As South Korea transitions from winter to spring, the nation is experiencing a spell of unusually mild weather that brings both relief and concern. On February 12, 2026, temperatures across the country are climbing above seasonal averages, with daytime highs in most regions ranging from 7°C to 14°C, and some southern cities even edging higher, according to multiple local broadcasters including Daegu Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation, SBS Biz, and YTN. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) forecasts that this gentle warmth will persist through the upcoming weekend, coinciding with the start of the Lunar New Year holiday.
But while many are enjoying the spring-like conditions, the air tells a different story. Fine dust pollution—known locally as PM2.5—has reached 'bad' or even 'very bad' levels in most parts of the country for a second consecutive day. The haze is particularly thick in central and inland areas, including the Seoul metropolitan region, Chungnam, and Gyeongbuk, as reported by YTN and TJB. The KMA and environmental authorities have issued advisories urging residents to take precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions.
"Most regions nationwide have hazy air; Seoul and other metropolitan areas including Chungnam have issued fine dust advisories," YTN explained, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem. In Daegu and Gyeongbuk, PM2.5 concentrations have exceeded 50 micrograms per cubic meter, a level classified as 'bad' and requiring heightened public caution. Daegu Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation noted, "Masks for fine dust are recommended for respiratory health."
The origins of this pollution are twofold: residual fine dust from the previous day lingers in the stagnant air, while new domestic emissions accumulate, particularly under the influence of a high-pressure system edging eastward from Shanghai. This system has led to clear skies but also traps pollutants close to the ground, resulting in the hazy conditions observed nationwide. According to TJB, "Fine dust accumulation is due to residual dust from the previous day and domestic emissions under stagnant air conditions, leading to 'bad' air quality in the Seoul metropolitan area, Chungcheong, Gangwon Yeongseo, Jeonbuk, Daegu, and Gyeongbuk; other regions will have 'normal' levels."
There’s some hope for temporary improvement. Clean air from the West Sea is expected to reduce dust concentrations in the afternoon, but forecasters warn that foreign dust inflow later in the day will likely cause another spike in pollution, especially in the central-western regions. "Southern coastal areas' air quality will improve from midday, but additional foreign dust inflow in the late afternoon will keep central-western, Jeonbuk, and Gyeongbuk regions at 'bad' air quality levels all day," YTN reported. For those planning to travel or spend time outdoors, the advice is simple: keep a mask handy and monitor air quality updates closely.
The fine dust isn’t the only atmospheric challenge. Dense fog is blanketing many central and inland areas, with visibility dropping below 200 meters in places like Incheon, Gyeonggi, Chungcheong, Jeonbuk, Jeonnam, and parts of Gyeongbuk and western Gyeongnam, according to The Hankyoreh and TJB. This has prompted warnings for drivers and even air travelers, as the thick fog could disrupt flight schedules. "Fog may disrupt air traffic; travelers should check flight information," The Hankyoreh advised.
Morning temperatures have been chilly but not severe, with lows ranging from -7°C to 2°C nationwide. Notable morning readings include Seoul at -2°C, Daegu at -3°C, and Busan at 2°C. By midday, however, the mercury rises sharply—Seoul and Suwon reach 9°C, Daejeon and Sejong 10°C, Daegu 12°C, and Busan tops out at 14°C. These wide daily temperature swings are typical for this season, but the warmth is more pronounced than usual. "Temperatures are expected to continue rising and remain above average for the season with large daily temperature differences," Daegu Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation observed.
While the air feels like spring, the ground is telling another story. Dry weather advisories remain in effect along the East Sea coast and throughout the Gyeongsang region, where humidity levels are critically low. Strong winds in these areas further increase the risk of wildfires—a worry that’s not lost on local officials. "A dry weather warning is in effect for the East Sea coast of Gyeongbuk, and a dry caution advisory is active in all inland areas of Daegu and Gyeongbuk, requiring caution to prevent wildfires and fires," Daegu Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation emphasized. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and to report any signs of fire immediately.
Despite these environmental hazards, the gentle weather is a welcome change from the harsh cold spells that often grip Korea in February. In fact, the KMA predicts that the mild conditions will last through the Lunar New Year holiday, which begins on Monday, February 16. However, there’s a twist: some regions may see rain or even snow on the first day of the holiday, adding a dash of unpredictability to family travel plans. "On the first day of the Lunar New Year holiday, Monday February 16, 2026, some areas are expected to experience rain or snow," Daegu Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation reported.
For now, the advice from authorities and meteorologists is clear: enjoy the warmth, but don’t let your guard down. The combination of fine dust, fog, and dry winds makes for a deceptively tranquil scene. "Fine dust and fog are tangled together, making visibility very poor, so please pay special attention to traffic safety," YTN cautioned. As always, monitoring the latest weather and air quality updates is crucial, especially for vulnerable groups.
Looking ahead, the country’s weather will likely remain in this delicate balance, with spring’s promise on the horizon but environmental challenges still at hand. For millions of Koreans preparing for the holiday, it’s a reminder that nature’s gifts often come with strings attached.