Establishment of <i>Sagra femorata</i> (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in South Korea

Abstract We report the first establishment of Sagra femorata (Drury, 1773) in Yeosu, South Korea, in July 2025. A preliminary field survey of 20 sites with suitable habitats near the initial detection site revealed the beetle’s presence in seven sites. The only host plant observed was Pueraria montana (kudzu), consistent with reports from non-native populations in Japan. Prior records of interceptions as maritime hitchhikers highlight the importance of marine quarantine and proper documentation. Given the excessive spread of kudzu in Korea and the limited crop impact reported in nearby regions, S. femorata warrants sustained monitoring over immediate eradication efforts.