The U.S. has denied reports of a white phosphorus leak at an air base in South Korea
The U.S. military has completed its investigation into the incident at Osan Air Base in South Korea and stated that there was no white phosphorus leak. The substance, which was initially believed to be hazardous, turned out to be ordinary surface corrosion, and there were no casualties.
On July 28, the Pyeongtaek city government sent a notice to residents urging them to immediately leave the danger zone and avoid skin contact with the unknown substance.
Earlier reports had indicated a possible white phosphorus leak at Osan Air Base, located south of Seoul.
White phosphorus is used in incendiary munitions and smoke shells. When ignited, it reaches extremely high temperatures, can cause fires, and inflict severe burns.
A statement from the U.S. military noted that crystalline residues were discovered during a routine ammunition inspection, but laboratory analysis confirmed that they did not contain white phosphorus.
Further investigation determined that the deposits found were harmless surface corrosion resulting from prolonged exposure to the environment.
No one was injured, and there is no threat to the public.
Colonel Ryan Ley, commander of the 51st Fighter Wing, thanked local authorities for their cooperation during the incident.
“We value our close cooperation with the city to ensure the safety of our community, and we thank everyone for their patience while our team worked to resolve this situation,” he said.
Currently, the U.S. maintains approximately 28,500 military personnel in South Korea as a deterrent against potential aggressive actions by North Korea.
At the same time, the U.S. military presence periodically becomes the subject of public debate and protests. For example, earlier this week, eight South Korean students were detained after illegally entering the Osan Air Base, where they chanted anti-American slogans.
This was reported by The Independent.
As a reminder, South Korea temporarily ordered the evacuation of residents near the U.S. K-55 Osan Air Base due to a white phosphorus leak. According to preliminary reports, no one was injured, and after assessing the situation, authorities lifted the warning.
