South Korean ecosystems are increasingly exposed to elevated levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) originating from agricultural activities, fossil fuel combustion, and industrial emissions, which pose risks to soil health and ecosystem stability. This study investigated contamination levels and spatial distribution patterns of PTEs in South Korean topsoil. We analyzed 12 PTEs in 329 agricultural and 430 forest sites. Contamination exceedances were assessed using the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), degree of contamination (Cd), and pollution load index (PLI). The Igeo values for Al, Fe, Ti, and V were below one, indicating low accumulation, whereas Ni and As showed higher levels, with As reaching Class 5. Most samples fell within Igeo Classes 0–1, although significant accumulations of Cr, Zn, As, and Pb were observed in higher classes. Both Cd and PLI showed enrichment relative to the background levels, with forest soils showing greater enrichment, particularly for Cu, As, and Pb. Notably, forest soils had more samples in the highest contamination category (Cf ≥ 6). The spatial patterns of Igeo revealed localized contamination, and Al, Fe, and Ti exhibited consistent spatial trends across the different regions. The Cd and PLI maps showed regional variability. This study provides critical insights into the assessment of soil contamination and sustainable land management in South Korea.
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