Kiera Jefferson
Daegu, South Korea, is a heavily polluted city. In 2019, South Korea was ranked 26th out of 98 countries for poor air quality, with a US AQI of 78, deemed 'Moderate'. Daegu's air quality is impacted by pollutants from China, as well as its own heavy reliance on coal-fired power stations and diesel fumes from vehicles and generators. Daegu's air pollution levels can be monitored in real-time using online tools and apps, which provide data on the levels of PM2.5, PM10, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and carbon monoxide in the air.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air Quality Index Score | 59 |
| Hwawon Air Quality Index Score | 94 |
| Hyeonpung Air Quality Index Score | 94 |
| Daegu Air Quality Index Score | 69 |
| World Ranking in Air Pollution (2024) | 59/138 |
| World Ranking in Air Pollution (2019) | 26/98 |
| Annual Average Air Quality (2019) | Moderate (78 US AQI) |
| PM2.5 Concentration | 3.4 times the WHO guideline value |
| PM2.5 Level (2019) | Twice the recommended level |
| Percentage of Pollutants from China (good days) | 30-50% |
| Percentage of Pollutants from China (bad days) | 60-80% |
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What You'll Learn
Real-time air pollution map
Daegu, South Korea, has a real-time air pollution map that provides valuable insights into the city's air quality. This map is part of a broader initiative that covers over 100 countries and offers a detailed analysis of various air pollutants.
The real-time air pollution map for Daegu provides specific data on multiple air quality metrics. These include PM2.5 (fine particulate matter), PM10 (respirable particulate matter), NO2 (nitrogen dioxide), SO2 (sulfur dioxide), CO (carbon monoxide), and O3 (ozone). Each of these pollutants has a corresponding Air Quality Index (AQI) value, indicating the level of pollution at a given time. For example, on January 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM CST, Daegu's overall air quality index was 46, with individual AQI values for each pollutant ranging from 4 to 32.
The map also identifies specific areas within Daegu that are particularly affected by air pollution. For instance, the Siji-dong, Igok-dong, and Jincheon-dong neighbourhoods of Daegu have been highlighted as having higher levels of air pollution, with AQI values ranging from 53 to 55.
To make the real-time air pollution map accessible to the public, several tools and plugins are available. These include the Daegu Air Quality plugin for web browsers like Chrome and Firefox, as well as widgets for Windows Mobile 8 and 8.1, Symbian devices, and Windows Desktop. The GAIA air quality monitor, which requires a simple setup with a WIFI access point and a USB power supply, also contributes real-time data to the map.
By offering a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of Daegu's air quality, the real-time air pollution map serves as a valuable resource for citizens, researchers, and policymakers alike. It enables individuals to make informed decisions about their health and daily activities, while also providing critical data for addressing and mitigating air pollution issues in the city.
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Air quality monitoring stations
Daegu, South Korea, has been described as having an air pollution problem. The city's overall air quality index is 46, with a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) AQI of 46 and a PM10 (respirable particulate matter) AQI of 20. Daegu's air quality is also measured in terms of nitrogen dioxide (AQI of 12), sulfur dioxide (AQI of 4), ozone (AQI of 32), and carbon monoxide (AQI of 7).
The GAIA air quality monitors offer a comprehensive package that includes a 10-meter waterproof power cable, mounting equipment, and an optional solar panel. This equipment enables the continuous measurement of various air pollutants, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone.
By utilising these air quality monitoring stations, Daegu's residents can access real-time data on the city's air pollution levels. This information can be instantly accessed through maps and APIs, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Additionally, the availability of such data highlights the ongoing efforts to address air pollution and improve the overall air quality in Daegu and surrounding areas.
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Air pollution health risks
Air pollution is defined as the presence of one or more contaminants in the atmosphere, such as dust, fumes, gases, mist, odour, smoke or vapour, in quantities and durations that can be harmful to human health. The main pathway of exposure from air pollution is through the respiratory tract, but almost every organ in the body can be impacted. Some pollutants are small enough to penetrate the bloodstream via the lungs and circulate throughout the entire body, leading to systemic inflammation and carcinogenicity.
The specific health risks associated with air pollution depend on the types and concentrations of pollutants in the air. Some of the most concerning pollutants for public health include particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). Short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter can lead to reduced lung function, respiratory infections, and aggravated asthma. Long-term exposure increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases such as stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cancer. Fine particulate matter can impair blood vessel function and speed up the calcification of arteries. Exposure to air pollution has also been linked to an increased risk of mortality, with one study finding that exposure to PM2.5 from coal power plants doubled the mortality risk.
Children are especially vulnerable to the health impacts of air pollution. Higher levels of air pollution increase short-term respiratory infections, leading to more school absences. Children who play outdoor sports and live in high-ozone communities or near busy roads are more likely to develop asthma. Living in communities with higher pollution levels can cause lung damage, and exposure to PM2.5 at a young age may alter the size of a child's developing brain, increasing the risk of cognitive and emotional problems later in life. There is also evidence that air pollution may affect neurological development in children and increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight, pre-term birth, and maternal and fetal illness and death.
