White phosphorus leak at US base forces evacuation, exposing risks of American presence in South Korea
A suspected white phosphorus leak at a US military base in South Korea forced nearby residents to evacuate, renewing concerns over the safety risks posed by the continued presence of American military installations in the country.
Authorities in the city of Pyeongtaek issued an evacuation order on Tuesday after the hazardous leak was reported at the US-run Osan Air Base, located about 70 kilometers south of Seoul.
Local officials urged nearby residents to move to a safe location and avoid skin exposure after the leak was detected. The evacuation order was lifted several hours later after authorities said decontamination work at the base had been completed.
Police established a security perimeter extending roughly 300 to 500 meters from the base, restricting pedestrian access and diverting traffic.
No major injuries or disruptions were immediately reported.
The US 51st Fighter Wing acknowledged a "ground mishap" at the base but did not confirm that white phosphorus had leaked. It said a 1,000-foot safety cordon was established "out of an abundance of caution" to protect the base and nearby residents.
"We are handling this matter with the utmost care and expediency," the unit said, adding that the safety of US personnel and local residents remained its "highest priority."
US Forces Korea declined to provide further details about the incident.
White phosphorus is a highly controversial incendiary substance used in military munitions and smoke shells. Once ignited, it burns at extremely high temperatures and can cause severe injuries, burning through human tissue and igniting buildings.
The United States has repeatedly drawn international condemnation for using white phosphorus in military operations in densely populated areas, including Gaza and other war zones.
Human rights organizations have warned that its use in civilian areas can inflict devastating and indiscriminate harm.
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