Current status and perspective of the insect industry in Korea

Abstract

Abstract Insects in Korea from ancient times were largely used in sericulture and apiculture and partly as medicines. Although silkworms are currently used as dietary supplements and medicine ingredients, the insect industry is not industrialized yet. Some insect species, such as beetles, stag beetles, and fireflies, are currently employed for sustainable agriculture as natural enemies and pollinators and also for education and as pets. Agricultural practice using natural enemies becomes the center of public interest. The market size of natural enemy use in 2008 is estimated at $14.2 to 16.2 million and that of pollinators is $10.9 to 11.7 million. Several local governments have successfully utilized insects as resources for festivals, expos or museums. A variety of insects are utilized for pet and educational purposes. The pet insect market in Korea was formed in the 2000s. The total market size of insect festivals and pet insects is around $44 million and $38.5~44.0 million, respectively. The total market size of the insect industry in Korea is estimated around $110 million, and is expected to increase up to $320 million by 2015. In the future, insects can be applied to foods, dietary supplements and medicines, and hygiene enabling disposal of food and animal wastes.