20s Korean Caught Catching Scorpions in South Africa, Fined 27 Million Won 'Sudden Blow'

Illegal Possession of Wildlife...Fine or Up to 2 Years Imprisonment
South Africa Known for Strict Wildlife Protection

A man in his 20s from Korea was fined approximately 27 million KRW (including penalties) in South Africa for illegally collecting scorpions during his trip.

On the 27th (local time), the Korean Embassy in South Africa announced that Kim Mo (26) was caught during a checkpoint inspection after capturing about 10 scorpions in Paarl, a famous wine region located about 60 km east of Cape Town, on December 26 last year.

Kim was subsequently detained for over a month at the Allandale Prison in Paarl and was prosecuted for illegal possession of wildlife, undergoing trial.

The Paarl Magistrate's Court in Western Cape Province, South Africa, sentenced Kim on the 27th to a fine of 381,676 Rand (approximately 27 million KRW) or a 2-year prison term. According to the court, 341,676 Rand (about 24 million KRW) of the fine is a penalty that must be paid even if he serves two years in prison.

Scorpion of Africa. The photo is not directly related to the article content. [Image source=Pixabay]

Kim is reportedly planning to consult with his lawyer based on the judgment document to decide whether to appeal.

South Africa is known for its strict ecosystem protection regulations. In 2019, a Korean tourist was arrested for violating wildlife laws, trespassing on private property, and theft after picking flowers on the beach in Northern Cape Province and storing them in a car, and was released after paying a fine.

In particular, hunting the so-called "Big 5" (rhinoceros, elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard), which represent South Africa, is known to be punished so severely that it is treated almost like murder.

An embassy official urged special caution, stating, "South Africa strictly punishes illegal collection of wildlife without permission."

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