SEOUL, January 28 (AJP) - A powerful snowstorm disrupted transportation across South Korea on Tuesday, the fourth day of the six-day Lunar New Year holiday, causing multiple traffic accidents and grounding flights and ferries.
Mount Halla on Jeju Island recorded 61.1 centimeters of snow accumulation since Monday, while the central county of Jincheon received 42.3 centimeters, and Seoul's Gwanak District measured 15.7 centimeters.
The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) forecast an additional 10–20 centimeters of snow in parts of the country through Wednesday, the Lunar New Year's Day.
The severe weather triggered multiple traffic accidents across the country on Monday.
In Seosan, South Chungcheong Province, nine corporate shuttle buses slid on icy roads, resulting in a multi-vehicle crash that injured 48 people.
On the Gyeongbu Expressway near Cheonan, two buses and a car collided, injuring 35 people. Twelve vehicles were involved in a pileup on an icy highway near Pyeongtaek, causing minor injuries to two people.
The heavy snow has led to widespread transportation chaos.
According to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, 111 flights were canceled nationwide, including 68 at Incheon International Airport.
Ferry services on major routes, such as between Incheon and surrounding islands, were halted, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.
On Tuesday morning, operations on the Yongin Light Rail were halted for 2.5 hours due to snow, inconveniencing commuters.
Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail) reduced the speed of KTX bullet trains operating on major lines, including the Gyeongbu, Honam, Gangneung, and Jungang routes.
National parks have also been affected, with access to 527 trails across 20 parks—including Mount Seorak and Mount Jirisan—restricted due to the dangerous conditions.
Key mountain roads on Jeju Island were closed, with some areas reporting nearly 130 centimeters of snow.
Local governments across the country have mobilized resources to manage the crisis.
In Gangwon Province, more than 3,500 personnel and nearly 3,900 pieces of equipment were deployed for snow removal, while Incheon authorities dispatched over 1,000 workers to clear icy roads and ensure public safety.
As snow continues to fall, officials are urging caution on the roads and advising travelers to check transportation updates before venturing out.
reporter
Kim Joo-heon
jhkim123@ajunews.com
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