Local Collaboration for Environmental Action... Korea Racing Authority Changwon Branch Revives Rivers with 'EM Soil Balls'
by Jo Chunghyeon
Published 20 Apr.2026 12:56(KST)
600 Soil Balls Created by Five Organizations
To Be Placed in Rivers After Fermentation for Water Quality Improvement
The Changwon Branch of the Korea Racing Authority (headed by Bae Ki-han) held an 'EM Soil Ball' making event at the branch on April 16 as part of the "Send Soil Balls to the River" campaign aimed at creating a healthy river environment.
The event brought together about 30 members from five organizations, including the Korea Racing Authority Changwon Branch, Gyeongnam Hanuri, Korea Workers' Compensation & Welfare Service Changwon Hospital, and the Keunultari Volunteer Group, who joined forces to make soil balls for river purification.
EM Soil Balls are made by mixing an Effective Microorganisms (EM) solution with loess. When these balls are introduced into polluted rivers, the microorganisms are gradually released, helping to improve water quality and restore the ecological environment.
A total of 600 soil balls were made during the event. After undergoing a fermentation process of about two weeks, they will be placed in nearby rivers to support water purification activities.
Bae Ki-han, Head of the Changwon Branch of the Korea Racing Authority, said, "We decided to take part in this event because we believe that soil balls can contribute to river purification as public interest in environmental issues grows," adding, "As this is a meaningful activity involving local public institutions and civic groups, I hope that efforts to protect the environment will continue in the future."
Since its opening in 2005, the Changwon Branch of the Korea Racing Authority has continued various social contribution activities using horse racing profits. Recently, it has also expanded its efforts to promote coexistence and environmental improvement in the local community by strengthening cooperation with related local organizations.
Korea Racing Authority Changwon Branch held an 'EM Soil Ball' making event and is posing for a commemorative photo.
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