South Korea is bracing for a dynamic spell of winter weather as rain and snow sweep across the nation, bringing with them a mix of safety warnings, temperature swings, and the ever-present challenges of winter travel. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), the latest forecasts indicate that from the early hours of February 24, 2026, Jeju Island will be the first to see rain, with precipitation expanding rapidly to engulf most of the country by morning. For many, this means umbrellas and winter boots will be essential companions for the day ahead.
The weather pattern is being driven by a pressure trough moving over the peninsula, with the KMA noting that the Seoul metropolitan area, including Incheon and Suwon, will wake up to milder temperatures than usual for late February. Morning lows are expected to hover just above freezing—Seoul at 2°C, Incheon at 1°C, and Suwon also at 2°C—offering a brief respite from the harsher cold experienced in previous days. By afternoon, highs could reach 7°C in Seoul and 6°C in Incheon, making for a relatively mild winter day, as reported by The Fair News.
But don’t let the gentler temperatures fool you—this is still winter, and with the warmth comes a different set of hazards. As the day progresses, skies will turn increasingly cloudy, and from late morning, rain is forecast to begin along the west coast before spreading across the entire metropolitan region. While the expected rainfall is modest—under 5 mm for most areas—colder northern and mountainous parts of Gyeonggi Province are likely to see sleet or snow, with accumulations reaching around 1 cm. The precipitation, whether rain or snow, is predicted to taper off by nightfall, but not before it leaves roads slick and visibility reduced.
The KMA has issued a suite of warnings to keep the public on alert. Dryness advisories remain in effect for Seoul, northern Gyeonggi inland, the mountains and east coast of Gangwon, eastern Jeonnam, much of Gyeongsang, and parts of Chungbuk. These dry conditions, combined with strong winds—especially in the south and mountainous regions—have officials particularly concerned about the risk of wildfires. As Lecturer News explains, wind gusts could reach up to 55 km/h in southern regions and even 70 km/h in mountainous areas, with Jeju Island potentially facing gusts above 70 km/h and mountain peaks experiencing even stronger bursts. The KMA is considering issuing strong wind advisories for Jeju, urging residents to secure loose objects and prepare for possible power outages or property damage.
"Today, most regions nationwide will see rain or snow, with heavy snow accumulating especially in the inland areas of Gyeongsang," the KMA stated in its morning update. Indeed, the heaviest snow is expected in southwestern Gyeongbuk and western inland Gyeongnam, where accumulations could range from 3 to 8 cm, and in some spots, even exceed 10 cm. Seoul and northern Gyeonggi, by contrast, are forecast to receive less than 1 cm of snow, while the southern part of Gyeonggi may see around 1 cm.
With precipitation comes another set of challenges: icy roads and poor visibility. The KMA has repeatedly emphasized that in areas where rain or snow is falling, roads may quickly become slippery, especially as freezing rain is expected in some inland regions. This phenomenon occurs when liquid rain falls onto surfaces at or below freezing, instantly forming a dangerous layer of ice. Drivers are being urged to reduce speed, maintain safe distances, and prepare for sudden changes in road conditions. Pedestrians, too, are advised to tread carefully, particularly on side streets, slopes, and shaded areas where ice may linger.
Fire safety is another top concern. The ongoing dryness, exacerbated by gusty winds, means that even a small spark could quickly escalate into a large blaze. Authorities are calling on the public to avoid burning leaves or trash, exercise caution with heaters and open flames during outdoor activities, and ensure that all flammable materials are properly stored. "With strong winds and dry conditions, even a small fire can spread rapidly," warned the KMA, echoing guidance from Lecturer News. Residents in forest-adjacent areas are being asked to be especially vigilant, and hikers are reminded to avoid carrying flammable items.
Looking ahead, the weather is set to shift again. By February 25, central regions (excluding eastern Gangwon) can expect clearer skies, while southern and eastern regions, including Jeju, will remain mostly cloudy. Morning lows will dip as low as -6°C in some areas but could reach up to 7°C elsewhere, with daytime highs climbing to between 9°C and 16°C. The KMA notes that as daytime temperatures rise, ice on rivers, lakes, and reservoirs may begin to melt, increasing the risk of accidents from thin ice. There are also warnings about potential ground subsidence and landslides as previously frozen soil thaws.
On February 26 and 27, the pattern continues: Gangwon, Gyeongsang, and Jeju remain cloudy, while the rest of the country enjoys clearer conditions, at least until clouds return later in the day. By the weekend, high pressure is expected to bring mostly sunny weather to much of Korea, though clouds will linger in eastern and southern coastal areas. Temperatures will remain in a comfortable range, with morning lows between -4°C and 9°C and daytime highs from 10°C to 17°C, according to bnt News.
Maritime conditions are also a concern. Strong winds and high waves are forecast for the southern and eastern seas, with waves reaching up to 4 meters in some areas. The KMA has issued safety warnings for ships and fishing vessels, and from February 25 through 26, high swells are expected to impact beaches along the east and south coasts, as well as Jeju. These waves could surge over breakwaters and flood coastal roads, so beachgoers and local authorities are urged to stay alert.
Despite the flurry of weather alerts, there is a silver lining: air quality is expected to remain good to moderate in most regions, thanks to the cleansing effect of the precipitation. Fine dust levels, which often spike during dry winter spells, should be kept in check for at least a few days.
In sum, South Korea’s late February weather is serving up a classic mix of rain, snow, wind, and shifting temperatures—reminding everyone that winter isn’t quite done yet. With a careful eye on the forecast and a bit of extra caution, residents can navigate this unsettled stretch safely and maybe even enjoy the fleeting beauty of a snowy morning or the freshness that follows a winter rain.