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Do You Know the Water Deer of Korea?

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AI-generated image depicting a Korean water deer, a wild animal native to Korea, in a natural Korean woodland setting. A Unique Mammal in the Deer Family Hello, dear readers! It has been a while since my last post. Today, I would like to introduce you to an animal that is very common in Korea but surprisingly rare from a global perspective: the Korean water deer. 1. What Kind of Animal Is the Water Deer? When talking about the mountains, fields, and natural landscapes of Korea, one wild animal that cannot be left out is the water deer. The water deer is a mammal belonging to the deer family, and its scientific name is Hydropotes inermis. It is commonly known in English as the Water Deer . The water deer is a very familiar animal in Korea. It is often found in agricultural fields, along streams, and in areas where mountains and open fields meet. Occasionally, it can even be seen in green spaces around cities. But there is an interesting fact about this animal. Although water deer are co...

Why the Tiger Remains Korea’s National Mascot: A Lost Predator and a Living Symbol

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A Siberian tiger with a 100% genetic match to the Korean tiger                                   Introduction: A Land Without Tigers, Yet Defined by Them Dear readers, greetings! Today, I’d like to share a story about the tiger — the animal that best represents Korea and its people South Korea no longer has wild tigers roaming its mountains. Yet, the tiger remains one of the country's most iconic national symbols. From Olympic mascots to folk tales, the tiger is deeply embedded in Korean identity. This enduring presence raises a compelling question: Why does a nation without tigers continue to revere them as a central cultural emblem? To understand this, we must delve into Korea's geography, ecology, history, and cultural consciousness. The Korean Peninsula: Once a Tiger’s Paradise Historically, the Korean Peninsula was a prime habitat for tigers. Its mountainous terrain, rich biodiversity, an...