Kim Seung-ho surveys golden paddy fields from a small mountain, gazing toward North Korea’s distant horizon.
He explains that artillery ceased decades ago, allowing nature to reclaim former military areas. The DMZ stretches 250 km across the Korean peninsula and remains 3.8 km wide. Despite its name, the zone remains heavily fortified, with landmines and military posts on both sides.
South Korea’s National Institute of Ecology has cataloged nearly 6,000 species, including over 100 endangered animals. Wetlands shelter migrating cranes, and eastern mountains host Siberian musk deer and Asiatic black bears.
Conservation Through Vigilance and Irony
Kim leads a team from Paju near the border, documenting the Civilian Control Zone every week. They map sightings, track movements, and monitor habitat changes, building a detailed wildlife database.
He reflects that landmines, intended for destruction, now act as the most effective protectors of life. His data often surpasses official government records in accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Researching the DMZ remains challenging. Civilians need military clearance, checkpoints, and sometimes armed escorts to access the buffer zones. Sudden military activity can revoke permits instantly.
Fragile Peace Threatens Biodiversity
North Korean soldiers sometimes plant explosives near the demarcation line, reminding researchers that hostilities continue.
Kim warns that any peace agreement could allow development, endangering the DMZ’s ecosystem. He insists that future generations valuing biodiversity should decide the area’s fate.
He emphasizes that balancing security, research, and conservation requires patience, resilience, and long-term commitment.
