
Taiwan and Korea launch rhino diplomacy initiative
Due to rampant poaching, the global rhino population has declined sharply. According to the latest statistics from the International Rhino Foundation, the number of rhinos worldwide decreased by 1,290 in 2024 compared to the previous year. Taiwan’s Leofoo Tourism Group and South Korea’s largest theme park, Everland, jointly launched an international rhino diplomacy initiative. FTV reporter Stephany Yang has the details!
Four years ago, Emma, a female white rhinos from Leofoo Village Theme Park, was relocated to Japan’s Tobu Zoo as part of a global conservation breeding initiative. Recent data from the International Rhino Foundation reveals that in 2024, the global rhino population declined by 1,290 compared to the previous year. The southern white rhino experienced the steepest drop among all subspecies, with an alarming 11.2% decrease. In response to these challenges, Taiwan and Korea have now joined forces to launch an international rhino diplomacy initiative aimed at strengthening conservation efforts.
Lai Chen-jung
Leofoo Tourism Group president
Rhinos are among the Earth’s most precious animals, but due to poaching and shrinking habitats, over 1,000 passed away in 2024 alone. The southern white rhino is especially on the brink of extinction.
This collaborative effort seeks to promote global rhino genetic diversity, foster international animal exchange, medical care, research, and professional breeding. International workshops will be held in the future to promote more cross-border collaboration.
Lai Chen-jung
Leofoo Tourism Group president
From genetic diversity and advancements in medical capabilities to the support of animals, all three fronts are being comprehensively addressed. Efforts will continue through international workshops to promote a greater cross-border collaboration.
Cheng Tun-hsi
Everland Theme Park
Previously, our zookeepers participated in a seminar hosted by Leofoo Zoo. Currently, there are six rhinos residing at Everland in South Korea. Since rhinos are known to be difficult to breed, we will leverage the advanced breeding expertise of Leofoo Zoo to support sustainable reproduction. Through exporting rhinos to Korea or animal exchanges, we aim to ensure the continued growth of the rhino population and safeguard their safety for the future.
By the end of next year, rhinos are expected to be sent to South Korea. This international conservation initiative aims to build a global rhino protection network.
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2025-10-09