Survey of the Airborne Pollens in Seoul, Korea

ABSTRACT

A daily count of air borne pollen was done within the city limits of Seoul, Korea for a period of two years (1984-1985) using Durham's Gravity Sampling Device. Two major pollen seasons, March through May, and the month of September, were easily distinguishable. The concentration of the different types of pollen as well as all of the pollens combined varied similarly both years to a significant degree. The pollen types found in the greatest numbers were Alnus (March), Populus (April), Quercus (April-May), Pinus(May), grasses (September), and weeds (September). The main weed pollens detected in September, sagebrush, ragweed and Japanese hop would also be considered to be important allergenic pollens of respiratory allergy in Korea. The results of the survey are discussed in the light of especially relevant published literature.