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Busan City Enhances Citizen Health Protection… Expands Air Pollution Forecast Notification Service

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The Busan Institute of Health and Environment (hereinafter referred to as the "Institute") announced that it will revise and implement the delivery method of the “Air Pollution Forecast Notification Service” (hereinafter referred to as the “Notification Service”) to minimize public health damage caused by high concentrations of ozone and fine particulate matter.

○ [Ozone (O₃)] is a colorless gas formed when an oxygen molecule (O₂) combines with an oxygen atom (O). It is highly reactive and a strong oxidizing agent with a pungent, fishy odor. It can damage the respiratory tract and lungs, and irritate sensory organs (such as eyes and nose), thereby posing significant health risks to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

○ [Fine particulate matter (PM2.5)] refers to extremely small particles—20 to 30 times thinner than a human hair—emitted directly from industrial activities or formed through chemical reactions of precursor substances. Due to their small size, they can penetrate deep into the lungs and, with long-term exposure, may cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and skin disorders.

Previously, the "Bad or Worse" forecasts announced by the National Institute of Environmental Research (hereinafter referred to as the “Institute”) were provided only once at 5 p.m. the day before. Starting in August, these will be sent twice daily, with the addition of 5 a.m. forecasts on the same day.

○ The Institute issues ▲fine dust forecasts four times a day (5 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m., and 11 p.m.), and ▲ozone forecasts three times a day (5 a.m., 11 a.m., and 5 p.m.) from April through October. Among these, the morning forecasts reflect the most up-to-date observation data, making them relatively more accurate.

The “AlrimTalk Service,” which allows citizens to conveniently receive notification services, can be subscribed to via the Institute's website (busan.go.kr/ihe > 열린마당 > 대기오염예보 알림서비스) or by phone (☎ 051-309-2759).

○ The “AlrimTalk Service” offers not only air pollution forecasts but also heatwave alerts and citizen behavioral guidelines. Currently, around 5,500 individuals and approximately 5,100 media and public institution representatives are subscribed to the service.

Lee Yong-joo, Director of the Busan Institute of Health and Environment, stated, “We have expanded the forecast service to strengthen our response to high concentrations of air pollution,” and added, “We will continue to enhance both the accessibility and accuracy of air quality information to take the lead in protecting public health.”