S-OIL Under the Microscope: Government Launches Joint Chemical Safety Inspection During Major Overhaul

S-OIL and the Onsan Refinery: A Powerhouse in Korea’s Energy Sector

Did you know S-OIL is one of Korea’s largest oil and chemical companies, with its Onsan refinery in Ulsan processing up to 650,000 barrels a day? S-OIL, majority-owned by Saudi Aramco, plays a crucial role in the country’s energy and petrochemical landscape. The Onsan complex isn’t just an industrial giant—it’s also a focal point for safety and environmental scrutiny, especially during scheduled overhauls that happen every 4–5 years. These overhauls, known as 'daejungbi,' are essential for maintaining equipment but are also high-risk periods for chemical accidents.

Why Major Overhauls Are a Big Deal in Korea’s Petrochemical Industry

Every 4–5 years, Korean refineries like S-OIL halt operations for a comprehensive overhaul. This is when machinery is inspected, repaired, and sometimes replaced. But here’s the catch: nearly 44% of serious chemical accidents in the last five years at hazardous material handling sites occurred during these maintenance periods. Fires, explosions, and toxic leaks are real dangers, making these overhauls tense times not just for workers, but for local communities and environmental watchdogs.

The 2025 Joint Chemical Safety Inspection: What Happened?

On June 17, 2025, the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Employment and Labor visited S-OIL’s Onsan refinery for a joint inspection. Their mission? To ensure that all chemical residues in tanks and valves were properly removed, safety procedures were clearly documented and followed, and that partner companies received adequate safety training. This wasn’t a routine check—since February, the government has been targeting the country’s six major refiners during their overhaul periods, aiming to prevent disasters before they happen.

Inside the Inspection: What Do Authorities Look For?

During these joint inspections, authorities focus on several key areas: verifying that hazardous chemicals are safely removed before work begins, ensuring leak detection systems are functional, checking that workers have and use appropriate protective gear, and confirming that all staff—including contractors—are trained in emergency procedures. The Ministry of Environment also runs on-site safety campaigns, distributing leaflets and banners to remind everyone of the rules. These efforts are designed to raise safety awareness and prevent tragic accidents.

Community Voices: How Do Koreans React to S-OIL Safety Issues?

If you browse Korean forums like DC Inside, FM Korea, or Naver, you’ll see a mix of reactions. Some users express relief that the government is taking proactive steps, saying, 'At least they’re checking before something bad happens.' Others are more skeptical, pointing to past incidents and rumors of illegal emissions. One comment on a popular blog reads, 'These inspections are just for show unless they follow up with real penalties.' There’s also frustration about recurring issues: 'How many times do we have to hear about chemical leaks at Onsan before something changes?'

Recent Controversies: Allegations of Illegal Emissions and Public Distrust

S-OIL has faced allegations of secretly releasing hazardous chemicals into the air for over a decade. These claims, which surfaced on anonymous platforms like Blind, have fueled public anxiety. Some workers allege that the company could solve these problems with better equipment, but management has been slow to respond. While S-OIL has promoted its investments in eco-friendly upgrades and pollution controls, skepticism remains. The Ministry of Environment has even conducted surprise inspections to investigate these claims, but so far, no conclusive evidence of illegal activity has been found.

Why This Matters: The Cultural Context of Industrial Safety in Korea

For international readers, it’s important to understand Korea’s unique industrial culture. Rapid economic growth has sometimes come at the expense of worker and environmental safety. High-profile disasters have made the public wary, and there’s growing demand for transparency and accountability from big corporations. Government agencies are under pressure to act decisively, not just to prevent accidents but to rebuild public trust. The S-OIL inspection reflects broader societal concerns about balancing economic development with human and environmental safety.

What’s Next? The Push for Safer, Greener Industry

The government has pledged to continue joint inspections and strengthen cooperation between agencies. There’s also a push for more rigorous enforcement of safety laws and greater investment in pollution control technologies. For S-OIL and its peers, the message is clear: safety can’t be an afterthought. As Korea’s industrial sector evolves, so too must its approach to managing risk and protecting both workers and the environment. Overseas fans and observers should watch how these changes unfold, as they offer a window into Korea’s ongoing struggle to balance growth and responsibility.