Yongin semiconductor cluster discharge sparks backlash from Anseong farmers... Gyeonggi Province orders "minimization of wastewater"

A dispute has erupted between residents of Anseong, South Korea, and a representative of the Ulsan semiconductor cluster. The conflict centers around the planned release of 58,000 cubic meters of raw water into nearby rivers to supply water for semiconductor manufacturing processes. The local government of Anseong has formally requested a delay in the planned release, citing concerns about the safety of reservoirs and the impact on agriculture and the environment.

The situation escalated after the release of information about the planned water release, leading to protests from several hundred residents, including farmers and community organizations. They argue that the release of chemicals used in semiconductor manufacturing processes could lead to long-term ecological changes and water pollution, threatening the agriculture and image of Anseong.

They also point out that the province of Gyeonggi has urged semiconductor companies to invest in minimizing waste water and strengthening environmental assessments.

In response to the growing tensions, the governor of Gyeonggi province, Kim Hee-sun, has issued a series of directives to the semiconductor industry. These directives include minimizing water usage in manufacturing processes, strengthening environmental impact assessments, and ensuring transparent communication with residents. Kim emphasized that the release of water cannot proceed until the completion of a required environmental survey and that residents must be given the opportunity to inspect the site directly.

Failure to comply with these directives, Kim warned, would result in serious consequences for both the industry and the local community.