The South Korean government, led by the Central Accident Management Headquarters for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), has intensified its response to recent H5N1 outbreaks. On February 7, 2025, new cases were confirmed at a layer chicken farm in Bonghwa, Gyeongbuk (approximately 390,000 birds) and a breeder duck farm in Geochang, Gyeongnam (around 7,000 birds). These incidents prompted an emergency meeting chaired by the Vice Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, involving related agencies and local governments. The main objective is to prevent further spread of HPAI and protect the national poultry industry through immediate and coordinated action.
The outbreaks impact poultry farmers, local governments, and related industries across South Korea. Since the start of the 2025/26 winter season, there have been 41 confirmed HPAI cases in poultry, affecting chickens, ducks, quails, and geese. Wild birds have also tested positive for HPAI in 44 instances, indicating a heightened risk of transmission. The government has issued movement restrictions, conducted culling, and increased inspections, especially in high-density and large-scale farms.
Key measures include immediate farm lockdowns, culling of affected flocks, and epidemiological investigations. From February 7 to 8, 2025, a 24-hour standstill order was enforced in adjacent regions to halt livestock and vehicle movement. Enhanced disinfection protocols, environmental testing, and special inspections of large farms and related facilities are ongoing until at least February 27, 2025. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted ahead of the Lunar New Year to minimize farm visits and reduce risk.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the impact on egg supply? The culling of 1.04 million layer chickens since February represents only 1.2% of the national flock, so supply remains stable. What should poultry farmers do? Farmers must rigorously disinfect vehicles, equipment, and personnel, and comply with all movement and biosecurity orders. The government urges all stakeholders to maintain vigilance, as outbreaks are occurring nationwide and no region is exempt from risk.
Metaqsol opinion: The South Korean government’s swift and coordinated response to the H5N1 outbreaks is grounded in robust policy and effective implementation. The combination of immediate culling, movement restrictions, and enhanced disinfection reflects best practices in animal disease control. The relatively small impact on the national egg supply indicates that these measures are containing the outbreak without major market disruption. Ongoing vigilance, especially during periods of increased movement such as the Lunar New Year, will be critical to maintaining control and safeguarding the poultry industry.