To analyze the correlation between the rusty root and the antiokidative activity in ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A.Meyer) roots, the levels of antioxidative activity in various tissues of healthy and rusty roots. The superoxide dismutase activity in rusty roots (126.9 units/mg protein) was approximately 3.5 times higher than that in healthy roots. The catalase activity in rusty roots was approximately 1.6 times higher than that in healthy roots, whereas the peroxidase activity showed a slight low level in msty roots. The 1.1 diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl(DPPH) free radical scavenging activity in rusty roots was approximately 2.0 times higher than that in healthy roots. The total ascorbate content in healthy roots was 166~240 $mu extrm{g}$/g fr. wt. depending on the tissues. Interestingly, the oxidized dehydroascorbate (DHA) content occupied more than 80% in total ascorbate content. The total ascorbate content in rusty roots was a similar level with healthy roots, but the reduced ascorbate content was 3.5~7.5 times higher than that of the healthy roots. The total glutathione content of the epidermis, cortex and stele tissues in 겨sty roots was 7.3, 4.8, 1.2 times higher than the healthy tissues, respectively. The ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) showed a similar fluctuation of total glutathione content in 겨sty roots. These results indicate that the high antioxidative activity in rusty roots may involve in overcoming the oxidative stress derived from environmental stresses.