US forces confirm no white phosphorus leak at South Korean air base

On July 28, Pyeongtaek city authorities warned residents to move to safe locations after a possible white phosphorus leak was reported at Osan Air Base, located just south of Seoul. White phosphorus, used in incendiary weapons, can cause severe burns if ignited. The city lifted the evacuation order later that day following decontamination efforts coordinated with U.S. forces and South Korean police.

The U.S. military subsequently announced that testing showed the residue was merely surface corrosion, not white phosphorus, and posed no health risk. No injuries were reported. Colonel Ryan Ley, commander of the 51st Fighter Wing, expressed appreciation for the city's partnership in ensuring public safety. The incident occurs amid ongoing anti-U.S. sentiment in South Korea, highlighted by recent detentions of students protesting at the base.