Request for Thorough Safety Management Following Recent Battery-Related Laboratory Incidents

The following battery-related accidents have recently occurred at Korea University and other universities:

A. Korea University

1. July 22, 2025 (Tue), approximately 4:54 PM
   A laboratory accident occurred in a research lab at the Creative Hall when smoke was generated due to overcharging of a drone battery during charging.
2. August 12, 2025 (Tue), approximately 3:00 PM
   A laboratory accident occurred in a research lab at the Jeong Woon-Oh IT Education Building when a lithium-ion battery exploded during removal for an experiment on mobile phone power and temperature management techniques.

B. Other University (Seoul National University)

1. August 12, 2025 (Tue), approximately 10:00 AM
   A laboratory accident occurred when a lithium-ion battery being charged for a toy racing car experiment exploded, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 40 students and researchers from the building.

As there are many laboratories on campus where battery-related accidents may occur, the following safety guidelines are provided to prevent similar incidents. All laboratories are requested to immediately inspect and implement these measures and exercise special caution to prevent safety accidents.

Safety Guidelines

a. Use only products that have received KC Certification and certification from the Korea Testing Laboratory (KTL) to prevent overheating and explosion risks.

b. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and safety goggles, to prevent exposure to hazardous substances and electrical hazards.

c. Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity.

d. Do not leave batteries unattended while charging, and avoid prolonged charging.

e. Immediately stop all research activities if a battery shows signs of swelling, deformation, or damage.

f. In the event of a campus safety accident or safety-related complaint, report it to the Comprehensive Situation Room at 02-3290-1919.

In emergency situations such as a fire, call emergency services directly (119 for fire/emergency, 112 for police).