On March 13, 2025, yellow dust from China significantly impacted fine dust levels across South Korea, pushing particulate matter concentrations to harmful levels nationwide. This phenomenon, part of the seasonal 'spring nuisance,' began with yellow dust entering the country on March 12, resulting from air currents carrying dust from the Gobi Desert and Inner Mongolia.
According to reports, various regions experienced alarming levels of fine dust. For example, as of March 12, the fine dust concentration had reached 64 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) in the city of Seoul, with other cities reporting similar conditions: Guro-gu at 59 µg/m³ and Cheongju at 55 µg/m³. Such levels fall within the 'bad' air quality category, leading environmental experts to warn the public about the dangers of outdoor activities.
"The dust is expected to expand nationwide throughout the day, with particularly severe impacts anticipated for major areas like the capital region and Chungcheong Province," noted Choi Min-hyuk, from the National Institute of Environmental Research. "We recommend individuals limit outdoor activities, particularly those with respiratory issues, as additional yellow dust is expected to flow from northwestern air currents. This could push concentrations to 'very bad' levels, especially for locations such as Sejong and Chungbuk."
Compounding the issue of fine dust is the thick fog reported across the central western regions, with visibility plummeting to less than 200 meters. Yeongjong Bridge, for example, was shrouded with visibility dropping to below 100 meters, making travel hazardous.
The South Korean Meteorological Administration also announced higher temperatures for most of the country on March 13, reaching up to 15 degrees Celsius in Seoul and 17 degrees Celsius in both Gwangju and Daegu. Despite the warmer temperatures, the adverse air quality cast a shadow over the pleasant spring weather.
“I wanted to go out and enjoy inline skating with friends, but the dust makes it difficult to breathe. I hope the weather improves soon,” expressed Kim Da-sol, who felt the effects directly.
Experts predict the yellow dust intrusion will persist until the afternoon of March 14, after which northeasterly winds are expected to carry the dust away, clearing the air. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Environment has issued reminders for residents to wear masks when stepping outdoors, particularly on impacted days.
Looking forward, the coming weekend is expected to bring about mixed weather conditions, as forecasts indicate possible rain or snow on March 16. This could lead to temperatures drastically dropping again, marking the return of late-winter cold, often referred to as 'flower cold' (봄의 꽃샘추위). Between March 16 and 17, meteorologists also predict significant snowfall, particularly affecting mountainous areas.
On March 12, local authorities took preventive measures by cleaning iconic structures affected by dust accumulation. Specifically, officials from Songpa-gu utilized high-pressure cleaners to wash the Olympic sculpture along Olympic Road. Cleaning efforts, facilitated by cleaning equipment, aim to remove grime accumulated from yellow dust and other pollutants; they are expected to continue until the 14th.
During these challenging weather patterns caused by yellow dust from the Gobi Desert and Inner Mongolia, authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant. The precise situation is rapidly developing, prompting advisories for caution during outdoor exposure.
Although the immediate weather appears mild, the environmental ramifications warrant scrutiny as air quality plummets and public health risks emerge. Individuals are encouraged to stay informed via weather alerts and adopt necessary precautions during this fragile weather phase.