Sri Lankais donating 153 rare or endangered animals to Korea, including a pair of elephants, golden snub-nosed monkeys, jaguars and alligators, to thank a nongovernmental organization that helps Sri Lankan laborers.

According to Kim Hae-sung, founder of an NGO called the Global Love Sharing Center, Seoul Grand Parkhad asked Sri Lankato donate 14 species close to extinction and was surprised by the country’s reaction.

“Sri Lanka’s government said it was able to provide 40 species, including jaguars and alligators,” said Kim. “After mediation, a total of 153 animals were chosen to be given to Korea.”

These animals are literally priceless because trading in endangered species, especially elephants, is prohibited.

“For the last 20 years, the number of animals in national zoos declined from 4,000 to 3,000,” Kim said, “but it’s hard to purchase animals because of international law.” Therefore, Sri Lanka’s gift of so many animals is not only generous, but also a sign of good diplomatic ties.

According to Kim, an official from Seoul Grand Parksaid: “I was going to bring in those animals even if I had to go to jail. I’m so glad I don’t have to.” In fact, the gift wouldn’t have been possible without Kim and the work of his NGO.

^{joongangdaily}