The present status of pesticide residue problems in Korea is described, including monitoring activities, residue levels in agricultural products and safe use of pesticides. As cultural practices in agriculture have been intensively developed during the last two decades, the use of pesticides is becoming essential for securing a reliable output in agricultural production. Most pesticides used in Korea belong to the less persistent types, even though a few chemicals including organochlorinated compounds are still being consumed in smaller amounts.
Results of monitoring surveys on pesticide residues in agricultural products, soil and irrigation water which have been conducted by the government institutions since 1968, show quite low or trace levels as compared to the MRLs set up by FAO/WHO.
A close cooperation among government organizations, pesticide manufacturers and farmers is being promoted so as to utilize the pesticides effectively and properly.