[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Haeyoung] The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on the 17th that it will investigate the water quality and beach contamination levels of 267 beaches nationwide that will open this year.
First, they plan to check whether Enterococcus and Escherichia coli are detected in the seawater. Enterococcus and Escherichia coli are highly related to diseases that can be transmitted through water.
Regarding the beach soil, they will examine whether five substances?lead, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, mercury, and arsenic?are detected. These substances are included in the standards applied when inspecting sand used for children's activities.
If the test results show substances or components exceeding the standard values, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will conduct re-investigation and cause analysis. If necessary, the opening of the beach will also be postponed. The investigation will continue until next month.
The investigation results can be checked on the National Marine Environment Information Portal.
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