Ministry of Environment: "No Issues with Drinking Water Despite Algal Bloom Occurrence"

“Algal toxins in the water purification plant are not detected”

On the 20th, the Ministry of Environment emphasized that there is "no abnormality" regarding drinking water safety amid the occurrence of algal blooms.

Currently, major rivers are experiencing algal blooms due to prolonged heatwaves following longer-than-usual monsoon rains. An algae alert warning has been issued for Daecheongho Lake on the Geum River and Boryeongho Lake due to the spread of algal blooms, while the Nakdong River areas of Haepyeong, Gangjeong-Goryeong, Chilseo, Mulgeummaeri, and Yongdamho Lake on the Geum River have been placed under the interest stage. Notably, algal blooms have also occurred in Paldangho Lake, the largest drinking water source in the Seoul metropolitan area, raising concerns about drinking water safety.

A Ministry of Environment official explained, "At seven water treatment plants using Daecheongho and Boryeongho Lakes, where the warning stage has been issued, local governments as water service providers and the Korea Water Resources Corporation are implementing measures such as installing algae barriers, adding powdered activated carbon, and strengthening advanced treatment." The official added, "We are intensifying monitoring of algal toxins, and currently, no algal toxins have been detected, ensuring safe supply of tap water."

Regarding the main stream of the Nakdong River, the official stated, "All 18 water treatment plants using it as a water source have introduced advanced water treatment facilities to ensure proper processing," and added, "Since August, dam, weir, and sluice gate operations have been coordinated to reduce algal blooms."

In response to complaints from households in the Seoul metropolitan area about unusual water taste following the algal bloom occurrence, the official firmly stated, "It is not harmful to human health." They further explained, "Algal toxins and odors are different issues, and the odor is a harmless psychological factor," and said, "We recommend residents boil water before drinking."

Additionally, the Ministry of Environment announced that if the heatwave continues and algal blooms worsen, they will dispatch the Regional Environmental Office and the Regional Water Support Center to vulnerable water treatment plants to provide technical support.