Seoul Shivers: Winter's Icy Grip Arrives Early

Seoul Shivers: First Sub-Zero Temperatures of the Season Arrive

Seoulites woke to a bracing start this Tuesday, as the city experienced its first sub-zero temperatures of the season. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) confirmed the mercury dipped below freezing late Monday night, plunging to a chilly -2 degrees Celsius by early Tuesday morning. Coupled with strong winds, the sensible temperature felt even colder, plummeting to a bone-chilling -5.9 degrees Celsius.

Seoul Shivers: Winter's Icy Grip Arrives Early

The sudden cold snap, attributed to a surge of frigid air sweeping down from the north, has sent temperatures tumbling across the Korean peninsula. The KMA reported that morning lows were between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius lower nationwide compared to previous days.

While Seoul experienced its first taste

While Seoul experienced its first taste of winter, other regions fared even worse. Hyangno Peak in Goseong, Gangwon Province, recorded a teeth-chattering -12.1 degrees Celsius. Nearby areas like Yeoncheon in Gyeonggi Province also suffered, with temperatures plummeting to -8.2 degrees Celsius. The chill extended into the central region, with Chungju in North Chungcheong Province registering a frosty -5.7 degrees Celsius.

The severity of the cold has prompted the issuance of cold wave alerts for Gangwon, North Chungcheong, and parts of the Gyeongsang provinces, urging residents to take precautions against the potentially hazardous conditions.

Despite the icy start, the KMA forecasts a slight improvement throughout the day, with daily highs expected to range between 4 and 11 degrees Celsius nationwide. However, the agency warns that strong winds, with instantaneous speeds reaching around 55 kilometers per hour, will persist across much of the country, making it feel significantly colder.

Looking ahead, the KMA predicts continued chilly conditions and advises residents to dress warmly and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the cold. They also cautioned that occasional rain or snow is expected on Jeju Island and along the western coasts of South Chungcheong and Jeolla provinces. With winter officially knocking on the door, Koreans are bracing themselves for a season of frigid temperatures and icy winds.