeholder engagement is central to sustaining Jirisan’s biodiversity for future generations, as emphasized by the Korea National Park Service.

Technological Innovations in Biodiversity Monitoring

Jirisan National Park, South Korea’s first and largest national park, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, encompassing over 4,900 species of plants and animals. In recent years, technological innovations have played a pivotal role in enhancing the monitoring and conservation of this biodiversity. The integration of advanced tools and digital platforms has enabled more precise, efficient, and non-invasive methods for tracking species and ecosystem health.

One of the most significant advancements is the deployment of automated camera traps and acoustic sensors throughout the park. These devices continuously record images and sounds, allowing researchers to monitor elusive and nocturnal species such as the endangered Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) without disturbing their natural behavior. The data collected is analyzed using artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, which can rapidly identify species and detect changes in population dynamics. This approach has greatly improved the accuracy and speed of wildlife surveys, supporting targeted conservation actions.

Remote sensing technologies, including satellite imagery and drone-based surveys, have also become integral to biodiversity monitoring in Jirisan. These tools provide high-resolution data on vegetation cover, habitat fragmentation, and land-use changes across the park’s vast and rugged terrain. By comparing temporal data sets, park managers can detect early signs of ecosystem stress, such as invasive species encroachment or the impacts of climate change, and implement timely interventions.

Additionally, the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling has revolutionized aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity assessments. By analyzing genetic material found in soil, water, or air samples, scientists can detect the presence of multiple species, including those that are rare or difficult to observe directly. This method is particularly valuable for monitoring amphibians, fish, and invertebrates in Jirisan’s streams and wetlands, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the park’s ecological networks.

These technological innovations are supported and coordinated by organizations such as the Korea National Park Service, which manages Jirisan and other protected areas. The Korea National Park Service is responsible for implementing conservation policies, conducting scientific research, and promoting public awareness of biodiversity. Collaborative efforts with academic institutions and international partners further enhance the effectiveness of these monitoring programs, ensuring that Jirisan National Park remains a model for biodiversity conservation in East Asia.

Climate Change Effects and Adaptive Strategies

Jirisan National Park, South Korea’s first and largest national park, is a critical reservoir of biodiversity, hosting over 5,000 species of plants and animals. However, the park’s unique ecosystems are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events are already affecting the distribution and survival of many native species. For example, temperature-sensitive flora such as the Korean fir (Abies koreana)—an endemic and endangered species—are experiencing habitat contraction as suitable cool, high-altitude zones shrink. Similarly, fauna like the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), which has been the focus of a major restoration project, face challenges as food sources and hibernation patterns are disrupted by shifting seasonal cues.

The Korea National Park Service (Korea National Park Service), the governmental body responsible for managing Jirisan and other national parks, has recognized these threats and is implementing adaptive strategies to mitigate biodiversity loss. One key approach is the establishment of ecological corridors and buffer zones to facilitate species migration and genetic exchange as habitats shift. The park also engages in active monitoring of indicator species and habitats, using long-term ecological research plots to track changes in population dynamics and ecosystem health.

Restoration and assisted migration efforts are being piloted for particularly vulnerable species. For instance, the reintroduction and ongoing management of the Asiatic black bear population involve not only habitat protection but also supplemental feeding and health monitoring to buffer the effects of climate variability. In addition, the park is enhancing its fire management protocols and invasive species control, as warmer conditions have increased the risk of wildfires and the spread of non-native organisms.

Community engagement and education are integral to Jirisan’s adaptive strategies. The park collaborates with local residents, researchers, and conservation organizations to promote sustainable tourism, reduce human-wildlife conflict, and foster stewardship of natural resources. These efforts are aligned with national and international conservation frameworks, including the Convention on Biological Diversity, to which South Korea is a party (Convention on Biological Diversity).

In summary, while climate change poses significant challenges to the biodiversity of Jirisan National Park, a combination of science-based management, habitat connectivity, species-specific interventions, and community participation is helping to build resilience in this vital protected area.

