South Korea’s Summer Swarm: Lovebugs Take Over

South Korea is in the grip of an escalating summer infestation known as the “lovebug” invasion, with thick clouds of black insects swarming city walls, markets, and mountain trails. Though harmless to humans, the insects, known scientifically as Plecia nearctica, die quickly after mating mid-air, leaving behind sticky layers of rotting remains and an unbearable stench.

First identified in Incheon in 2015, these bugs are now spreading throughout Seoul and surrounding regions, their presence accelerating in recent years due to rising temperatures associated with climate change.

While some scientists label them “beneficial insects” for their role in breaking down plant material, the public perception is vastly different. Complaints to Seoul city authorities have surged. The infestation has gone viral online, with YouTubers frying the bugs into patties and BTS idols reacting to mid-show swarms. Public health officials and pest-control crews are scrambling to manage the cleanup.

Experts warn that the lovebug problem may be a preview of what’s to come, as warming trends enable other invasive or disruptive species to expand into new areas, turning what was once a seasonal nuisance into an environmental signal.