Tribute to Jiyoung Jang

A wonderful person, a passionate conservationist and incredibly humble. Fond memories of working with Jiyoung in Korea and spending time at the London Wetland Centre. Jiyoung had this amazing ability to command and be respected in room full of people, when she spoke everyone listened not only because of her wisdom, but we knew she could bring focus, direction and meaning to a discussion. A true inspiration.

A special person whose super power was to bring people together for purpose. That purpose was about our world, our future and all species who call this place home.

With Deepest Gratitude – In Memory of Jang, Jiyoung Dear colleagues, friends, and seniors, On behalf of the ECO-Horizon Institute, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who accompanied our Co-Director, Jang, Jiyoung, on her final journey. Throughout her life, she always wished to serve a warm, comforting meal to activists working on the ground. Thank you for receiving her warm heart and kindness. Your presence and support undoubtedly made her final path lighter and more peaceful. A week has now passed since her departure. At the very hour she used to pray every day, we offer a cup of her favorite Pu-erh tea in her memory. She always sought to live a simple yet meaningful life, dedicating herself to good causes alongside wonderful people away from all worldliness. Even when facing the final moments of her life, she showed no fear, embracing them with remarkable courage and serenity. Together with her friends, we are planning to hold a small memorial gathering on August 1st to honor her profound dedication and footsteps in preserving the Korean tidal flats (Getbol). The footsteps she left behind now remain as a legacy for those of us who wish to carry on her spirit. We will never forget her precious vision and devoted heart, and we will faithfully continue the work she started. Once again, we bow our heads in deep gratitude to everyone who offered their warm condolences and comforted us during this difficult time. Sincerely,Myoung, - Myoung, Ho

It is sad to know that this world has lost another kind and passionate conservationist. My path with Jiyoung only crossed very briefly in April 2025 for the Spoon-billed Sandpiper Workshop and Gochang Bird Race, but she left a very strong impression in my memory. She was such a genuine person and very kind to everyone. I will remember the wetlands we visited together, and all the food and laughter.

Jiyoung was among the greatest of conservationists. Her loss is unbearable, in a world which desperately needs such vision, leadership, wisdom and dedication. She is a world class example of what can be achieved by persisting in fighting a cause for the long term, bouncing back from set backs with determined resilience, to champion the silver linings. Without her, I doubt there would be the Getbol Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage Site. Without her, I doubt that South Korea would be among the nations with the highest appreciation and awareness of tidal flats, that most precious of ecosystems, not least to migratory waterbirds. Without Jiyoung, the future of the migratory waterbirds of the East Asian Australasian Flyway would undoubtedly be less secure. Besides all this she was among the loveliest of people, warm, direct and true. I join the many others who deeply grieve this éminence grise of coastal wetland conservation.

I first met Jiyoung Jang in April 2025 during my first visit to South Korea. Despite being unwell at the time, she single-handedly organised a workshop on Spoon-billed Sandpiper conservation. I was deeply saddened to learn of her untimely passing. Jiyoung was a truly inspiring figure in nature conservation in Korea, and her passion, kindness and determination left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work with her. I hope her legacy will continue through the many people and conservation initiatives she inspired. As someone who was greatly moved by her enthusiasm and commitment, I am certain that she inspired countless others across the region to carry forward the important work she devoted decades of her life to developing. My thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues.