White Phosphorus Leak at Pyeongtaek K-55 U.S. Base... Residents Ordered to 'Evacuate Immediately'

A toxic chemical, white phosphorus, leaked inside the K-55 U.S. military base in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, prompting the city to issue an emergency evacuation order.

Disaster Alert Notification. Provided by Pyeongtaek City

According to fire and police authorities, the incident occurred at around 4:54 p.m. on July 28, when white phosphorus was leaked at Osan Air Base (K-55), a U.S. military facility in Seotan-myeon, Pyeongtaek City.

White phosphorus generates white smoke when it comes into contact with oxygen, which is why it is used by the military as a smokescreen during transport.

It is highly reactive and can spontaneously ignite in air. If it comes into contact with skin, it can cause severe burns, and if a large amount of smoke is inhaled, it can be fatal.

Pyeongtaek City issued an emergency evacuation order through disaster alert notifications immediately after the accident, urging nearby residents to evacuate to a safe place to avoid skin exposure.

After receiving the report, fire authorities and the military are taking safety measures, working to determine the exact cause of the incident, and assessing the extent of the damage.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.