NIFS reported massive Porpita porpita (2-3cm in diameter, often mistaken for single jellyfish) has been occurring in the southern and eastern coast of S. Korea such as Jeonnam, Gyeongnam, Busan, Gyeongbuk, etc., after the first occurrence in the sea areas of Jeju Island on June 17. NIFS also projected the occurrence would be dispersed up to the sea areas of Gangwon around this weekend. 

P. porpita has a mild venom -which is generally not considered poisonous- and inflicts less damage to the fisheries. However, most encounters result in a localized skin irritation or allergic reactions, so direct skin contact is not recommended. 

Earlier, there was a massive occurrence of P. porpita around the coast of Jeju Island in October 2021. However, this year is the first time to see the mass inflow into the southern and eastern coast of S. Korea. According to NIFS, the increase in climate change-driven sea water temperature and the stronger Tsushima Warm Current were the reason behind the dispersion. 

P. porpita has been distributed in subtropical oceans worldwide, and are seen floating on the waters surface and propelled by sea currents and wind. They primarily feed on small plankton using radiating tantacles while habitating near the waters surface. 

The President of NIFS said, “Climate change increases the frequency of subtropical jellyfish occurrence. Amid growing concerns over beachgovers and fishermen being stung, local governments and concerned organizations are urged to actively cooperate in swiftly removing the jellyfish in the sea areas.”