Korea and other countries have made various efforts to preserve soil. During the past several decades, Korea has implemented various policies on soil conservation practices; however, those policies have often lacked consideration of human and ecosystem risk management. while other countries have practiced various policies closely related to risk-based management for contaminated sites. Therefore, there is a great need for a paradigm shift of policy to better manage contaminated sites in risk-based strategies, while applying different management plans for soil and groundwater. In addition, the new policies should be administered with provision to improve soil health and related functions in ecosystem. This study has reviewed the trend in relevant policies in Korea and foreign countries to suggest the future policy directions for contaminated site management in Korea. For better management of contaminated sites, coherent policy that could complement the law, system, and relevant technology is required.

Keywords: Risk-based;Contaminated site management;Policy;Technology development;