Seoul: South Korea announced that no unusual levels of radioactive or heavy metal contamination have been detected in river water samples. This announcement comes amid concerns regarding a potential wastewater release from a North Korean uranium refining facility.

According to Anadolu Agency, experts conducted tests at 10 locations near the inter-Korean border earlier this month. They analyzed samples for uranium, cesium, and five types of heavy metals. The Unification Ministry, cited by the Yonhap News Agency, reported that the findings showed no abnormalities.

Earlier in the month, South Korean authorities took samples from 10 locations, including Ganghwa Island and the Han River estuary. These samples were tested for radioactive substances like cesium and uranium, as well as heavy metals. This action followed reports suggesting that North Korea may have discharged wastewater from its Pyongsan County uranium plant into the Ryesong River, flowing toward South Korea.

Ministry deputy spokesperson Chang Yoon-jeong stated that the findings suggest no immediate contamination. However, South Korea plans to continue monthly monitoring at seven key sites to ensure public safety and maintain transparency. There has been no immediate response from North Korean authorities.