Jeonbuk Enhances Water Quality Management for Yongdam Lake Amid Climate Concerns

Jeonbuk Province is stepping up efforts to manage the water quality of Yongdam Lake, a critical water source for the region, as climate change intensifies with recurring heatwaves and heavy downpours. The province announced on Thursday its comprehensive plan to improve the water quality for residents' drinking water.

The initiative focuses on strengthening the management of pollution sources across household, livestock, and agricultural sectors. Additionally, the province aims to establish a robust system to combat the growing threat of algal blooms. Yongdam Lake serves as a primary water source for five cities and counties in Jeonbuk, including Jeonju, Gunsan, and Iksan, supplying water for domestic and industrial use.

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We will thoroughly manage the implementation of the city and county action plans so that the Yongdam Lake water quality improvement measures can lead to tangible results in the field.

Officials from Jeonbuk Province, the Jeonbuk Regional Environmental Agency, Jinan, Muju, and Jangsu counties, the Korea Water Resources Corporation, and the Jeonbuk Research Institute convened for the first Yongdam Lake Water Quality Preservation Council meeting of 2026. They discussed the implementation plan for the 'Yongdam Lake Water Quality Improvement Measures (2026-2030)' and the specific strategies each agency will undertake.

The overarching goal is to consistently maintain Yongdam Lake's water quality at Ia grade, defined as having total organic carbon (TOC) below 2 mg/L, by 2030. Key strategies include enhancing the management of pollution entering the lake, stabilizing water quality, and preventing water-related accidents. This involves stricter inspections of private sewage treatment facilities and improved management of public sewage treatment plants, livestock waste facilities, and compost piles to minimize pollutant runoff during rainfall. Monitoring of water quality in the lake and its main tributaries will be intensified, with increased surveillance in areas prone to algal blooms, especially during the summer months.

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We will do our best to secure clean water sources that residents can trust.