A historic snowstorm swept through Seoul, South Korea, on Wednesday, marking the heaviest November snowfall in over half a century. The capital city and its surrounding areas were covered in 20 to 26 centimeters (7.8 to 10 inches) of snow, with northern regions bearing the brunt of the storm. This snowfall surpassed the previous record set 52 years ago, with a storm in 1972 depositing 12 centimeters (4.7 inches) of snow.
The severe weather conditions led to tragic incidents, including a fatal five-vehicle accident in Hongcheon that claimed one life and injured four others. In Yangju, a person lost their life when a tent-type garage collapsed while they were clearing snow. Additionally, temporary power outages affected around 230 homes in Gwangju due to the heavy snow.
The impact of the storm extended beyond Seoul, with central, eastern, and southwestern regions of the country also experiencing significant snowfall ranging from 10 to 28 centimeters (3.9 to 11 inches). Transportation systems were severely disrupted, with 317 flights canceled or delayed, 90 ferries grounded, and numerous hiking trails closed for safety reasons.
The icy road conditions in Seoul caused major delays in the morning commute, leading to overcrowded subways. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to address fallen trees and other hazards across the country. While school closures were not confirmed by the Safety Ministry, authorities remained vigilant in ensuring public safety.
Despite the challenges posed by the snowstorm, many residents and visitors found moments of joy amidst the winter wonderland. People dressed in traditional hanbok attire enjoyed the picturesque snow-covered palaces in Seoul, while snowmen dotted playgrounds and schoolyards nationwide.
The weather agency forecasted continued snowfall across most parts of South Korea until noon on Thursday. President Yoon Suk Yeol directed relevant ministries to mobilize resources to prevent further accidents and ensure public safety in the wake of the unprecedented snowstorm.
