Civic Groups: "Thorough Air Pollution Investigation Needed After Kumho Tire Fire"

33 Organizations Demand Comprehensive Investigation of Hazardous Substances
Call for Complete Review of Response Manuals and Systems
Urgent Need for Resident Notification and Protection Measures

Civic groups in Gwangju are calling for a thorough investigation into the impact of the Kumho Tire Gwangju factory fire on public health and the environment, as well as measures to prevent a recurrence.

A large fire at Kumho Tire's Gwangju factory has covered the sky with thick black smoke. Provided by Gwangsan-gu

On May 19, a coalition of 33 organizations, including the Gwangju Citizens’ Coalition and the Gwangju-Jeonnam Women’s Association United, issued a joint statement, saying, “This fire is not merely a factory disaster, but an incident that fundamentally calls into question the region’s safety net and environmental response system.” They demanded, “The government and the city of Gwangju must fully disclose the entire process of the incident and establish structural countermeasures.”

The organizations specifically raised concerns about the possible release of hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere. They stressed the urgent need to secure actual air pollution measurement data and to analyze the scope of the impact, including which substances were released and in what quantities.

They also stated, “It is necessary to examine whether the Gwangsan-gu chemical accident response manual, which was established following the past TCE leak incident at Hanam Industrial Complex, functioned properly in this case.” They added, “The manual should also be revised to account for large-scale fires.”

The groups pointed out structural issues in residential areas near industrial complexes and called for institutionalizing stronger environmental impact assessments, stricter safety requirements, and the creation of buffer zones in future urban development projects.

They further emphasized the need to evaluate whether residents received appropriate health guidelines and evacuation instructions immediately after the incident. They stated, “A rapid alert and evacuation system must be established in the event of similar accidents in the future.”

The organizations urged the government and the city of Gwangju to conduct a fair investigation and formulate countermeasures with the participation of experts and civil society. They stressed, “The demands for the life and safety of local residents are non-negotiable.”