Seoul Myeongdong - First Snow: A Winter Clothing Guide for Foreign Tourists (2024.11.27)

A. November 27, 2024, Myeongdong, Seoul - A Historic Day

November 27, 2024, Myeongdong, Seoul witnessed a historically significant meteorological event. 

On this day, Seoul recorded its highest snowfall for the month of November. Myeongdong, and indeed the entire city, experienced snowfall exceeding 16cm in some areas. This was the highest snowfall recorded since meteorological observations began in 1907, making it the most intense first snowfall in 117 years and highlighting the effects of climate change.

The first snowfall in Seoul is not merely a weather phenomenon; it's seen as a signal of the arrival of winter, with many people going out to celebrate or create memories.

However, the sudden snowfall and cold weather can be a novel experience for foreign tourists, making it crucial to prepare appropriate clothing. This article will analyze Seoul's snowfall and first snowfall to provide specific guidance on how foreign tourists can prepare for Seoul's winter weather.

The video below was filmed in Myeongdong on November 27, 2024.
The first snow of winter 2024 has arrived in Myeongdong, Seoul, South Korea!

B. Seoul Snowfall and First Snow Analysis on November 27, 2024

1. Snowfall Analysis

On November 27, 2024, the snowfall in Myeongdong, Seoul exceeded 16cm, setting a record for the highest November snowfall ever recorded. The amount of snow varied across Seoul; Gangbuk-gu saw over 20cm, while Yangcheon-gu had only 3.5cm. A heavy snowfall warning was issued nationwide, with many areas experiencing significant snowfall leading to traffic congestion and accidents.

2. First Snow Analysis

The day the first snow fell in Seoul in 2024 marked the highest snowfall in 117 years. Seoul's first snowfall usually occurs between mid-to-late November, with variations in the amount and timing of snowfall each year due to temperature differences and climatic influences. However, this first snowfall significantly exceeded past records, attributed to an unusual weather pattern influenced by cold air from the north and warmer sea surface temperatures. Considering that the previous record was 9.5cm on November 20, 1966, this snowfall was an exceptional event.

3. Impact of Climate Change

This heavy snowfall is closely linked to climate change. Scientists warn that the rising sea surface temperatures in recent years have intensified the tendency for more significant snowfall when cold air from the north moves south. The heavy snowfall in Seoul in late November is considered a result of this intensifying climate pattern.

C. Winter Clothing Guide for Foreign Tourists in Seoul

Seoul winters experience significant temperature drops, with winds becoming colder and temperatures dropping below freezing, especially after heavy snowfall. We provide detailed guidance on the clothing necessary for foreign tourists to adapt to Seoul's cold and snowy winter weather.

1. Outerwear: Warmth and Waterproofing are Key

Seoul's winter weather is characterized by cold winds and snowfall, making suitable outerwear essential. The key considerations are warmth and waterproofing.

• Long Coats: A basic and classic winter outerwear choice. For enhanced warmth, choose wool or down-filled long coats. Waterproofing is practical for snow and rain.
• Padding (Padded Jackets): Padding offers high warmth and comes in various styles to balance style and practicality. In heavy snow, short padded jacketsprotect against wind, while long padded jacketsoffer full-body warmth.
• Jackets: Seoul winters can be intensely cold, but excessively bulky outerwear can be uncomfortable. Down jacketsor windbreaker jacketsoffer wind protection while maintaining warmth.

2. Thermal Underwear and Underclothing: The Importance of Layering

Seoul's winter experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the day, making layering crucial.

• Knit Sweaters: Adding an extra layer when temperatures drop is useful. Warm knit sweaters help maintain body temperature while outdoors.
• Thermal Underwear: With Seoul's temperatures dropping below freezing, thermal underwearis essential. Heat-generating thermal underwear is particularly effective.

3. Lower Body: Comfortable and Warm

• Slacksor Jeans: While slacks or jeans can be worn in winter, those with warm linings provide better insulation.
• Long Skirts: For women, long skirts offer wind protection.

4. Protecting Hands, Feet, and Head

• Boots: Waterproof boots are essential for protecting feet on snowy roads. Warm fleece-lined or winter boots keep feet warm.
• Gloves and Earmuffs: Cold winds make gloves and earmuffs essential. Touchscreen gloves are recommended for using electronic devices.

5. Accessories: Warmth and Style Combined

• Hats: Knit hats or earflap hats protect the head and ears while adding style.
• Scarves: Thick scarves are important when temperatures drop below freezing, effectively blocking cold winds.

D. Seoul, South Korea's Winter - Check the Weather Before You Travel

Seoul's winter offers visitors a unique experience with its frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall. For foreign tourists to enjoy Seoul's winter comfortably, warmth and waterproofing are crucial considerations when selecting clothing.

Specifically, layering multiple clothing items helps maintain body temperature, while warm footwear, gloves, and hats are recommended. To enjoy a winter trip to Seoul, it's important to check your supplies and adapt quickly to changing temperatures.

K-Beauty Shop in Myeong Dong, Seoul, Korea - Find Alice Kim!
Feel free to ask about Korean Cosmetics in Myeongdong, buying them in small or large amounts.

https://litt.ly/alice.kim