White phosphorus leak triggers brief evacuation at US Osan base, South Korea

A leak of white phosphorus was reported around 16:54 local time at the United States Osan Air Base (also known as K‑55) near Pyeongtaek, South Korea. South Korean fire and police units dispatched nine vehicles and 31 responders to secure the area and issued a temporary evacuation order for nearby residents. The order was lifted after about half an hour once decontamination work by South Korean firefighters and U.S. forces was completed. No injuries were reported.

Authorities opened an investigation to determine the cause of the leak, which is believed to have originated from ammunition containing the highly reactive chemical. White phosphorus produces dense white smoke and can cause severe burns or fatal inhalation hazards if contacted.

Both South Korean officials and the U.S. military emphasized that the incident was handled with the highest priority and that safety of the local community remains a top concern.