Seoul Takes Action as Cicada Poaching in Parks Sparks Concerns

Amid a series of complaints that Chinese nationals have been catching cicada larvae in bulk, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has launched preventive measures around the Yeouido Saetgang area.

The city recently posted banners along walking paths in the Saetgang Ecological Park prohibiting the unauthorized collection of insects.

This follows a series of reports last year that some Chinese nationals repeatedly gathered cicada larvae in large containers in groups at the location.

It is known that some regions in China and Southeast Asia have a culinary culture of using cicada larvae as a food ingredient.

Last year, controversy arose after it was reported that some Chinese nationals collected large quantities of cicada larvae at an ecological park in Busan as well.

While cicadas are not legally protected species, the Yeouido Saetgang area is subject to the Seoul Metropolitan Government Ordinance on the Preservation and Use of Hangang Parks.

Consequently, unauthorized collection of insects, including cicada larvae, or plants without permission can result in a fine of 100,000 won.

Experts point out that because Saetgang is a habitat for diverse flora and fauna and runs children's nature observation programs, indiscriminate trapping must be prevented.

Along with installing banners, the Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to step up on-site patrols and guidance activities, instructing violators to stop collecting and imposing fines if they refuse to comply.

Reported by Lee Hyeon-yeong | Video by Lee Eui-seon | Graphics by Lee Su-min | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.