Just hearing the word cockroach is enough to make your skin crawl.

Have complaints regarding cockroach extermination seen a sharp increase in Seoul recently?

According to data from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, complaints related to cockroach control jumped significantly from 2,379 cases in 2021 to 11,789 cases last year.

In particular, 6,158 cases were filed in the first six months of this year alone, already surpassing half of last year's total complaints.

Recently, a video showing dozens of cockroaches swarming around Seoullo 7017 near Seoul Station spread across social media, sparking controversy.

Experts attribute the active growth and movement of cockroaches to hot, humid weather and the monsoon season.

Some analyze that cockroaches living around sewers and manholes during the rainy season move outside, making them more visible.

To prevent cockroaches, it is necessary to store food waste in airtight containers and meticulously manage food scraps and plumbing around the kitchen.

Experts pointed out that as pest complaints increase due to climate change and urban aging, proactive disinfection and urban environmental management are required.