Foreigners Caught Collecting Cicada Larvae at Busan Ecological Park

Foreigners have been repeatedly spotted collecting cicada larvae for consumption purposes at Samnak Ecological Park in Sasang District, Busan.

On the 17th, SBS reported that foreigners were caught on camera rummaging through the grass in the park, gathering cicada larvae in large quantities.

A recently observed foreigner from China was seen collecting about 15 cicada larvae in a plastic bottle and openly stated that he was doing so for edible purposes.

In fact, there is a food culture in China and some regions of Southeast Asia where cicada larvae are consumed as snacks or side dishes, often fried in oil.

Concerns are growing over the ongoing collection activities.

Environmental organizations have expressed concerns that this collection activity is not a one-time event but is occurring continuously. Particularly at around 7 PM, it has been reported that a group of six or seven foreigners regularly appears, collecting larvae in plastic bags and bottles.

However, current laws do not classify cicadas as natural monuments or legally protected species, making it difficult to impose direct sanctions on their actions.

Naver TV 'SBS News'

Image Source: sbs news, reference photo for understanding the article / Channel A 'Family Crossing the Line'