PHOTOS: Cold snap delivers early winter in South Korea

지리산 — Hoarfrost seen covering Nogodan Peak in Mt. Jiri on Nov. 18/ Courtesy of the office of Jirisan National Park

SEOUL, November 19 (AJP) - South Korea experienced an abrupt onset of winter conditions this week, as temperatures across the nation plunged sharply, bringing unseasonably early snowfall to major mountain ranges.

Jeju Island's Mt. Halla and the mainland's Mt. Jiri were blanketed in white, creating picturesque, albeit premature, winter landscapes.

Despite only being mid-November, the intense cold snap evoked scenes typical of deep winter. Citizens on city streets were observed heavily bundled up, donning thick padding jackets and scarves as protection against the severe chill.

상고대 — Hoarfrost seen covering Nogodan Peak in Mt. Jiri on Nov. 18/ Courtesy of the office of Jirisan National Park

한라산 — A layer of snow, which fell overnight, settles on the head of a traditional Dol Hareubang stone statue on Jeju Island's Mt. Halla, Nov. 19, 2025. Yonhap

People walk along Gwanghwamun street in Seoul, Nov. 18, amidst sub-zero temperatures. Yonhap

Cho Bo-hee jobo@ajupress.com