U.S. military denies white phosphorus leak at South Korea air base

In South Korea, the U.S. military conducted an investigation following concerns about a suspected white phosphorus leak at the Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek. On July 28, 2026, local authorities issued evacuation alerts to residents, advising them to seek safe locations and avoid skin exposure due to fears of contamination. The alerts were prompted by initial reports of a leak, which led to consultations between city officials, the U.S. military, and South Korean emergency services. However, the U.S. military later confirmed that the substance identified during a routine inspection was not white phosphorus but rather non-hazardous surface corrosion resulting from environmental exposure over time. The evacuation alert was lifted the same day after the military completed decontamination efforts, and no injuries were reported. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and concerns surrounding the U.S. military presence in South Korea, where approximately 28,500 troops are stationed as a deterrent against North Korean aggression. The U.S. military expressed gratitude for the cooperation of local authorities in managing the situation and ensuring community safety.