★ The bee disappearance incident has caused a seismic shock in the scientific community. This book is written by Professor Kim Young-ho, who is at the forefront of solving this mystery. With the perspective of his beloved son, Professor Kim has crafted a heartwarming yet scientific read. It’s hard to find a book that explains the knowledge of an insect DNA expert in such an accessible way.
— Lee Si-hyuk (Professor, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Seoul National University; Former President of the Korean Society of Applied Entomology)

★ This is a remarkable book that conveys the tireless efforts and dedication of researchers still working on this issue to the next generation. Covering multiple fields of study, it warmly invites children into the world of science. Not only is it perfect for young minds about to embark on their scientific journey, but even experts in bee research can learn a great deal from it.
— Han Sang-mi (Head of Apiculture and Ecology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences; President of the Korean Beekeeping Society)

★ How serious is the bee disappearance crisis? So serious that people falsely attribute warnings to Einstein! If we keep ignoring it, someone might even fabricate a quote from King Sejong, like "A nation’s language and writing are nothing if the bees vanish..." It’s truly amazing how Professor Kim Young-ho tells this crucial story in a way children can understand, guiding them to care about the issue. In this sense, he is a true "science communicator."
— Galois (Author of Learning Insect Evolution Through Comics)

★ Whether in Korea or the U.S., I’ve never seen a book that explains the reasons behind bee disappearance so scientifically yet engagingly. Perfect for parents and children to read together and discuss, it tackles a scientific issue everyone should know about. A truly unique and brilliant book has been born.
— Lee Sang-bin (Professor, University of California, USA)

★ Clear, fun, and never obscure, this book takes readers through the investigation into the bee disappearance with the profound insight of a renowned bee researcher.
— Cho Yoon-sang (Head of Viral Disease Division, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency)

★ As a father of four and a fellow insect DNA researcher, I feel incredibly lucky that children get to read this book. It’s rare for young readers—outside of academic papers—to get a glimpse into real scientific research. If you’re curious about what a scientist dad’s authentic science storytelling sounds like, don’t hesitate—open this book now!
— Kim Joo-il (Professor, Plant Medicine, Kangwon National University)

★ Having worked closely with Professor Kim Young-ho, I’ve always admired his warmth and gentle nature. This book reflects not only his deep love for his son but also his sharp scientific perspective on the bee disappearance phenomenon—truly captivating.
— Park Jong-gyun (Professor, Insect Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University; Former President of the Korean Society of Applied Entomology)

★ This book unravels the mysterious bee disappearance, naturally teaching readers the core concepts of science and how to think like a scientist. Most importantly, it shows that the causes are not singular, fostering a multidimensional approach to real-world problems. I highly recommend it to children interested in environmental and life sciences, as well as educators aiming to cultivate scientific thinking and inquiry skills!
— Lee Hye-seon (Teacher, Seoul Wonhyo Elementary School; Lecturer, Seoul National University of Education)

★ With the keen insight of a bee expert, the author gathers global research and delivers it to the next generation—the future leaders. This is a powerful and meaningful science book.
— Park Ki-chung (Ph.D., Plant & Food Research, New Zealand)

★ My dad told me stories about disappearing bees, and this book captures them perfectly! Reading about bees suffering from mite attacks made me really sad. But it also made me so curious about why they’re vanishing that I couldn’t stop turning the pages. I highly recommend it to kids like me who dream of becoming scientists!
— Kim Yi-jin (6th Grader, Tuakau Pokeno School, New Zealand)

★ Nearly perfect ratings from Korean readers
★ Recommended by the chief editor of Kyobo Book Centre, Korea's largest bookstore
★ Did you know? Hundreds of billions of bees have disappeared worldwide! A leading academic chairman of the Korean Beekeeping Society and renowned DNA expert will guide children into the cutting-edge scientific investigation behind the mystery of the vanishing bees!

★ "Why is the Disappearance of Bees Such a Big Problem?"
An insect DNA expert on the front lines of solving the bee disappearance crisis reveals the shocking truth behind this mystery!

In recent years, reports of vanishing bees have surged, yet the issue remains unresolved. Hundreds of billions of bees have disappeared, leaving farmers struggling with agricultural challenges and sparking fears that the "golden age of bees" is over. But why are bees disappearing, and what can we do? These critical questions remain shrouded in uncertainty. Year after year, the same alarming headlines repeat—yet answers remain elusive.

Written by Kim Young-ho, a leading insect DNA expert actively investigating the bee disappearance, this book brings the forefront of scientific research to life. As a professor at Kyungpook National University’s Department of Insect Life Sciences, Kim conducts national-level research and participates in global academic discussions. Here, he vividly presents the real-world efforts of scientists tackling this crisis.

This book doesn’t just tell readers what is happening—it invites them to think like scientists, tracing the root causes of the disappearance and showcasing how researchers worldwide are collaborating to solve this unprecedented challenge. For anyone concerned about this issue, it provides a clear path forward—the "next step" we all need to take.

