Spring offers great chances to spot thousands of shorebirds on the west coast of Saemankeum. The area becomes a gathering spot for up to 50,000 great knots, as well as other rare birds including world-endangered species like nordmann's greenshanks, spoonbilled sandpipers, Chinese egrets, and black-faced spoonbills. The latter are extremely rare with a global population of only about 850 birds.
Other species that are likely to be found around include asserines, warblers, various flycatchers, and buntings. The far southeast and southwest areas of Korea offer great chances to spot Japanese migrants, namely Japanese robins and brown thrush. Besides Saemankeum, fine birdwatching locations include Eocheong and the Gageo Islands. Besides, nice birdwatching may be experienced around Ganseo Wetlands near Seoul, and Suncheon Wetlands.
The best time to see birds in Korea is either spring or autumn when flocks congregate arriving or leaving these lands. The two most active birding months when migrations are in full swing are April and October.
Practical info
When is the best time to observe bird migration in South Korea?
Bird migration occurs in South Korea during spring and autumn. Tourists can witness flocks of birds congregating in these seasons as they arrive and leave the lands. The best time to visit for birdwatching is April and October, the busiest months when migrations are in full swing. Show more
What are some bird species that can only be found in South Korea during bird migration?
South Korea offers a natural habitat for a variety of bird species during migration, including some rare species hard to find elsewhere in the world. Endangered species like Chinese egrets, spoonbilled sandpipers, black-faced spoonbills, and nordmann's greenshanks are some of the famous species birds you can encounter. During migration, Japanese robins and brown thrushes are also found, among others. Show more
Where are the best birdwatching locations outside of Saemankeum?
Saemankeum is not the only great birdwatching location in South Korea. The country boasts of many beautiful birdwatching locations. Among the most popular, Eocheong, and Gageo Islands are worth the visit. Besides birdwatching, these areas offer other touristic activities. Ganseo Wetlands near Seoul and Suncheon Wetlands are other areas offering beautiful birdwatching sites where visitors can watch the rarest bird species in action. Show more
What bird species can you spot at Ganseo Wetlands?
Ganseo Wetlands is a beautiful location to spot different bird species, including shorebirds, great knots, and other migrants. Black-faced spoonbills are famous birds for sighting in this area. Visitors can also spot asserines, warblers, various flycatchers, and buntings, among many other species, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching tourists. Show more
Can you observe bird migration in South Korea during summer or winter?
Summer or winter is not the ideal season to watch bird migration in South Korea. The best time to visit South Korea for birdwatching is during spring or autumn, specifically in April or October. During these two seasons, tourists can witness flocks of birds congregating as they move to warmer regions or breeding grounds, and enjoy birdwatching to the fullest. Show more
