Anseong Farmers Protest Yongin Semiconductor Cluster Discharge; Gyeonggi Orders Strict Controls

Anseong city and its farmers are fiercely opposing Yongin city's plan to discharge industrial water from its new semiconductor cluster. The planned discharge of 58,000 cubic meters of industrial water into local rivers on August 14th has sparked widespread concern. Farmers, in particular, fear that the water, potentially containing chemicals like hydrofluoric acid and sulfuric acid used in semiconductor manufacturing, will contaminate the Gosam Reservoir, a vital source of agricultural water. They also worry that the "semiconductor wastewater reservoir" label could damage Anseong's reputation for agricultural products and its eco-friendly image.

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Semiconductor manufacturing uses about 140 types of chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid and sulfuric acid. Long-term discharge raises concerns about ecosystem changes and water pollution.

A large-scale protest involving tractors and over 500 participants, including farmers and local civic groups, was held on August 3rd, demanding the cancellation of the direct discharge plan into Gosam Reservoir. The Anseong city government officially requested a postponement, citing incomplete river maintenance projects and a lack of concrete measures to ensure safety, prevent agricultural damage, and establish a response system for potential harm.

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If the perception of 'semiconductor wastewater reservoir' spreads, the brand value of Anseong's agricultural and livestock products and its eco-friendly image will be significantly damaged.

Responding to the escalating conflict, Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae intervened by ordering Yongin city to minimize the discharge volume and conduct rigorous environmental impact assessments. During a strategy meeting on August 7th, Choo pointed to international companies like Intel and TSMC investing in zero- or minimal-discharge technologies in their U.S. plants. She suggested that domestic companies might be neglecting their wastewater reduction efforts by relying on public water supply plans. Governor Choo stressed that discharge should not occur until the ecological buffer zone, agreed upon in a 2021 cooperation plan, is completed. She emphasized the need for transparency and resident involvement, stating that residents would not be convinced without substantial efforts to minimize discharge and strengthen environmental standards.

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Companies should fulfill their environmental responsibilities, and Gyeonggi Province will respond strictly.