Gwangsan District Council in Gwangju Urges Accountability for 'Groundwater Contamination'

Neglected for Two Years...
Calls for Audit and Implementation of Purification Measures
Integration of Gwangju City and Gwangsan District Task Forces,
Strengthening Budget and Response Efforts

Regarding the incident in which a Class 1 carcinogen was detected in groundwater at the Hanam Industrial Complex in Gwangsan District, Gwangju, at levels hundreds of times above the standard, the Gwangsan District Council has called for administrative accountability and the establishment of purification measures.

On the 15th, members of the Gwangsan District Council issued a statement calling for accountability and the establishment of purification measures regarding the groundwater contamination incident at Hanam Industrial Complex. Provided by Gwangsan District Council

On the 15th, the council issued a statement criticizing, "Gwangsan District was aware of the contamination but neglected it for two years," and described this as "a clear case of dereliction of duty." The statement further pointed out, "Gwangju City avoided responsibility by claiming that groundwater management authority lies with the district office, while the district office belatedly issued an apology, formed a task force, and conducted emergency water quality tests, but these actions amount to nothing more than a delayed response."

The council also noted that while it is fortunate that emergency water quality tests at daycare centers, schools, and hospitals returned satisfactory results, residents remain anxious. The council demanded a thorough investigation and the establishment of a monitoring system, emphasizing that the audit and accountability promised by the district mayor must be fully carried out.

Additionally, the council urged Gwangju City and Gwangsan District to integrate their respective task forces to establish an efficient response system, cooperate on implementing measures to purify the contamination and prevent its spread, and secure the necessary budget. The council also called for the prompt suspension and closure of contaminated wells within the industrial complex and requested the development of mid- to long-term measures to protect the health of workers and residents.