South Korea Hit By Unseasonal Snowstorm On March 18

A significant snowstorm hit various parts of South Korea on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, as commuters faced disruptions from early morning rain and snow. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) reported widespread adverse weather conditions, particularly affecting the capital region and southern areas.

"Spring temperatures should be rising, yet we see white snow falling instead," said An Su-jin, KMA weather caster. By mid-morning, snow had blanketed major cities and rural areas alike, creating both picturesque scenery and logistical headaches for many.

Heavy snow advisories were issued across the country, with the KMA forecasting varying expectations for snowfall throughout the day. The Eastern Gangwon Province was predicted to see the most significant accumulations, with totals possibly exceeding 40 centimeters.

According to the KMA, by late afternoon, snow and rain were expected to taper off for the metropolitan areas, including Seoul and its encompassing regions, transitioning to gradually clearing skies by nighttime. By the end of the day, the anticipated snowfall included:

• 10-30 cm on the eastern coast of Gangwon Province and mountainous regions.


• Up to 20 cm for Gyeongbuk's northern mountainous areas, along with Ulleungdo and Dokdo.


• 5-15 cm expected across Gangwon inland areas.


• Snow amounts of 3-10 cm across the capital and western coastal areas, with lighter accumulations elsewhere.

The KMA cited March 9, 2010, as the previous heaviest snow advisory for Seoul, which was overtaken by today's precipitation. "The heaviest snow advisory for Seoul was marked on March 9, 2010, and today, we have renewed this record," remarked An Su-jin. The snowy conditions were exacerbated by cold winds blowing from the Arctic, contributing to the chilly sensation residents experienced.

Temperature highs for the day peaked between 4 to 8 degrees Celsius, with Seoul reaching just 7 degrees Celsius. Overnight, forecasters predicted lows dipping just below freezing, sustaining the chilly conditions. Residents of major cities such as Daejeon and Gwangju also faced freezing temperatures, seeing highs only reaching 6 degrees Celsius.

The snowstorm prompted travel difficulties as public transport and road systems faced disruptions. Snow cleared gradually as evening approached, yet the cold snap posed the risk of icy roads. Many residents found themselves unprepared for such extreme temperatures so late in the season, leading to concerns about safety and accessibility.

According to reports, strong winds of approximately 15 meters per second created significant challenges for internal travel as well. Gale warnings were issued particularly for coastal and island regions, advising caution against potential disruptions. Wave heights at sea were projected to reach dangerous levels — over 5 meters.

Choi Min-joo, another KMA weather caster, noted, "Heavy snow is falling with significant winds across the nation, and we must be cautious of potential damages." This statement highlighted the added hazards of wind and snow. Reports from across the country suggested power outages and fallen trees were reported due to the weight of the snow on branches.

Local media captured the weather’s whimsical nature and residents' reactions to the ironic late-winter storm during the early spring equinox. Forecasts predict clearer skies resuming by March 19, with brighter weather forthcoming as South Korea approaches the vernal equinox on March 20. This shift hints at the warmer weather spring typically brings: "Starting tomorrow, we expect clearer skies again," confirmed meteorologists.

The KMA reassured the public, inviting them to remain cautious through the transitional weather. The return of typical spring temperatures could arrive shortly, giving hope to those longing for the lazier, warmer days. But for today, snow-covered streets were the prevalent scene.

Traffic advisories continued, with locals reminded to exercise caution when venturing out. The combination of heavy snowfall, chilling winds, and colder temperatures blended to create not only safety concerns but brought unexpected beauty — turning South Korea’s cities and countrysides alike to winter wonderlands.