SUSPECTED WHITE PHOSPHORUS LEAK AT US BASE TRIGGERS EVACUATION IN SOUTH KOREA

Tue 28 July 2026:

South Korean authorities issued an emergency alert on Tuesday following reports of a suspected white phosphorus leak at the K-55 Osan Air Base, a US military installation in Pyeongtaek, Yonhap News Agency reported.

Police received an emergency call at around 5:07 p.m. local time reporting a possible leak at the base, located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Seoul.

The Pyeongtaek city government warned nearby residents of a potential white phosphorus leak and advised those living close to the base to move to a safe location to avoid possible skin exposure.

Officials said the leak originated from two munitions that released an unspecified amount of the chemical. No injuries were reported.

According to the US military, the leaked substance was approximately 80% diluted, posing a low risk to both public health and the environment.

__________________________________________________________________________

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAtNxX8fewmiFmN7N22

__________________________________________________________________________

About 36 minutes after the initial warning, local authorities lifted the evacuation advisory, stating that the situation had been brought under control and residents could safely return to their normal activities.

Firefighters and emergency personnel responded to the incident, securing the area while a US military explosive ordnance disposal team worked alongside South Korean firefighters.

A police official said the chemical, used in cleaning warheads, leaked inside the K-55 munitions depot but confirmed that US military officials had contained the incident and there was no ongoing threat.

White phosphorus is a highly reactive chemical that ignites upon contact with oxygen. It is commonly used by militaries in smoke and illumination munitions, and direct exposure can cause severe burns and other serious health risks.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

__________________________________________________________________________

FOLLOW INDEPENDENT PRESS:

WhatsApp CHANNEL
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAtNxX8fewmiFmN7N22