South Korea’s Antibiotic Use and Resistance: A Growing Concern
South Korea is facing significant challenges in antibiotic use and resistance, particularly when compared to major developed nations. Recent data reveals that the levels of antibiotic consumption and the associated resistance rates in the country are notably high.
Current Trends in Agricultural Antibiotic Sales
The livestock sector in South Korea continues to see elevated antibiotic sales. Official statistics indicate that livestock antibiotic sales surged to 240 mg/PCU in 2024, an increase from 217 mg/PCU in 2020. For context, the European average across 17 countries was significantly lower at 88.5 mg/PCU in 2023.
Rising Resistance Rates in Bacteria
The situation is further complicated by rising resistance rates. In 2024, 17.1% of Escherichia coli isolated from chickens in South Korea showed resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. This is starkly higher than resistance rates in the United States, which reported a mere 3.5%, and Japan, with only 0.7% in 2022.
National Response: The Third National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance
In response to these alarming trends, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has unveiled the Third National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance for the period of 2026-2030. This comprehensive five-year roadmap emphasizes measurable objectives, particularly focusing on reducing antibiotic consumption and resistance in both human and animal sectors.
Adopting Global Benchmarks
The new plan introduces a significant change in measuring antibiotic sales in animals. South Korea currently utilizes the metric of milligrams per population correction unit (mg/PCU). By 2029, it will also incorporate milligrams per animal biomass (mg/Animal Biomass), a standard recommended by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). This change aims to enhance international comparability and ensure transparency as antimicrobial resistance aligns with global sustainability and trade expectations.
Enhanced Veterinary Prescription Control
Under the new action plan, all antibiotics used in livestock and aquaculture must be prescribed by veterinary professionals. The national veterinary prescription management system will be upgraded to allow for better tracking and evaluation of antibiotic consumption volumes. Additionally, any previously approved veterinary antibiotics, particularly those used in aquaculture, will undergo a re-evaluation to ensure their safety and efficacy meet current scientific standards.
Strengthening Disease Prevention and Surveillance
A key aspect of the strategy is to reduce the demand for antibiotics by enhancing disease prevention measures. There will be expanded guidance and support for vaccine development against critical diseases like porcine epidemic diarrhoea. Moreover, 100 farms will receive support for facility modernization, focusing on improving ventilation, biosecurity, and overall resilience against diseases.
The initiative also aims to increase the number of certified organic and antibiotic-free livestock operations, along with farms compliant with HACCP safety standards, to 850. This expansion is intended to promote voluntary reductions in antibiotic use while boosting consumer confidence in food safety.
Conclusion
South Korea’s new action plan represents a proactive and comprehensive approach to tackling the pressing issues of antibiotic use and resistance. Through improved monitoring, stricter regulations, and a focus on prevention, the nation aims to align itself with global standards and protect public health.
