Damyang County Mobilizes All Resources to Control American White Moth and Other Pests

Intensive Management of Major Tourist Sites and Street Trees

Due to the recent hot and humid weather, sudden pest outbreaks such as the American white moth have rapidly spread, prompting Damyang County to initiate control measures. Photo by Damyang County

Damyang County in South Jeolla Province (Governor Jeong Cheolwon) announced on August 20 that it is making every effort to control sudden pest outbreaks, such as the American white moth, which have been rapidly spreading due to the recent hot and humid weather.

The American white moth, an invasive pest native to North America, was first detected in Korea around 1958 and has since spread nationwide. A single larva can consume 100 to 150 square centimeters of leaves, with the second generation that emerges around August causing particularly severe damage. While the impact on forests is limited, the pest inflicts significant harm on street trees and garden trees in urban areas.

Exposure to the American white moth can cause skin diseases or keratitis in humans. The pest damages broad-leaved trees such as plane trees, zelkova, and cherry trees, leaving only bare branches, which not only spoils the streetscape but also weakens the trees due to reduced photosynthesis.

In response to the second generation outbreak in August, the county has been operating a Forest Pest Control Headquarters, deploying additional personnel and focusing intensive control efforts on major tourist sites, street trees, and parks to minimize tree damage.

A county official stated, "Due to the recent hot and humid weather, sudden pest outbreaks are increasing not only in forests but also among street trees. We will do our utmost to prevent the spread of damage through prompt and efficient control measures."