Gwangjin-gu Strengthens Food Safety with Intensive Radioactivity Testing of Seafood

Weekly Self-Testing at Gwangjin-gu Health Center to Alleviate Anxiety over Fukushima Nuclear Accident
Random Selection of 120 Types of Live Fish and Seaweed Distributed in Market, Prioritizing Japanese Products
Real-Time Disclosure of Test Results and Concurrent Origin Labeling Inspections to Ensure Food Safety

Gwangjin-gu (District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho) operates a food radiation testing laboratory that independently inspects seafood distributed in the area.

This measure aims to alleviate consumer anxiety following the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident. The Gwangjin-gu Public Health Center randomly selects seafood distributed in the market for weekly testing and publicly discloses the results.

The inspection targets 120 types of seafood, including live fish, fresh fish, and seaweed. Japanese seafood is prioritized for collection and inspection, with a focus on top-consumed items such as mackerel, pollock, and cod.

Samples are collected from seafood vendors in traditional markets and supermarkets before analysis begins. The testing uses a "food-dedicated gamma nuclide detector," allowing results to be confirmed quickly within one hour.

The district applies a strict standard of 10 Bq, which is more stringent than South Korea's national standard of 100 Bq/kg. If radiation exceeds this level, a detailed examination is requested from the Seoul Institute of Health and Environment. If abnormalities persist after re-examination, distribution and sales will be immediately prohibited, and all products will be recalled and disposed of.

Test results are disclosed in real time on the Gwangjin-gu website. Additionally, transparency will be enhanced through inspections of seafood origin labeling. Administrative measures such as fines will be imposed if origin labels are missing or falsely stated.

Kim Kyung-ho, Mayor of Gwangjin-gu, stated, "We introduced the radiation testing laboratory to alleviate residents' concerns about seafood consumption," and added, "We will ensure food safety through professional and systematic testing."

The district conducted a total of 73 tests from December last year to January this year, with all items passing, thereby proving the safety of seafood.