A massive snowstorm has swept across South Korea, disrupting transportation and leaving travelers stranded as heavy snowfall blankets large parts of the country. Air China, Busan, Jeju, Japan, All Nippon, Korean Air, and Seoul face severe travel disruptions as over one hundred forty flights are delayed due to a rare spring snowstorm at Gimpo and Yeosu airports, shutting down ferry services across South Korea. The extreme weather has forced the cancellation of 41 ferry routes and triggered major flight delays, particularly in Gangwon, Chungcheong, and Gyeongsang provinces, where the storm’s impact has been most severe. Weather experts have warned that snow and rain will persist overnight, heightening the risk of further travel chaos and extended disruptions.

Severe Travel Disruptions as Snowfall Continues

Major Impact on Transport Services

  • Ferry routes canceled: 41
  • Airports heavily impacted: Gimpo International Airport (GMP) and Yeosu Airport (RSU)
  • Suspended ferry routes: Incheon to Baengnyeong Island, Pohang to Ulleung Island, and several others

Flight Disruptions at South Korean Airports

Gimpo International Airport (GMP):

  • Total delayed flights yesterday: 137
  • Airlines experiencing the most disruptions:
    • Korean Air – Widespread delays and rescheduled flights
    • Asiana Airlines – Significant operational setbacks
    • Jeju Air, Jin Air, and Air Seoul – Numerous delays across domestic routes

Yeosu Airport (RSU):

  • Total delayed flights yesterday: 5
  • Most impacted airlines:
    • Korean Air and Jin Air – Multiple last-minute changes

In addition, flights operated by All Nippon Airways (ANA), China Airlines, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, Eastar Jet, Japan Airlines, T’way Air, and Air Busan have also suffered delays. Authorities are advising travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

Rare March Snowstorm Covers South Korea in Ice and Snow

Spring is typically expected to bring warmer temperatures, but this year, a powerful low-pressure system has triggered an unexpected snowstorm, blanketing South Korea with unusually heavy snowfall. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has recorded:

  • 50 cm of snow in parts of Gangwon, Chungcheong, and Gyeongsang provinces
  • 11 cm in Gyeongju, making road conditions difficult
  • 7 cm in Ulsan, impacting daily transportation
  • 5.9 cm in Yangpyeong (Gyeonggi Province)
  • 3.1 cm in Seoul, an uncommon sight for early spring

According to weather experts, the low-pressure system originating in Shanghai, China, is moving northeast toward Kyushu, Japan, intensifying snowfall and worsening travel conditions.

Road Closures and Dangerous Driving Conditions

Beyond ferry and air travel disruptions, the heavy snow has caused significant traffic issues, forcing authorities to shut down multiple roads and highways. The following closures have been reported:

  • Three major road closures in Gangwon Province
  • One highway shutdown in North Chungcheong
  • Six blocked roads in North Gyeongsang

Authorities warn that driving conditions remain hazardous, with icy roads and poor visibility. While no casualties have been reported, officials strongly urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.

Key Travel Advice for Passengers

With widespread delays and cancellations, passengers should be prepared for unexpected disruptions. Authorities advise travelers to:

Confirm flight and ferry schedules before heading to the airport or port
Allow extra time for commuting, as snow-covered roads may cause congestion
Stay updated with weather alerts and transport notices for real-time changes
Consider alternative travel plans, including rebooking options

What’s Next: Snowstorm Expected to Subside, But Delays May Persist

Weather forecasters expect the storm to weaken by late Tuesday night, but lingering snow and rain could continue to affect travel over the next 24 to 48 hours. Transport authorities are actively monitoring the situation and will issue further updates as necessary.

For real-time travel updates, passengers should check directly with airlines, ferry operators, and local transport agencies. Those with flexible schedules may want to postpone travel plans until conditions improve.

As South Korea navigates through this unexpected March snowstorm, officials urge travelers to stay informed, remain cautious, and be patient while transportation services work to restore normal operations.

The post Air China, Busan, Jeju, Japan, All Nippon, Korean Air and Seoul Face Severe Travel Disruptions as Over One Hundred Forty Flights Are Delayed Due to a Rare Spring Snowstorm at Gimpo and Yeosu Airports, Shutting Down Ferry Services Across South Korea appeared first on Travel And Tour World.