Seoul City Proposes the "Water Spraying Method"
Insects That Should Be Allowed to Coexist with Humans
In early summer, so-called "lovebugs," which appear in swarms regardless of location, are drawing attention for their "eco-friendly pest control methods." Although lovebugs may look like pests, they are actually beneficial insects that contribute to the ecosystem.
On May 6, the Gwanak District Office in Seoul announced that it has been producing and distributing educational materials to help residents understand the ecological functions of insects and practice appropriate response methods. The educational materials include: ▲ the definition of insects ▲ how to distinguish between pests and beneficial insects ▲ types of insects that experience mass outbreaks ▲ types of damage caused ▲ eco-friendly pest control methods.
The red-backed lovebug, known as the "lovebug" because a male and female pair fly attached together, causes a surge in complaints in early summer. According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, complaints related to the red-backed lovebug increased from 4,418 cases in 2022 to 9,296 cases last year. Hundreds of these insects can stick to car windshields, obstructing visibility, or their carcasses can corrode car bodies, increasing the risk of accidents.
However, lovebugs are harmless beneficial insects that do not transmit pathogens or bite humans. They help fertilize the soil and contribute to maintaining ecological balance. Since the period during which these insects are prevalent lasts only about a week, some point out that investing manpower and resources in pest control is inefficient.
In response, Gwanak District in Seoul is advising residents to avoid using insecticides and instead utilize eco-friendly pest control methods, such as physical methods like "light traps" and "installing insect screens," as well as biological methods that make use of natural predators. This follows the Seoul Metropolitan Government's enactment this March of the nation's first "Mass Outbreak Insect Control Ordinance," which specifies the "principle of eco-friendly pest control," and now provides concrete methods for implementation.
The most effective eco-friendly pest control method is the "water spraying method." This method involves using a hose or bucket to wash insects off vehicles, building exteriors, window frames, and other surfaces with water. This allows for the safe removal of insects without chemicals and can be easily practiced by anyone. Additionally, since insects are attracted to bright colors, wearing dark-colored clothing when going outdoors can help prevent lovebugs from attaching to your body.
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