South Korean officials ordered residents to evacuate after a reported white phosphorus leak at a U.S. military base near Seoul, South Korea, on Tuesday. The incident occurred at a U.S. military facility close to the capital, prompting authorities to issue a brief evacuation order. The leak was described by South Korean officials as a white phosphorus release, though details remain limited.
The U.S. military has not yet commented on the incident, and no injuries have been reported. White phosphorus is a chemical used in incendiary weapons and can be hazardous if inhaled or exposed to skin. South Korean authorities emphasized that the situation was under control and that the evacuation was temporary.
The incident has raised concerns about safety and transparency, with local residents expressing surprise at the sudden order. Officials have not confirmed the source of the leak or the extent of the exposure. Further details are expected as investigations continue. (winnipegfreepress.com)
