Seoul, South Korea, is experiencing a resurgence of lovebug infestations, scientifically known as Plecia nearctica, prompting environmental concerns among residents. Videos circulating on social media depict dense swarms of these insects, particularly on Gyeyang Mountain in Incheon, west of Seoul, where hiking trails and scenic viewpoints are blanketed by the bugs.
Lovebugs, known for their mating behavior where they fly in pairs, with males dying shortly after and females living for about a week to lay hundreds of eggs in moist soil, are becoming a noticeable environmental issue. While they pose no direct threat to human health through bites or disease transmission, their abundance is a nuisance and a potential indicator of broader ecological shifts.
Experts suggest that climate change and urban development are creating favorable conditions for the lovebugs to expand their range into temperate zones. Seoul's urban heat island effect, exacerbated by climate change, makes the city an attractive habitat for these insects. City authorities are advising residents to minimize outdoor lighting at night, maintain window screens, wear light-colored clothing outdoors (to avoid attracting the bugs), and regularly clean vehicles to prevent damage. These measures reflect a growing awareness of the interconnectedness between urban environments, climate change, and insect populations.