Wintertime sources and distribution of airborne lead in Korea

The geographical distribution patterns of atmospheric lead (Pb) were investigated using the data sets acquired from three locations in Korea during the wintertime period (December 2002). As these sites were selected to represent different levels of anthropogenic activities in Korea, Pb concentrations of each site were found in the highly variable range of: 27.6±26.3 (8.42–96.7: Jeju), 128±60.9 (35–238: Busan), and 200±97.2 ng m−3 (38.7–401: Seoul). By comparing our Pb levels with those measured previously from other locations in Korea and around the world, we attempted to diagnose the general status of Pb pollution on the Korean peninsula. It was found that our Pb values in Seoul are quite compatible with those studied previously in many urban areas in Korea, while notably higher than those of urbanized regions in Europe and USA. The major processes responsible for controlling Pb levels in each area were also investigated using a series of statistical analysis. The results of the correlation analysis between Pb and other elements indicated the importance of either crustal (Jeju and Seoul) or vehicular source processes (in Seoul). The results of principle component analysis further suggested the possibly significant role of incineration (in the case of Seoul). The overall results of our study suggest differences in Pb concentration levels at different sites of the Korean peninsula in a tight relation with local or regional anthropogenic activities.