Public Engagement, Education, and Citizen Science Initiatives

Jirisan National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity, has become a focal point for public engagement, education, and citizen science initiatives in South Korea. These efforts are crucial for fostering a deeper understanding of the park’s ecological value and for promoting conservation among diverse audiences. The park’s management, under the stewardship of the Korea National Park Service (KNPS), actively collaborates with local communities, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations to enhance public participation in biodiversity monitoring and protection.

Educational programs are a cornerstone of Jirisan’s outreach strategy. The KNPS operates visitor centers and field schools within the park, offering guided nature walks, biodiversity workshops, and interactive exhibits tailored to students, families, and tourists. These programs emphasize the unique flora and fauna of Jirisan, such as the endangered Asiatic black bear and rare plant species, highlighting their ecological roles and the importance of habitat preservation. The park’s educational materials are regularly updated to reflect current scientific knowledge and conservation priorities, ensuring that visitors receive accurate and relevant information.

Citizen science initiatives have gained momentum in recent years, empowering the public to contribute directly to biodiversity research. The KNPS has launched several participatory monitoring projects, inviting volunteers to assist in wildlife surveys, plant inventories, and phenological observations. These initiatives not only generate valuable data for park management but also cultivate a sense of stewardship among participants. For example, the “Bear Watch” program enlists local residents and visitors to report sightings and signs of the Asiatic black bear, aiding in the species’ ongoing recovery efforts.

In addition to on-site activities, digital platforms play an increasingly important role in public engagement. The KNPS provides online resources, including virtual tours, species databases, and educational videos, making Jirisan’s biodiversity accessible to a broader audience. Social media campaigns and mobile applications further encourage citizen involvement by facilitating the sharing of wildlife observations and conservation stories.

These multifaceted initiatives reflect a broader commitment by the Korea National Park Service to integrate public participation into the stewardship of Jirisan National Park. By combining education, hands-on involvement, and digital outreach, the park not only enhances biodiversity conservation but also inspires a new generation of environmental advocates.

Future Outlook: Biodiversity Trends and Projected Public Interest (Forecast: +15% over next 5 years, Source: knps.or.kr)

Jirisan National Park, South Korea’s first and largest national park, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, encompassing a wide range of flora and fauna across diverse ecosystems. As of 2025, the park is home to over 4,900 species, including several endangered and endemic species, such as the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), which has been the focus of successful reintroduction and conservation programs. The park’s varied altitudes and microclimates support temperate forests, alpine meadows, and riparian habitats, making it a critical refuge for both plant and animal life.

Looking ahead, the future outlook for Jirisan National Park’s biodiversity is cautiously optimistic. According to projections by the Korea National Park Service (KNPS), public interest in biodiversity and conservation activities within the park is expected to increase by approximately 15% over the next five years. This forecast is based on recent trends in ecotourism, citizen science participation, and educational outreach, all of which have contributed to greater awareness and engagement with the park’s natural resources.

The KNPS, a government-affiliated body responsible for the management and protection of South Korea’s national parks, has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at preserving Jirisan’s ecological integrity. These include habitat restoration projects, invasive species control, and the expansion of ecological monitoring networks. The park’s ongoing Asiatic black bear restoration program is a flagship example, demonstrating the potential for science-based management to reverse declines in threatened species populations.

Climate change and human pressures remain significant challenges, with shifting temperature and precipitation patterns potentially altering species distributions and ecosystem dynamics. However, adaptive management strategies and increased public involvement are expected to bolster the park’s resilience. The anticipated rise in public interest is likely to translate into greater support for conservation funding, volunteerism, and policy advocacy, further strengthening the park’s capacity to safeguard its biodiversity.

In summary, Jirisan National Park’s biodiversity is projected to remain robust through 2030, supported by proactive stewardship from the Korea National Park Service and a growing base of public support. Continued investment in research, education, and community engagement will be essential to navigating emerging threats and ensuring the long-term preservation of this vital ecological treasure.

Sources & References

• Korea National Park Service