What is an invasive species? An invasive species is a species that is foreign to the environment in which it is living. Due to many interactions between ecosystems and regions over the years, many invasive species have been introduced to new environments, often causing unexpected consequences. Invasive species are also an issue in South Korea, harming the populations of native species. 

A famous example of an invasive species is the giant ragweed, or Ambrosia trifida L. This plant is native to North America, but it was introduced to South Korea from the United States (among other North American countries) (KNA). It is officially designated as an invasive species by the South Korean government. These plants not only drive off the native species in wetland habitats but also accelerate sedimentation because its thick, large, and sharp seeds can spread quickly into different ecosystems via rivers. What’s more, the giant ragweed can cause allergies through its releases of pollen and limit the growth of other plants through allelochemicals and large leaves (ET OUT). Although it shows that Ambrosia trifida L. is a versatile plant, the giant ragweed is a major problem especially for the ecology of the Demilitarized Zone, which lines the border between the two Koreas. Rivers near the DMZ have experienced the sedimentation effects from invasive species like the giant ragweed.

There are multiple solutions to the issue of invasive species. For example, NGOs and the South Korean government have initiated projects to remove giant ragweed plants. However, studies have also been initiated regarding the health benefits of health and cosmetic products made of giant ragweed (Yoon). Policies that limit heedless introduction of new species into a region are also solutions. Therefore, a variety of solutions like these need to be considered for a more comprehensive approach towards invasive species — not just in South Korea, but also around the world.

“Ambrosia Trifida L.” Korea National Arboretum, Naver, terms.naver.com/entry.nhn?docId=3539429&cid=46694&categoryId=46694.

“Invasive Species - Giant Ragweed.” ET OUT, Naver, 7 Aug. 2011, blog.naver.com/etout5/134544462.

Yoon, Okyeo. “Rediscovery of the Giant Ragweed.” Gimpo News, Gimpo News, 29 July 2015, www.igimpo.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=39934.