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By Kim Hyun-bin
The National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) released data revealing that up to 69 percent of fine dust could come from China.
According to the findings, in 2015 an average 45 percent of fine dust in Korea originated from China, but on days with high concentrations up to 69 percent could have come from Asia's largest economy.
This mark the first time a numerical analysis has been made on Chinese fine dust concentration by region.
The reports states depending on the seasonal winds fine dust arrives from different parts of eastern China.
The highest level of fine dust came during the summer accounting for 53 percent of Korea's fine dust concentration.
However, the level of fine dust tends to weaken during winter and spring, falling to 31 and 25 percent respectively.
Considering increasing industrialization in the eastern part of China in recent years, experts believe the fine dust concentration has increased this year.
"By conducting the research we realized it's urgent to cooperate with the four eastern regions of China," an official from NIER said. "If we simultaneously manage the fine dust produced in Korea and China, we will be able to reduce fine dust concentration."
Kim Ho, professor of health at Seoul National University, said, "Currently there is an increase of young Chinese fine dust researchers. If we request mutual cooperation in reducing fine dust there could be great progress."
The report states on average 59 percent of fine dust has come from abroad and 41 percent is produced locally. Out of 59 percent China is responsible for 45 percent. The estimates are similar to the Ministry of Environment's previous report which stated 30 percent to 50 percent was from abroad on average and on high-concentration days it could reach 60 percent to 80 percent.
The NIER also conducted a fine dust concentration study in different Korean provinces.
South Chungcheong Province had the highest production of fine dust accounting for 19.9 percent followed by South Gyeongsang Province at 11.9 percent, South Jeolla Province at 11.7 percent, the southern part of Gyeonggi at 11.1 percent and South Gyeongsang Province at 8.4 percent.
Experts say fine dust is harmful to healthy people but it's especially critical to fetuses.
"According to the report by the Asan Medical Center fine dust can affect an embryo in the mother's womb when exposed and it's highly correlated to causing asthma in young children," said Hong Su-jong, professor of pediatric at Asan Medical Center."
