The National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS; President Kwon Soon-wook) reported that high water temperatures and strong currents are driving toxic jellyfish to spread along coasts nationwide faster than in previous years, urging vacationers to exercise particular caution as the summer holiday season approaches. 

The survey by NIFS found that the occurrence of Nomura’s jellyfish began roughly two weeks earlier than last year, and their numbers increased about fivefold over the same period, spreading along the East·Wsest·South Sea coasts. In particular, it was confirmed that occurrences of the highly toxic ghost jellyfish are increasing not only along the coast of Jeju Island but also in the waters of South Jeolla, South Gyeongsang, and Busan. 

As Nomura’s jellyfish and ghost jellyfish are projected to continue drifting from the East China Sea into domestic coastal waters on ocean currents, the risk of painful stings at beach and in coastal waters is expected to increase. 

To prevent jellyfish sting incidents, beachgoers should wear clothing that minimizes skin exposure. If stung by a jellyfish, it is important to immediately get out of the water and rinse the affected area with clean seawater or saline solution. If symptoms are severe, promptly visit a medical institution for treatment. 

Kwon Soon-wook, the president of NIFS said, “This year has seen the increasing appearance of toxic jellyfish, requiring special caution from people visiting beaches,” The president added, “To secure safety of the people and minimize damages to fisheries sites, NIFS will strengthen scientific response through on-going monitoring and prompt data provision.”