South Korea becomes first country to achieve nationwide aquatic animal disease freedom

SOUTH KOREA – In a milestone achievement for global aquaculture and aquatic health, the Republic of Korea has become the first country to self-declare nationwide freedom from aquatic animal diseases across fish, shellfish, and crustacean species. 

This unprecedented status, covering the entire country, was officially published on the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) website, following a rigorous review process.

This accomplishment is the result of a long-term, government-led effort to align the country’s aquatic animal disease control measures with WOAH standards. 

South Korea has established a comprehensive disease management system under its Aquatic Organism Disease Control Act, enacted in 2008, to safeguard its aquatic ecosystem and promote a sustainable aquaculture industry.

The National Fishery Products Quality Management Service (NFQS), the competent authority for aquatic health in the country, has led this initiative. 

Since 2019, the Republic of Korea has progressively declared itself free from a growing number of aquatic diseases, including infectious salmon anaemia, Gyrodactylus salaris infection, abalone herpesvirus, infectious hypodermal and haematopoietic necrosis virus, salmonid alphavirus, and yellowhead virus genotype 1. 

These declarations are based on over 15 years of targeted surveillance and strict adherence to international diagnostic protocols.

Surveillance-driven certification and biosecurity infrastructure

South Korea’s aquatic biosecurity system is founded on early detection, mandatory reporting, and ongoing training. Farmers are legally required to notify the authorities of any signs of disease in their stock, and they undergo regular training to remain vigilant. 

Disease surveillance is conducted by trained inspectors who visit each aquaculture farm twice a year, during periods when disease detection is most likely, to collect samples and conduct interviews. 

More than 15,000 general surveillance inspections are conducted annually, in addition to 600 targeted checks on farms that raise WOAH-designated susceptible species.

All collected samples are tested in accredited laboratories following the WOAH Aquatic Manual, and the resulting data are uploaded to a national database. 

In cases of clinical disease or confirmed infections, the government deploys structured containment measures to prevent further spread. Imported aquatic animals are also subject to quarantine to protect the country from exotic pathogens.

Transparency and scientific rigour have been central to the Republic of Korea’s approach. While many countries issue self-declarations of disease freedom without further scrutiny, South Korea voluntarily submits its claims to WOAH’s formal administrative and technical review. 

This has not only strengthened trust with international trading partners but also reinforced the credibility of its aquatic health programme.

Maintaining this disease-free status is an ongoing effort. The government continues to invest in surveillance and upholds its biosecurity standards in line with WOAH guidelines. 

Looking ahead, South Korea aims to expand its disease-free declarations to encompass a total of ten aquatic diseases by 2028, further solidifying its position as a global leader in aquatic health management.

This landmark accomplishment not only enhances the resilience and sustainability of Korea’s aquaculture sector but also offers a compelling model for other countries seeking to strengthen their aquatic biosecurity systems and protect global food security.

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