South Korea's Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has reported a total of 5252 deaths among marine protected species over the past six years, according to data provided by Rep. Maeng Seong-gyu. The majority of these deaths were due to overfishing, habitat damage from coastal development, environmental pollution, and marine debris. The black hoe species was the most commonly reported cause of death, accounting for 96% of the total. Rep. Maeng has called for a comprehensive investigation into the population, distribution, and behavior of these species to preserve their habitat and maintain the marine ecosystem. He also suggested measures to reduce overfishing and the use of mixed catches, and stressed the need to reduce marine debris to create a sustainable sea.