Objective A cross-examination of heavy metal contamination in the United States and South Korea will reveal similarities and differences in the current condition of pollution and exposure. For the purposes of this manuscript, the overview will be limited to cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and arsenic (Ar). Method A comprehensive review of current literature heavy metal contamination from both the United States and South Korea will be presented. A comparison and contrast model will reflect on similarities and differences between the two countries, reflecting on how a developed and a developing country respond to the current condition of heavy metal contamination and exposure. Results The United States is a developed nation that experiences a consistent level of heavy metal contamination. By way of government regulation, there is a plan to decrease the exposure to heavy metals.  In South Korea, a developing nation, there is a marked increase in heavy metal contamination in the ambient environment, ground water and soil as well as exposure to heavy metals. Attempts to curb this increase, government regulation are being put into effect. Discussion Although developing countries project trends of increased levels of heavy metal exposure due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and increased population size in these high risk areas, this reveals a strong correlation between increasing pollution and the transitioning of a developing country into a more developed one.