Seoul Faces Poor Air Quality As Wildfire Risks Rise

As of March 24, 2025, air quality in Seoul is at a concerning ‘bad’ level, primarily due to high concentrations of fine dust polluting the atmosphere. This deterioration in air quality comes amid strong winds, with gusts recorded at 79.2 km/h in Yangyang, Gangwon, and 75.6 km/h in Ulsan. Meteorological agencies are warning that these conditions are exacerbating fire risks across the eastern regions of South Korea. The Korean Meteorological Administration (KMA) has forecasted that yellow dust from the Gobi Desert and Inner Mongolia will further worsen air quality tomorrow, with fine dust levels expected to soar from ‘bad’ to ‘very bad’ on March 25.

Alongside air quality concerns, fire warnings have been issued in several districts. As of March 24, a Level 1 mountain fire alert is in effect for areas including Chungcheong and southern regions, with dry weather advisories continuing elsewhere. The KMA indicated that the combination of drying winds and the already dry conditions could create a perfect storm for wildfires. A note of caution has been sounded for residents in the Gyeongbuk area, where dry weather warnings have been intensified.

Along the East Sea and mountainous terrains, strong winds are expected to persist, prompting more advisories and cautionary notices regarding potential fire hazards. Furthermore, cities from Seoul to Daegu are experiencing high temperatures, with the highest daily readings expected to hit 20 degrees Celsius in Seoul and 25 degrees Celsius in Daegu on March 25. These warm conditions, coupled with low humidity levels, create an environment ripe for forest fires, especially with reports highlighting that 46% of wildfires over the last decade occurred during March and April.

The KMA has reported that the morning temperatures will drop to lows of 8 degrees in Seoul, with highs expected throughout the day as South Koreans prep for potentially hazardous weather conditions. In light of these unfolding events, the KMA and the Ministry of Environment have urged citizens to remain vigilant, stressing that even brief moments of carelessness could lead to devastating wildfire incidents in both urban and rural settings.

As spring unfolds, increasing numbers of outdoor enthusiasts climb mountains and hike, drawn by the warmer weather. However, the chance of wildfires increases during this time of year due to the accumulation of dry leaves and twigs along hiking paths, coupled with prevailing dry winds. With spring’s arrival, the need for preventive measures against wildfires is paramount, especially given the alarming statistics on recent fire outbreaks related to human activity and burning materials.

To combat these risks, officials have urged that residents refrain from burning garbage, using flammable substances, or carelessly disposing of cigarette butts in forested areas. Notably, the Environment Ministry and the National Park Service are initiating a National Park Wildfire Prevention Intensive Campaign Period throughout March 2025, ensuring heightened awareness and preventative measures implement across parks, particularly during weekends when visitor numbers surge.

Wildfires threaten not only the immediate vicinity but also can spread rapidly due to high wind speeds. Reports by the Forest Service illustrate that fire propagation in flat terrains can move at 3 to 5 meters per minute, while on steep inclines and during windy conditions, the speed can escalate to a staggering 30 meters per minute. This stark reality underscores the pressing need for protective measures to mitigate fire risks and safeguard both natural habitats and human lives.

Fire management agencies recommend that any signs of wildfire should be immediately reported to the authorities. The repercussions of negligence could lead to fines up to 30 million KRW or imprisonment for up to three years, with more moderate penalties for violations related to burning in regulated areas. These stringent rules reflect a proactive approach to ensuring public safety amid the growing wildfire risk as the spring season progresses.

As we embrace the arrival of spring and the accompanying beauty it unfolds, let us also take a responsible stance toward wildfire prevention, ensuring both safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences while protecting South Korea’s vital natural resources.