Other factors that influence an individual's level of risk from air pollution include exposure, susceptibility, and access to healthcare. Where someone lives, goes to school, and works can greatly impact their exposure to air pollution. In general, higher exposure leads to greater risk. Pregnant women and their fetuses, children, older adults, and people living with chronic conditions, especially heart and lung disease, are more susceptible to the health impacts of air pollution. Additionally, psychosocial stressors such as poverty, racial/ethnic discrimination, and residency status can amplify the harmful effects of air pollution. Research has shown that people of colour are more likely to be exposed to air pollution and suffer more significant health consequences.
Daegu, South Korea, has an air pollution index rating of 59, which is considered "moderate". While this rating is not severe, it still indicates the presence of harmful pollutants in the air, which can pose health risks to vulnerable individuals.
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Daegu's air quality forecast
Daegu, South Korea, is a moderately polluted city. Its air quality index (AQI) is often in the 'Moderate' to 'Unhealthy for sensitive groups' range, which can be harmful to the respiratory health of vulnerable individuals. Daegu's air pollution levels can be monitored in real-time through various online platforms, such as IQAir and air quality forecast websites. These sources provide visual maps and data on the levels of pollutants in the city.
The main pollutants in Daegu's air include particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). These pollutants can have negative effects on human health, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to an increased risk of developing asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and possibly cancer.
The sources of air pollution in Daegu are diverse. A significant portion, between 30% to 50% on good days and up to 80% on bad days, of the PM2.5 pollutant in South Korea, including Daegu, originates from neighbouring China. This is due to the prevailing winds blowing in pollutants from China's industrial activities and desert dust from its western regions. During winter, slower air currents fail to disperse these pollutants, leading to higher pollution levels in Daegu.
Additionally, South Korea's heavy reliance on coal-fired power stations and diesel-powered vehicles and generators also contribute to Daegu's air pollution. The country's rapid economic development has led to an increased demand for energy, resulting in the burning of large quantities of coal. This significantly impacts the air quality in Daegu, as approximately 50% of the PM2.5 particulates in the city's air are attributed to these emissions.
To address the issue of air pollution, Daegu and the wider South Korean region have implemented emergency measures to reduce fine dust concentrations. For instance, in 2019, during the spring, 12 emergency measures were imposed in the metropolitan area for seven consecutive days to combat the high levels of fine dust. While these efforts are made to improve air quality, it is essential for residents and visitors in Daegu to stay informed about the air quality forecasts and take necessary precautions to protect their health.
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South Korea's air pollution sources
South Korea's air pollution problem has multiple sources, with fossil fuel combustion being the largest contributor. South Korea has very few natural resources and imports almost all of its energy sources. Oil accounts for 38% of the primary energy supply, coal 29%, and gas 15%. The country's growing economy and expanding industries have led to an increased demand for energy, with a heavy reliance on fossil fuels. This has resulted in a rise in emissions from power plants, vehicles, and factories.
The number of vehicles on South Korean roads is increasing rapidly, particularly in large cities, contributing to the air pollution problem. The use of diesel, a dirty fuel, in delivery vehicles and generators is a significant source of pollution. South Korea's air pollution is also impacted by external factors, with an estimated 30-50% of PM2.5 pollutants originating from China, especially during the winter months when air currents are slower. Dust blown in from China's western deserts and Inner Mongolia, as well as emissions from the city of Shanghai, contribute to the poor air quality in South Korea.
To address the air pollution issue, the Korean Ministry of Environment has taken several measures. They have regulated 11 air pollutants and 32 other hazardous substances. Additionally, South Korea plans to close 10 out of its 61 coal power plants by 2025. The government has also embraced the concept of "Green Growth," aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the unnecessary usage of non-renewable energy sources. Despite these efforts, air pollution remains a significant concern, with 97% of respondents in a 2018 survey reporting physical or psychological pain due to the poor air quality.
Daegu, a city in South Korea, has also been impacted by the country's air pollution issues. While I couldn't find specific information on the current pollution levels in Daegu, the city experiences poor air quality, as indicated by its presence on air pollution maps and the availability of real-time air quality indices and plugins. These tools allow residents to monitor the air pollution levels in their city and take necessary precautions to protect their health.
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Frequently asked questions
Daegu's air quality is worse than South Korea's capital, Seoul, which had a Good air quality rating and a US AQI figure of 41 in 2020. Daegu's US AQI figure was 59.
A large percentage of the pollutants in South Korea are blown in by the wind from China. On good days, between 30 and 50 per cent of PM2.5 pollutant in South Korea originates from China, and on bad days, this can reach 60 to 80 per cent. South Korea's heavy reliance on coal-fired power stations and diesel fumes from vehicles and generators also contributes to air pollution.
Prolonged exposure to air pollution may lead to the faster ageing of lung tissue, which can lead to a loss in capacity and functionality. Diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and possibly cancer are more prevalent in heavily polluted cities.
The current air quality in Daegu is 69 on the AQI scale.
