White phosphorus leak at US Osan Air Base in South Korea prompts brief civilian evacuation

Published Jul 28, 02:39 PM UTC

A white phosphorus leak at the U.S. Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, prompted local authorities to order a brief evacuation of nearby civilians on Tuesday. The leak was detected around 5 p.m., and officials advised residents to move to safe locations. White phosphorus is a hazardous chemical that can cause severe burns and is used in military applications. The incident is described as a 'ground mishap' by the U.S. military. No casualties or further details on the cause have been reported. The evacuation order was lifted after the situation was contained.