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Tag: Gangwon snow

  • [Korean News] South Korea Braces for Heaviest Snowfall of the Season Amid Arctic Blast

    As of January 9, 2026, a powerful arctic blast with temperatures reaching -40°C in the upper atmosphere is sweeping across the Korean Peninsula, triggering the heaviest snowfall of the winter season.

    According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the snow began late Friday night and is expected to expand nationwide throughout Saturday, January 10. Significant accumulation is forecast, with inland areas of Gangwon and Jeolla provinces expecting over 15cm, while the Seoul metropolitan area may see up to 8cm of snow.

    This intense snowfall is caused by the frigid arctic air interacting with the relatively warmer waters of the West Sea, leading to the rapid development of thick snow clouds.

    Travelers should be prepared for heavy snow during the daytime on Saturday, which may be accompanied by thunder, lightning, and strong gusts in some regions. Because the snow is anticipated to accumulate very quickly within a short window, regional variations in depth will be significant, potentially impacting transportation and outdoor activities across the country.

    Once the snow subsides, a severe cold wave is projected to return starting Sunday, January 11.

    While Saturday’s morning temperatures remained relatively mild, they are expected to plummet to between -15°C and -2°C as a continental high-pressure system expands. Interior regions are likely to experience a deep freeze around -10°C, making for a bitterly cold start to the week.

    For those currently traveling in Korea, it is highly recommended to check real-time weather updates and prepare for extreme sub-zero temperatures.

  • Korea Turns Chilly: Early Winter Weather Arrives Ahead of Schedule

    This week, South Korea is expected to experience an early winter chill as a result of a cold continental high-pressure system.

    According to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), morning temperatures on the 20th will drop to between 2°C and 15°C, with a chance of first snow in the highlands of northern Gangwon Province. On the morning of the 21st, the temperature may dip to 1°C, and the wind chill in northern Gyeonggi could fall close to freezing. Daytime highs will range from 12°C to 22°C, but strong northwesterly winds will make it feel much colder.

    The cold weather is expected to persist through midweek.

    Frost and thin ice may form in inland areas during early mornings, raising concerns about crop damage. Starting from the weekend (around the 23rd), morning temperatures are expected to rebound slightly to between 6°C and 15°C.

    Meanwhile, rain is expected mainly in eastern Gangwon Province, with 10–50 mm forecast between the 20th and 21st, and 5–30 mm in parts of northern Gyeongbuk and surrounding mountain areas. In high-altitude regions above 1,200 meters, about 1 cm of snow may accumulate. Busan, Ulsan, and Jeju coastal areas will see strong winds and high waves, and additional rainfall is forecast for October 22 and 23–24 along the east coast.

    Overall, the country will see mostly clear or partly cloudy skies this week, but visitors to Korea are advised to dress warmly and take care of their health as temperatures drop sharply.