The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said genetic material from the Plasmodium vivax malaria parasite was found in Anopheles mosquitoes collected in Paju and Yeoncheon County between July 27 and Aug. 2, Anadolu Agency reported.
The agency warned that the discovery means people face a higher risk of contracting malaria through the bite of an infected mosquito.
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“The detection of the parasite in vector mosquitoes means that the likelihood of contracting malaria from the bite of an infected mosquito has increased,” the KDCA said.
The nationwide alert follows a malaria advisory issued June 22 after authorities recorded an increase in mosquito populations capable of transmitting the disease. Alerts were later issued in five areas following clusters of cases and further increases in mosquito numbers.
Despite the latest nationwide warning, domestically acquired malaria cases have declined compared with last year. South Korea recorded 201 cases between Jan. 1 and Aug. 1, down 43.4% from the 355 cases reported during the same period in 2025.
Malaria has historically been concentrated in areas close to the Demilitarized Zone separating South Korea and North Korea. However, health authorities say risk areas have expanded in recent years.
The alert comes as South Korea experiences an unusually hot summer. The KDCA said mosquito density remains lower than last year, partly because of the extreme heat.
However, officials warned that mosquito populations could rebound once temperatures begin to fall, potentially increasing the risk of malaria transmission.
Authorities in malaria-risk areas have been urged to strengthen mosquito-control measures, while residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, particularly at night.
Health officials recommend avoiding nighttime outdoor activities where possible, wearing long clothing and using mosquito repellents, window screens and mosquito nets.
People who develop possible malaria symptoms, including fever and chills, have also been urged to seek testing at a public health center or medical facility.
