where did lanternflies come from

Lanternflies, specifically the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), originated from parts of Asia, primarily southwestern China. They are also native to regions including Vietnam, Bangladesh, and South Korea. The species has diverged into several lineages in their native range and has expanded northward in China. This insect was accidentally introduced into new regions such as South Korea and later the United States, where it was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 but likely introduced around 2012. The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species in these new locations, causing damage to various crops and trees. Its natural habitat and origin are in subtropical parts of Southeast Asia, mainly China.