★ "A Rare Gem in Children’s Education: Blending Scientific Insight with Warmth"
This book stands out because it doesn’t just instill fear or assign vague "eco-friendly" roles to kids. Instead, it teaches them to analyze problems like scientists and seek solutions. The journey to uncovering the truth behind bee disappearance—using insect DNA science—feels like a thrilling detective story, sparking curiosity while building critical thinking skills grounded in solid knowledge.

What makes this book exceptional is that it’s written by a renowned expert who adapts complex concepts for young minds without oversimplifying. For example:

Comparing DNA sequences to website passwords

Explaining pesticide ingredients through the difference between oil and watercolor paints
Every explanation is crafted with care, as the author originally shared these insights with his elementary-school-aged son. From start to finish, the book radiates thoughtfulness and accessibility.

Adding to its charm are Lee Hyun-soo’s captivating bee illustrations, which draw readers in. The book’s rich visuals and carefully designed layout ensure kids stay engaged while learning—making it a truly unique educational experience.

★ "A Book Unlike Any Other—in Korea or the U.S.!"
Endorsed by Leading Experts: National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Seoul National University, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, and More!

Top bee researchers and scientists studying the disappearance phenomenon have unanimously praised this book. Kim Young-ho’s ability to synthesize global research and present it with a bee expert’s insight has impressed colleagues worldwide. It’s rare for a children’s book to achieve this level of scientific rigor and clarity—which is why experts from institutions like the Korean Beekeeping Society, UC Berkeley, and Seoul National University highly recommend it.

As Han Sang-mi (National Institute of Agricultural Sciences) notes, this book isn’t just for kids—even bee experts will learn from it. Lee Hye-seon (Wonhyo Elementary School) adds that it’s an invaluable resource for teachers fostering scientific thinking in classrooms.

Will Bees Really Go Extinct? isn’t just a book—it’s a call to action, inspiring us to envision a future where humans and bees thrive together. A must-read for the next generation of scientists, environmentalists, and curious minds!

Author
Kim Young-ho
Dr. Kim Young-ho holds a Ph.D. in Entomology from Seoul National University. He has served as a research professor at Seoul National University and a principal researcher in the Department of Entomology at Kansas State University (USA). Currently, he teaches in the Department of Insect Life Sciences at Kyungpook National University. As an expert in insect DNA, his research focuses on the relationship between mutant DNA and pesticides, viral infections in insects, and genes that respond to stress.
Academically active, Dr. Kim serves as an academic committee member of the Korean Society of Applied Entomology and the academic chairman of the Korean Beekeeping Society. He is also an active member of the Entomological Society of America. Additionally, he has accepted the role of honorary researcher in the beekeeping field at the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Notably, as a professional committee member of the Beekeeping Industry Association sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, he has been tirelessly working to address the mystery of disappearing bees. This book is his debut children's book.

Illustrator
Lee Hyun-soo
Lee Hyun-soo majored in animation at university and currently works as a picture book author and illustrator. He is passionate about using warm and cheerful illustrations to spark children's imagination. His self-written and illustrated books include Cosmic Express and Jellyfish Bus. He has also contributed illustrations to books such as Watermelon Planet, In the Depths of the Wound at That Time, The True Way to Become an Adult, Miraculous Vegetable Commando, I Am the Real Culprit!, and Bang Bang! Raindrop Amusement Park.

Preface

[Case Files] The Mystery of the Disappearing Bees
Just how many bees have vanished?
It's not just Korea—bees are disappearing worldwide!
Why is the disappearance of bees such a big problem?
Unraveling the mystery with bee DNA evidence!
The crucial PCR test in DNA investigation

[Prime Suspect #1] The Disease "Trio of Terror"
Caught! Disease-causing viruses inside bees
Which viruses have been tormenting bees?
It's not just viruses—bacteria and fungi too?!
How do bees get infected?
Just how widespread are these viruses?

[Suspect #2] The Illegal Invader—Varroa Mites
Varroa mites—what are they really?
Using DNA to uncover the stress caused by mites
DNA: The blueprint of life
Another unwanted guest brought by mites
What happens when we use pesticides on mites?
Mutant mites emerge—resistant to pesticides!
Bees suffering under "super-powered mutant mites"

[Suspect #3] The Silent Killer—Pesticides
Bees living in a pesticide-filled world
How bees get exposed to pesticides
Pesticides that even infiltrate bee hives
Pesticides are making bees behave strangely!
A major suspect—but not the only one!

[Final Suspect] The Ultimate Boss—Climate Change
Climate change: A looming crisis
"Is it winter?" Confused bees in a changing climate
Is there DNA that senses seasonal changes?
New enemies after driving out native wasps
Rising disease risks for stressed bees
Habitats and food sources altered by climate change

[Case Closed] The Conclusion of the Bee Disappearance Mystery
So, who is the real culprit behind the vanishing bees?
Author's Note