In brief
Seoul has been hit by its most significant November snowfall since reliable record-keeping began, marking a drastic weather shift in the South Korean capital.
Seoul, South Korea, is now covered by a record-setting 16 cm of snow, the most the city has seen in November since records started in 1907. This snowfall surpassed the previous November record of 12.4 cm, which was set in 1972. The severe weather has led to widespread disruptions, with numerous flights grounded, roads closed, and public transport delayed across the region. Tragically, reports confirm that at least one individual lost their life in a weather-related traffic incident near the capital.Officials, including Youn Ki-han from Seoul's Meteorology Forecast Division, attribute the heavy snow to intense westerly winds combined with a notable temperature difference between the sea surface and the frigid air. The challenging weather conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday night and into Thursday morning. This snowstorm comes on the heels of a period of unseasonably warm autumn weather. "Just a week ago, I felt like it was still autumn, but suddenly, it feels like a winter wonderland," remarked local businessman Bae Joo-han while enjoying the snowy streets. This unexpected change has highlighted the dramatic shifts in seasonal weather patterns and offered a uniquely beautiful yet disruptive landscape in downtown Seoul, including the picturesque Gyeongbokgung Palace blanketed in snow.
