Characteristics of the Chemical Components of PM_2.5 in the Dangjin Region, South Korea, and Evaluation of Emission Source Contributions During High-Concentration Events

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5; aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 µm) remains a challenging policy for industrialized coastal regions throughout East Asia. In this study, we present a multi-year chemical characterization of PM_2.5 and identify key factors contributing to extreme pollution events in Dangjin, a heavy-industry hub on Korea’s west coast. Between August 2020 and March 2024, 24-h gravimetric filters (up to n = 245; 127–280 valid analyses depending on constituent) were collected twice weekly in winter–spring and weekly in summer–autumn. Meteorological data and 48-h backward HYSPLIT trajectories guided source interpretation. The mean PM_2.5 concentration was 26.22 ± 15.29 µg/m³ (4.74–95.31 µg/m³). The mass was highest in winter (30.83 µg/m³). Secondary inorganic ions constituted 60.3% of the aerosol, with nitrate comprising 29.7%. A nitrate-to-sulfate ratio of 1.94 indicated a stronger influence from mobile NO_x emissions compared to that from coal combustion. The trajectory analysis showed north-easterly transport from Eastern China, followed by local stagnation, which promoted rapid ammonium-nitrate formation. Regional transport contributes to severe PM_2.5 episodes, with their magnitude increased by local NO_x and NH₃ emissions. Our findings suggest that effective mitigation strategies in coastal industrial corridors require coordinated control of long-range transport and domestic measures focused on vehicles and ammonia-rich industries.