The investigation was initiated earlier in July following unconfirmed reports that North Korea may have released radioactive wastewater from a uranium facility into waterways leading south. South Korean authorities responded by collecting water samples from locations along the inter-Korean border, including Ganghwa Island and the Han River estuary—areas potentially exposed to flow from the Ryesong River.

The tests specifically screened for radioactive substances such as uranium and cesium, as well as five types of heavy metals. “The results showed no abnormalities,” said Chang Yoon-jeong, deputy spokesperson for the Unification Ministry. She added that the findings indicate no immediate threat to public safety.

Although no contamination has been detected, South Korea announced that it will maintain monthly surveillance at seven strategic sites to ensure early detection of any future risks. The government has framed this continued monitoring as a precautionary measure to uphold environmental transparency and public confidence.

There has been no official comment from North Korean authorities regarding the reported wastewater release. However, the lack of immediate danger has eased public anxiety while keeping attention focused on long-term environmental oversight in the demilitarized border zone.