"'Bindae Fear' Spreads, Selling Like Hotcakes... Online Sales of Exterminators Surge 800%"

Gmarket Sees Surge in Sales of Bedbug Extermination Products

Recently, as reports of bedbugs have surged nationwide, spreading 'bedbug fear,' consumers are increasingly seeking bedbug extermination products.

According to Gmarket on the 7th, from the 31st of last month to the 6th of this month, sales of bedbug exterminators (insecticides) increased by 813% compared to the same period last year, and sales of bedding vacuum cleaners surged by 610%. In addition, demand for bed and mattress waterproof covers for bedbug prevention (111%) and high-temperature steamers (25%) also rose significantly.

As reports of bedbugs continue nationwide, the government decided to operate a 'National Bedbug Joint Situation Board.' On the 7th, a bedbug-related promotional poster was put up in Yeongdeungpo jjokbangchon, Seoul. Photo by Jo Yongjun jun21@

During the same period, transaction amounts for pest control products also surged on 11st. Sales of insecticides, repellents, and insect screens increased by 109% compared to the same period last year.

Bedbugs are pests that cause itching and secondary skin infections by feeding on human blood. Although they do not transmit infectious diseases, being bitten can cause more severe itching than other blood-sucking insects like mosquitoes. Due to their tenacious vitality, they are considered one of the worst pests to eradicate, capable of surviving up to six months without feeding on human or animal blood.

Recently, frequent bedbug issues have emerged overseas, including in France, and concerns about their spread are growing domestically as reports of bedbug bites flood in. Online, sightings of bedbugs in public places across the country are spreading rapidly.

On October 19, pest control company personnel are conducting disinfection to exterminate bedbugs at the dormitory of Keimyung University in Dalseo-gu, Daegu. Photo by Yonhap News

In fact, last month, a report was received of a student bitten by bedbugs in the dormitory of Keimyung University in Daegu, followed by bedbug appearances in a sauna in Incheon, and bedbugs have also been found in residential facilities such as goshiwons.

Meanwhile, according to the 'Bedbug Prevention and Response Guide' released by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, physical and chemical control measures using high-temperature steamers and insecticides are effective when bedbugs are found.

If bitten by bedbugs, first wash the area with water and soap, and consult a doctor or pharmacist for treatment methods and medication prescriptions based on symptoms. If exposed to bedbugs during travel, thoroughly disinfect travel items and seal them for long-term storage to aid in extermination.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.