Everland Obtains 'World-Class' Zoo 'AZA Recertification'

[Financial News] Samsung C&T Resort Division, which operates Everland, announced on the 15th that it has obtained the international standard 'AZA Recertification' awarded to world-class zoos.
AZA certification is a globally prestigious zoo certification system organized by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. Among approximately 2,800 wildlife-related institutions in the United States, less than 10% have received AZA certification, indicating the rigorous certification process. Even after receiving AZA certification, the standards are strengthened every year, and a full review is conducted every five years to obtain recertification.
Everland, which first obtained AZA certification in 2019 along with Seoul Grand Park Zoo as the first in Asia, conducted a renewal review this year and successfully obtained recertification at the final hearing of the AZA annual meeting held in Tampa, Florida, USA, on the 14th, once again proving its international status.
AZA certification is only given to top-level zoos that faithfully fulfill their role in conserving endangered species based on animal welfare. To qualify, they must pass strict international standards in all areas, including operational systems, staff capabilities, education and research functions, and safety management. 
During the on-site inspection conducted from June 10 to 13 this year, inspectors dispatched from AZA evaluated that "Everland is actively communicating with all members prioritizing animal happiness and endangered species conservation, well practicing the zoo's vision of 'connecting nature and humans for the future'."
In particular, the inspection team highly praised facilities such as Panda World and Ppupatown, as well as the animal enrichment programs, and highlighted the successful breeding and wild release project of the whooper swan, which flew to the Primorsky Krai region of Russia, about 2,300 km away, as an excellent example of endangered species conservation.
Jeong Dong-hee, Everland Zoo Director, said, "Our efforts for animal happiness and endangered species conservation have been internationally recognized once again," and expressed his determination to "further develop into a zoo where both animals and visitors are happy." 

soup@fnnews.com Im Subin Reporter