SEOUL, Dec. 27 (Korea Bizwire) — The South Korean government is set to intensify its efforts to reduce wildlife roadkill by designating and managing 100 high-risk road segments, up from the previous 50, according to a joint announcement by the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on December 26.
The new roadkill reduction plan will be distributed to road management authorities and other relevant agencies, building upon the success of earlier initiatives. The first reduction plan, implemented from 2020 to 2022, saw annual roadkill incidents decrease from 1,197 in 2019 to an average of 851 during the implementation period across the designated zones.
The new plan, based on data collected by the National Institute of Ecology in 2023, introduces several technological innovations and customized preventive measures. In three locations – Yangpyeong, Hoengseong, and Namwon – artificial intelligence systems will analyze wildlife movements and alert drivers through digital displays installed 200 meters ahead of animal crossings.
The comprehensive strategy includes installing guide fences along 59 road segments currently lacking barriers. In four areas where continuous fencing proves impractical, special ground installations will be placed to deter hoofed animals such as water deer. LED warning signs visible at night will be erected in 51 locations near villages, with speed enforcement cameras added along 13 stretches to encourage slower driving.
To enhance driver awareness, the government will provide high-risk zone information to navigation companies for voice alerts and publish detailed maps on the National Institute of Ecology’s Eco-Bank website (nie-ecobank.kr).
The initiative also expands its scope beyond mammals and birds to include amphibians and reptiles. Three areas with high toad mortality rates will receive dedicated crossing passages and protective barriers.
“We will pursue institutional improvements to enhance the effectiveness of wildlife corridors and strengthen systematic management,” said Kim Tae-o, director of the Nature Conservation Bureau at the Ministry of Environment. “We will also expand education and publicity efforts to improve driver safety.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)