As a follow-up to the legislation of Wildlife Protection Act (2004.2.9), the Ministry of Environment announced the ANPRM (Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking) on the draft enforcement decrees and ordinances on 11 August 2004 to propose:

• Gradual expansion of the list of endangered species from 194 to 229, of which 48 species are newly included while 13 species are excluded from the list. The newly added species including Manchurian weasel and Siberian crane were selected for their high protection value and drastically decreasing trends in their habitat.
• A stronger control over those who consume endangered species by imposing up to 1-year imprisonment or USD 400 fine. The prohibited species from consuming will include 62 avian species, 21 mammal species, and other 12 species (a total of 95) that are in the greatest treats of poaching activities.
• Prohibition of capturing all amphibian and reptile species found in Korea (18 amphibian species and 25 reptile species) in order to prevent a reckless use of endangered species with medicinal purposes. Conditionally, capturing the species of active habitat may be allowed for the purpose of captive breeding, given that a mayor, governor, or a district leader issues an official permit.
• Addressing the damages inflicted by wildlife by facilitating the development of effective measures to prevent and compensate for the damages.

Upon the legislation of the Wildlife Protection Act, the Minister of Environment will establish a basic plan in a 5-year span, and the governors or mayors will develop and implement the detailed plans for wildlife protection accordingly.

The ANPRM in Korean language can be assessed through the Ministry’s homepage during 11-31 August 2004, and comments from relevant stakeholders and public will be widely accepted. The Wildlife Protection Act will enter into force on 10 February 2005.