The Korea National Park Service (KNPS), under the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment (MCEE), has confirmed the presence of nine endangered wildlife species in nine wetlands located within national parks, including Mudeungsan National Park, following biodiversity surveys conducted at these sites.

The surveyed wetlands are newly identified areas where only their location and existence had previously been verified, with no biodiversity data collected. Since the first half of 2025, the KNPS has carried out surveys across eight study areas, including flora, vegetation, birds, and mammals, to document biodiversity in these wetlands.

The surveys identified nine endangered wildlife species, including the Lutra lutra, classified as Class I endangered wildlife, and eight Class II species: Prionailurus bengalensis, Martes flavigula, Elaphe schrenckii, Pteromys volans, Pelophylax chosenicus, Eremias argus, Accipiter gentilis, and Accipiter nisus.

In total, 660 species were recorded, including 444 plant species and 79 bird species. The findings indicate that these newly identified wetlands provide important habitats for a wide range of species, including endangered wildlife, underscoring their high conservation value.

Based on these results, the KNPS plans to prioritize conservation efforts across all 83 wetlands within national parks. Wetlands identified as having high conservation value will be subject to regular monitoring and protective measures, including the installation of water-control facilities. Sites of global significance may also be considered for designation as Ramsar Wetlands.

The surveys were supported by approximately KRW 200 million from Doosan's Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) fund.

KNPS Chairman said, "These surveys represent a meaningful example of how private-sector ESG initiatives and national conservation policies can work together to rediscover the value of previously overlooked wetlands. Building on the accumulated data, we will continue to strengthen wetland management to ensure biodiversity conservation."