Seoul sees surge in lovebug complaints

Seoul has seen a recent surge in complaints about lovebug appearances after the insect was first witnessed in swarms in the northwestern parts of the capital in 2022, a report showed Wednesday. According to the report from the city government released by city council member Yoon Young-hee, Seoul received 5,600 lovebug-related complaints last year, up 27 percent from 4,218 in 2022. Last year, complaints were received from all 25 districts of Seoul, while the overwhelming majority of the complaints in 2022 (98 percent) were limited to three northwestern districts, including Eunpyeong near Mount Bukhan. Last year, six districts, including Jongno, Jung, Seongbuk and Gangseo, saw lovebug complaints soar by more than 100 cases. Gangseo Ward reported 207 cases, marking a hundredfold increase from just two in 2022. Lovebugs, a species of march fly, are named for their habit of staying in pairs during and after mating, even while flying. The insect is categorized as non-harmful and beneficial, serving as fodder f or fish and birds. The council member, however, urged Seoul to develop detailed anti-insect plans to eradicate lovebugs, citing inconveniences to citizens. Source: Yonhap News Agency