South Korea has initiated a four-week campaign against bedbugs following multiple reports of infestations that have triggered widespread public anxiety. In an effort to tackle the issue, the central and regional governments will conduct inspections at high-risk facilities such as public bathhouses, dormitories, and public transportation from November 13 to December 8, as announced by the Office for Government Policy Coordination. Any facilities found to be infested will be immediately disinfected, and the government is seeking emergency approval to import stronger pesticides in the coming week.
So far, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety has confirmed 13 cases of bedbugs, with an additional 32 suspected cases reported across the country. Although the number of cases remains relatively low, the occurrence has caused panic among the public, particularly as South Korea had successfully eradicated bedbugs decades ago. Unverified rumors circulating on social media about bedbugs being found in subway seats and a distribution center have left people anxious about using public transportation and receiving deliveries. Government officials have refuted these rumors.
The news of bedbug infestations has not gone unnoticed by companies involved in pest control. Manufacturers of pesticides, such as Enbio Co. and Kyung Nong Corp., have witnessed their stocks climb more than 30% this week, while insect repellent maker Kyung Nam Pharm Co. has seen a rise of 40%. Additionally, sales of bedbug insecticides on an online shopping platform have surged by a staggering 813% between October 31 and November 6 compared to the same period last year. Sales of bedding cleaning products have also increased by 610%, and waterproof covers for beds and mattresses have risen by 111%.
Despite experts suggesting that the situation in South Korea is not yet severe and bedbug infestations are not rapidly spreading, the government has decided to intervene in order to address public concerns promptly. Minister of the Interior and Safety, Lee Sang-min, informed lawmakers that the cause of the recent bedbug occurrences is still being investigated. The insects could have been brought into the country by travelers returning from Europe or may have been preexisting in South Korea, he noted.
The fear of bedbug outbreaks spreading across borders has also prompted Hong Kong authorities to increase public awareness campaigns and engage in discussions with airlines and hotels regarding preventative measures against bedbugs. By taking comprehensive actions and launching public initiatives, South Korea and other affected regions aim to mitigate the anxiety caused by bedbug infestations and prevent their further spread.