Unwelcome Summer Guests: Jellyfish Appearances Lead to String of Stings at Busan Beaches

As jellyfish, the unwelcome guests of summer, begin to appear, a series of stinging incidents have occurred in Busan, requiring extra caution from beachgoers.

According to the Busan Metropolitan Fire and Disaster Headquarters on July 20, two 13-year-olds, identified as A and B, were stung by jellyfish at Songdo Beach in Seo-gu at 12:50 p.m. on July 18.

Five rescue workers were dispatched to the scene upon receiving the report and provided emergency treatment.

The victims, who showed symptoms of dizziness and chills, were transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance.

So far this summer, a total of 20 people in Busan have received emergency assistance from fire authorities due to jellyfish stings.

By beach, Songjeong Beach recorded the highest number with 10 cases, followed by 6 at Songdo Beach and 4 at Haeundae Beach.

Although jellyfish stings are occurring one after another, no crisis alert for a mass outbreak of jellyfish has been issued for the Busan coast at this time.

However, as Nomura's jellyfish have begun to flow in from the South Sea, relevant agencies are conducting on-site investigations, and it is expected that a related advisory will be issued within this week if the current trend continues.

Nomura's jellyfish, which can reach a maximum length of 2 meters, can cause symptoms such as swelling, fever, muscle paralysis, difficulty breathing, and shock if stung.

An official from the National Institute of Fisheries Science said, "The frequency of jellyfish appearances is higher than last year," adding, "As it is just the beginning stage, we expect to see an increasing trend for the time being."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.