Jeonbuk Institute of Health and Environment Conducts Water Quality Inspections at Eight Beaches

Focused Testing for Enterococci and Escherichia Coli

The Jeonbuk Institute of Health and Environment has begun water quality inspections at eight major beaches in the province this month, ahead of the official summer beach season.

According to the Jeonbuk Institute of Health and Environment on June 11, the inspections are being conducted at a total of eight beaches in the province: Seonyudo in Gunsan (one location); Gushipo and Dongho in Gochang (two locations); and Gyeokpo, Gosapo, Mohang, Byeonsan, and Wido in Buan (five locations). The inspections focus on testing for enterococci and Escherichia coli, which can cause waterborne diseases such as gastroenteritis.

Jeonbuk Provincial Government Office view. Provided by Jeonbuk Province.

The beaches in the province are scheduled to open sequentially starting July 4. In line with this schedule, water quality inspections will be conducted once a month before opening (June) and after closing (September), and twice a month at two-week intervals during the peak season in July and August.

If any of the test results are found to be unsatisfactory, the Jeonbuk Institute of Health and Environment will immediately conduct a re-examination and investigate the cause. Depending on the situation, immediate on-site measures will be taken, such as broadcasting warnings to prohibit swimming, installing warning signs, and disclosing sources of contamination.

The results of the water quality inspections will be promptly provided to each city and county, and will also be posted on the website of the provincial Institute of Health and Environment, allowing residents and tourists to easily check water quality information.

Meanwhile, in the 2024 inspection, all beaches in the province met the water quality standards. This year as well, the province plans to focus on creating a clean and safe environment for water activities through thorough inspections and prompt responses.

Jeon Kyungsik, Director of the Jeonbuk Institute of Health and Environment, stated, "We will do our utmost to conduct precise water quality inspections and provide rapid information so that residents and tourists visiting the province's beaches can enjoy a safe summer."