Jeju Records Nation’s Lowest Ultra-Fine Dust Level... 43% Decrease in 10 Years Reaffirms 'Pristine Jeju'
by Park Changwon
Published 27 Apr.2026 11:29(KST)
Annual Average of 13㎍/㎥... Lowest Among 17 Provinces and Cities
Over 40% Air Quality Improvement Compared to 2015
Success Attributed to Expansion of Electric Vehicles and Early Retirement of Old Diesel Cars
The Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Institute of Health and Environment analyzed air quality for 2025 and found that the annual average concentration of ultra-fine dust (PM-2.5) in the Jeju area was 13㎍/㎥, the lowest among the 17 cities and provinces nationwide. This marks an improvement of more than 40% compared to 2015, when official measurements began, thereby reaffirming Jeju's status as an area of pristine air quality.
Under clear blue skies, Hallasan Mountain is clearly visible as the ultra-fine dust concentration in the Jeju area records the lowest nationwide, maintaining clean air quality. Photo by Changwon Park
원본보기 아이콘According to an analysis by the Institute of Health and Environment of data from 12 atmospheric monitoring stations in the province, the concentration of ultra-fine dust in Jeju for 2025 was recorded at 13㎍/㎥, which is lower than the environmental standard of 15㎍/㎥. This is the lowest level nationwide, and compared to a decade ago in 2015 (23㎍/㎥), the concentration has decreased by approximately 43%, indicating a significant improvement in air quality.
This improvement is attributed not only to Jeju’s natural conditions but also to the province’s robust fine dust reduction policies, such as supporting early retirement of old diesel vehicles and expanding the use of electric vehicles, which have yielded tangible results. The institute is currently conducting real-time monitoring of air quality in the province, utilizing this data to issue alerts and reduction measures as needed.
Oh Soonmi, Director of the Institute of Health and Environment, stated, "We have confirmed that the ultra-fine dust level in Jeju is the lowest in the country and is being well managed," adding, "We will continue to closely monitor high concentrations of external pollutants such as yellow dust, and do our utmost to provide information and respond to protect the health of Jeju residents."
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