Wild Korea Season 1 Episode 2 Beyond Borders
- TVPG
- January 6, 2019
- 50 min
Wild Korea is a fascinating and thrilling exploration of the stunning flora and fauna spread across the Korean peninsula. Season 1 episode 2, titled Beyond Borders, takes us on an adventure beyond the border of South Korea, into North Korea.
The episode begins with a brief history of the Korean war, which left the peninsula divided into two separate countries. The border between the two nations is heavily guarded and crossing it is virtually impossible. However, the remote and rugged terrain has provided a sanctuary for wildlife that thrives in the no man’s land. The episode follows the camera crew as they travel deep into the demilitarized zone, which also serves as a unique haven for some of the rarest and most endangered species in Korea.
The first stop is an abandoned village that has been reclaimed by nature. The village is situated near a river that runs through the DMZ, and the surrounding forests and waterways are teeming with life. The crew sets up their cameras and prepares to capture rare glimpses of some of Korea’s most elusive animals, like the Korean Water Deer, Red-crowned Crane, and the exceptionally elusive Amur leopard. Despite the risks involved in venturing into this area, the camera crew remains determined and optimistic that they will be able to record some invaluable footage.
The episode moves on to explore the diverse coastal ecosystem of the Yellow Sea, which lies to the west of the Korean peninsula. Here, we get a closer look at the life and habits of the endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper, a bird that is facing global extinction. The camera follows the birds as they nest and breed on a small island off Korea’s western coast.
Next, we get a glimpse of South Korea’s own coast, where we get to witness a surreal ecosystem full of psychedelic, colorful soft corals along with iconic sea creatures like manta rays, goblin sharks, and the world’s largest stingray. The underwater visuals are truly mesmerizing as the camera crew captures stunning footage of the rich coral reefs and their inhabitants.
The episode then takes us into the Jirisan National Park located in South Korea’s southwest region. This is home to some of the most varied and spectacular landscapes in all of Korea. The camera crew follows the rare Asiatic black bear in their natural habitat and manages to capture some truly amazing footage of these magnificent creatures roaming free.
The final segment of the episode takes us far north to where the Tumen River forms the boundary between North Korea and China. This is the only area in Korea where the Siberian Tiger still survives. The camera crew is escorted by local guides who have intimate knowledge of this region. Here, we get to witness the amazing grace and power of the Siberian tiger, a true king of the plains.
Overall, Wild Korea season 1 episode 2, Beyond Borders, is a thrilling exploration of the Korean peninsula’s diverse and rich ecosystem. The camera crew manages to capture some truly amazing footage of some of the rarest and most elusive animals on the planet. The episode ultimately highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the need to preserve these habitats and their inhabitants for future generations to enjoy.