The Korean red fox, once a common sight across the Korean Peninsula, has faced serious threats leading to its endangered status. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, including a captive breeding programme at Seoul Grand Park, this native species is showing encouraging signs of recovery. Recently, five new cubs were born at the park, marking a vital step forward in restoring the population of this elusive and endangered fox in South Korea.
Korean Red Fox Restoration
The Korean red fox (Vulpes vulpes peculiosa) naturally inhabits the hills, forests, and farmlands of South Korea, where it plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. By feeding on rodents, wild rabbits, insects, birds, reptiles, as well as fruits and carrion, the fox helps control pest populations and supports healthy ecosystems.
However, during the 20th century, habitat loss, war, industrialisation, and food scarcity led to a drastic decline in Korean red fox numbers. By the 1970s, the species had effectively vanished from much of its natural range.
In response, a restoration project was launched in 2011 within Sobaeksan National Park. Since 2012, 118 foxes have been reintroduced, allowing the project to reach its Minimum Viable Population (MVP) target of 50 foxes earlier than expected. Today, approximately 67 foxes live in the park—both reintroduced animals and their naturally born offspring.
This achievement is supported by a cooperative network involving local governments, road authorities, wildlife experts, and community groups. Together, they work to conserve habitats and foster peaceful coexistence between humans and foxes.
Conservation and Legal Status
The Korean red fox is classified as a first-grade endangered species under South Korea’s Wildlife Protection and Management Act.
Alongside iconic animals like tigers and otters, these foxes are legally protected from hunting and capture. Violations of this protection can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or hefty fines.
The urgent need for conservation led to the national restoration project spearheaded by the Environment Ministry and Korea National Park Service, highlighting the country’s commitment to saving this species.
Seoul Grand Park’s Role in Recovery
Since 2022, Seoul Grand Park has partnered with the National Park Service to bolster captive breeding efforts aimed at increasing the Korean red fox population. Last year, the park celebrated the birth of five cubs—an achievement it repeated this year—bringing the total number of captive foxes to 16.
These breeding successes form a vital foundation for the larger restoration initiative. The park collaborates closely with the National Institute for Wildlife Conservation to prepare captive foxes for life in the wild by training them to hunt and develop natural behaviours critical for survival.
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of September 2024, an estimated 120 Korean red foxes roam freely in the wild across South Korea—a hopeful sign that conservation efforts are bearing fruit. Nevertheless, the population remains vulnerable and requires continued support to ensure long-term survival.
Seoul Grand Park and its partners plan to gradually release captive-born foxes into the wild once they are adequately prepared. The ultimate goal is to restore a self-sustaining, genetically diverse population of Korean red foxes thriving in their native habitats for generations to come.
Summary
The recent birth of new Korean red fox cubs at Seoul Grand Park represents a beacon of hope in South Korea’s ongoing conservation journey. Through coordinated breeding programmes, strong legal protections, and carefully planned reintroductions, this endangered species is steadily reclaiming its place in the wild. Continued collaboration between government agencies, conservation organisations, and local communities will be essential to secure a future where the Korean red fox can flourish once again.
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