A sudden explosion in the population of so-called “lovebugs,” officially known as Plecia nearctica or red-shouldered march flies, is causing discomfort and frustration across South Korean cities. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 23 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea’s climate and environment authorities said Thursday they will begin formally managing insects that appear in large numbers in urban areas, responding to a rise in outbreaks linked to climate change.
The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced that so-called “urban mass-occurrence insects,” including the red-backed lovebug, will be designated as legally managed species under wildlife regulations. The move would allow the government to introduce systematic monitoring and control measures as repeated infestations disrupt daily life in major cities.
The policy was outlined in the ministry’s 2026 natural conservation plan, released amid growing public complaints over insects swarming residential neighborhoods, public transportation and commercial districts during warmer months.
Currently, the Wildlife Protection Act designates certain animals — such as wild boars, deer, magpies and feral pigeons — as harmful wildlife when their population density causes damage to agriculture, cultural heritage sites or urban infrastructure. The government plans to extend similar legal oversight to insects whose explosive growth affects urban living conditions.
The Black Stork is a member of the stork family distinguished by its black plumage and red bill and legs. In South Korea, it is designated as a Natural Monument. (Image source: Korea Heritage Portal)
The ministry also said it will expand restoration efforts for two endangered species — the black stork and the musk deer — both classified as top-tier endangered wildlife and designated natural monuments.
In addition, South Korea will publish its first National Ecosystem Report by June, offering a comprehensive assessment of how climate change is reshaping the country’s ecosystems.
Efforts to curb the spread of African swine fever will continue through vaccine development. The National Institute of Wildlife Disease Control is currently conducting large-scale clinical trials in Vietnam for a domestically developed vaccine, officials said.
As part of a shift in disease-control strategy, the government plans to dismantle wildlife fencing installed to block wild boar movement, citing limited effectiveness and concerns that the barriers have fragmented ecosystems.
Musk Deer (Yonhap)
The ministry also announced plans to introduce a new category of protected area known as “national recreation parks,” which would carry fewer restrictions than national parks while maintaining environmental safeguards.
To strengthen environmental oversight of major development projects, the government will pilot a deposit-based system under which a third-party institution selects ecological survey firms, rather than project developers. Authorities also plan to make the entire environmental impact assessment process publicly accessible.
An overhaul of the Environmental Impact Assessment Information System is scheduled, alongside a pilot program for online consultation panels aimed at improving transparency and public participation.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
