Otters make comeback in Seoul's Han River after decades away

Genetic analysis has revealed that otters have successfully re-established themselves along Seoul's Han River, offering a rare conservation success story for the region. Researchers conducting the DNA survey identified at least 27 individuals, including five family groups, inhabiting the river system that flows through the South Korean capital.

The presence of otter families indicates that breeding populations are now sustainable along the waterway, suggesting conditions have improved sufficiently to support the animals' long-term survival. The species had largely disappeared from the Han River decades ago due to habitat degradation, pollution, and hunting.

The return of otters is considered an important indicator of ecological health, as they occupy a significant position in riverine food chains and require clean water and abundant fish stocks to thrive. The findings reflect improved water quality and conservation efforts undertaken along the Han River in recent years.

Otter populations across South Korea have been the subject of intensive conservation work, with the animals listed as endangered in the country. The successful recolonisation of Seoul's river system demonstrates that restoration efforts can yield tangible results in urban waterway management.