On March 13, 2025, fog disrupted cargo and passenger ship operations to and from the port of Inchon, prompting temporary suspensions. The thick fog conditions resulted in visibility restrictions, leading the Maritime Traffic Control Center to issue guidance around 4:20 PM on March 12, which was only lifted at 11:15 AM the following morning.
According to South Korea's maritime regulations, when visibility falls below 500 meters, entry and exit of vessels, excluding passenger ships, can be controlled. For passenger vessels, operations are suspended when visibility is less than 1 kilometer. On the day of the incident, visibility was reported to be particularly alarming, with conditions dropping to about 100 meters near the North Port of Inchon.
On average, the port handles around 390 cargo ships each day, making the impact of such weather significant on commercial shipping activities. An official from the Maritime Traffic Control Center stated, “Visibility was very poor, around 100m near North Port,” emphasizing the seriousness of the visibility issues causing operational disruptions.
By 11:30 AM on March 13, operations for passenger vessels were also affected, with five ships on three routes—including Baengnyeongdo and Gulyupdo—being suspended. Out of 14 routes running from the port, the remaining ships' operational status was to be determined based on the prevailing weather conditions.
Notably, 11 ships across 10 routes would remain on standby as conditions fluctuated. The Coast Guard, recognizing the combination of increased tourist activity and rising tide levels, warned of heightened risk for accidents due to the forthcoming high tides. From March 13 until March 20, the Coast Guard announced it would maintain strict vigilance, intensifying patrols during high tide hours to mitigate any potential accidents.
With conditions improving, officials are cautiously optimistic about regaining normal operations, but they remain committed to ensuring the safety of both sea vessels and passengers. Any slight changes in weather will continue to dictate the operations at the port, demonstrating the delicate balance between natural elements and maritime safety.
Travelers are advised to keep updated on route statuses and remain patient amid the challenging conditions presented by nature. The unusual fog not only impacts ship schedules but also creates challenges for surface travel as well, as thick fog forced vehicles to operate at slower speeds, adding to the overall atmosphere of caution throughout the region.
Wolmido and Yeongjongdo, also affected by the fog, recorded fine dust levels of 27 µg/m³ and 57 µg/m³ respectively, both classified as normal, yet it reflects the combined pressures of environmental factors at play.
Authorities reiterate their commitment to passenger safety, ensuring clear communication about the risks associated with weather disruptions, especially during high tourist seasons. Maritime traffic control measures remain flexible, adapting swiftly to the changing conditions to minimize disruptions as much as possible.
Overall, the precautionary measures taken reflect the emphasis on safety amid challenging maritime conditions. Both passengers and crews must remain vigilant as they navigate the unpredictable environment this weather pattern presents. By keeping open lines of communication, the authorities aim to alleviate concerns and maintain transparency as operations resume following such weather-related challenges.