"There's a Wild Boar on Campus": Repeated Reports at Ewha Womans University, But Still Unconfirmed After Five Days

Reports of sightings of wild animals, presumed to be wild boars, have continued for five consecutive days on the campus of Ewha Womans University in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. However, the animals have yet to be found, and concerns over safety are growing.

A notice posted by Ewha Womans University advising caution regarding wild boar appearances on campus. Screenshot from Ewha Womans University dormitory website

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According to Ewha Womans University and other sources on April 23, the first report stating, "A wild boar is roaming on campus," was received on the afternoon of April 19. The university conducted its own search but was unable to locate the animal. On April 22, both the Seodaemun District Office and the university responded by spraying repellents around the campus area. Nevertheless, around 9 p.m. that same day, another report was filed of a wild boar sighting. Subsequently, the fire authorities conducted further searches but were again unable to find the animal.

On April 20, the university posted a notice on its website titled "Safety Precautions Due to Wild Boars Appearing on Campus," urging everyone to be cautious. The announcement specifically advised, "Please refrain from walking alone on secluded trails at night, and avoid any provocative actions if you encounter a wild boar."

On April 21, a similar notice was posted on the dormitory website. The university stated, "We will conduct a thorough search of the forested areas on campus and strengthen night patrols," while emphasizing, "As the situation continues, all members are urged to pay close attention to their safety."

According to the district office, reports of wild boar appearances have recently been filed not only at Ewha Womans University, but also in various locations throughout Seodaemun-gu. So far, there have been no reports of injury or property damage. However, unlike the case of the wolfdog 'Neukgu' at Daejeon O-World or the escaped deer in Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi Province, no disaster text alerts have been issued by local governments.

Recently, sightings of wild boars in urban and residential areas have been occurring in succession. On April 15, two wild boars caused a commotion by breaking a shop window at an apartment complex in Boram-dong, Sejong City. The day before, on April 14, a wild boar that appeared near a university campus in Wonju, Gangwon Province, was shot by a hunter. That same day, at a rest area in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi Province, a wild boar was seen roaming and even charged at people, slamming into a restroom door and causing further disturbance.

Experts cite habitat loss and food shortages as reasons for the increasing frequency of wild animal appearances in urban areas. They note that during the spring season, feeding activity increases and wild boars expand their range, leading to a higher incidence of sightings.

Experts emphasize that the most important thing to do when encountering a wild boar is to remain calm. Actions such as shouting or turning your back and running away can provoke an attack and should be avoided; instead, you should take cover behind a nearby building or vehicle and immediately call 119 for assistance.

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