NT6. Invasive alien species
06
Invasive alien species
Reduce the rates of establishment of invasive alien species by managing pathways, and mitigate threats to biodiversity by controlling or eradicating invasive alien species in priority sites.
Action plan tasks
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6-1Prevent the introduction of invasive alien species
- Expanding the scope of yet-to-be-introduced alien species subject to statutory management
- Undertaking the analysis of monitoring of introduction pathways
- Strengthening the prevention and control of the introduction of alien species
ㅇ Increase the number of alert alien species* from 700 in 2023 to 1,000 in 2025, develop a list of marine alien species that require preventive management, and undertake the development of an index to measure changes in the distribution of alien plant species starting in 2024. * Species that may damage domestic ecosystems when introduced. ㅇ Strengthen an ecosystem risk assessment of alert alien species by combining expert assessments with data-based assessments, and improve the management system for marine alien species through monitoring key introduction pathways from 2024.
ㅇ From 2025, operate an integrated platform for alien species that relies on ecosystem risk assessment technology to model the potential spread of alien species at the taxon level. ㅇ From 2021 to 2025, conduct population genetic analysis* to identify major pathways of the introduction of invasive alien plant species. * Molecular markers are used to analyze the genetic variation and distance in populations and assess genetic diversity within and between distribution sites. ㅇ Conduct research to investigate and prevent the transfer of harmful marine species through ballast water, and continue to monitor the management of ballast water in ships entering the ROK.
ㅇ From 2024, expand the network of Alien Species Collaborative Inspection Centers to the Busan and Pyeongtaek Customs Offices that have a high volume of custom clearances, and strengthen safety (risk) inspections during the customs clearance procedures to crack down on sources of illegal import and distribution. ㅇ Regularly monitor customs-bonded areas in key ports, and conduct joint inspections (ME, APQA, port authorities and NIE) of empty import containers that are exempt from quarantine to prevent the unintentional introduction of alien species. ㅇ Establish a hotline for reporting high-risk alien species and create a first response team to handle reports. Conduct joint investigations (NIE, ME, APQA and local governments) and implement coordinated controls upon detection of such species. -
6-2
- Bolstering the habitat survey of alien species
- Expanding the eradication of alien species
ㅇ Expand the scope of a survey of invasive species from inland areas to include islands, starting with Jeju Island and Ulleungdo Island, and undertake an intensive survey of invasive alien species, such as insects, including ants, that are suspected to have become established and spread. ㅇ From 2024, monitor major ports for the introduction of species of international concern for marine ecosystem disruption, and build a rapid response system.
ㅇ Ensure the focused management of ecosystem-disturbing species in the early stages of establishment and spread through joint control and monitoring. ㅇ Ensure that the removal and monitoring of ecosystem-disturbing species are tailored to local circumstances. - Introduce the concept of priority sites for management, such as ports, islands and protected areas, and ensure that relevant organizations, including the NIE, River Basin Environmental Offices and local governments, jointly conduct intensive monitoring at these sites to remove ecosystem disturbing species. - From 2025, monitor the density and distribution of invasive alien species in natural heritage sites (natural monuments) and protected island areas, and carry out regular eradication activities. - Identify areas where jellyfish polyps thrive in order to facilitate their removal and improve the existing prediction system for jellyfish outbreaks. ㅇ From 2024, conduct a fact-finding survey and engage local and international case studies to identify ways to utilize ecosystem-disturbing species following their removal.