New Case Brings Total to Twenty Across the Country South Korea reported its 20th African swine fever (ASF) infection on 23 February 2026 at a pig farm in Euiryeong, South Gyeongsang Province, raising the seasonal tally to twenty cases [1]. The outbreak follows the nation’s first ASF case of the year, recorded earlier in February in Gangneung after a two‑month disease‑free period [1]. Authorities have logged the incident as part of a broader surveillance effort tracking the spread of the virus throughout the peninsula [1].

Central Disaster Headquarters Orders Complete Pig Culling The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters announced an immediate epidemiological investigation and will order the culling of every pig on the Euiryeong farm to halt further transmission [1]. Access to the site has been barred for all personnel pending the investigation, and disposal procedures are being coordinated with local quarantine officials [1]. The decisive action reflects the government’s zero‑tolerance policy for ASF containment.

Disinfection Operations Expanded to Nearby Regions Quarantine teams performed extensive disinfection at a field in Wonju, about 90 km southeast of Seoul, on 10 February 2026, indicating proactive measures beyond the confirmed outbreak locations [1]. Officials continue to sanitize farms and transport routes in surrounding provinces to reduce the risk of viral spread [1]. The ongoing decontamination underscores the nationwide effort to protect the swine industry.

ASF Remains Fatal to Swine but Harmless to Humans African swine fever is lethal to pigs and currently has no effective vaccine or cure, making rapid response essential [1]. The virus does not infect humans, eliminating direct public health concerns but posing severe economic threats to pork producers [1]. Continuous monitoring and strict biosecurity protocols are emphasized to prevent future outbreaks.