Possible Leopard Sighting Sparks Excitement in South Korea
Seoul, South Korea – A recent video released by Korean Wildlife TV has ignited debate over teh potential reappearance of leopards in South Korea, a species considered extinct in the wild for over six decades. the footage, captured during a nighttime wildlife survey, features an unidentified large cat that the videographer confidently identifies as a leopard.
The videographer noted a decline in the local rabbit population, attributing it to predation by larger animals. He then excitedly proclaimed the finding of the animal, emphasizing its size – larger than the elk previously observed – and notably its rounded tail as key indicators of a leopard.
Historically, Korean leopards were prevalent, with over 100 captured annually in the early 1900s. However, the last confirmed sighting occurred in 1962 in Odosan, Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do.
Recent years have seen unconfirmed evidence suggesting the possibility of their continued existence. In 2023, leopard-like footprints were discovered in Yeongju, Gyeongbuk, though these were ultimately attributed to a wild cat.
Since 2004, evidence of a large predator – including footprints and partially consumed carcasses of wild boars, elk, goats, and raccoons, along with food caches placed high in trees – has been documented in mountainous regions of Donghae-si at elevations between 600 and 1300 meters.
Further fueling speculation, in 2013, a 50cm long, 8cm wide footprint exhibiting characteristics typical of large cats (and lacking toenail imprints) was found near Hoje-myeon, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do. The National Biological Resources Centre estimated the animal responsible weighed approximately 50kg,consistent with a leopard’s weight. The current video is prompting renewed inquiry into whether the elusive leopard has returned to the Korean peninsula.