Following a recent cold spell, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels have increased significantly in South Korea, particularly in areas outside of Gangwon Province. On the 11th, most parts of the country recorded PM2.5 levels categorized as 'bad'. The presence of foreign dust from overseas is contributing to the worsening air quality, with predictions indicating that areas along the southern coast will also see degraded air on the night of the 11th. However, the air quality is expected to improve overnight in metropolitan areas such as Seoul, with recovery in southern coastal regions anticipated by the following afternoon.

While the fine dust situation is concerning, the Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that morning temperatures will drop slightly compared to the previous day but remain close to the seasonal average, preventing any severe cold conditions. As temperatures are expected to gradually rise leading into the weekend, the overall weather will take on more spring-like conditions. This change may bring temporary relief from the harsh winter, but it also raises concerns about the recurring issues of air quality in the region that fluctuate with weather patterns.

The ongoing issues with fine dust emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring and potential interventions to safeguard public health. As the air quality remains a pressing challenge, especially with the introduction of foreign dust, efforts to mitigate these effects will be crucial for urban populations, particularly in densely populated areas. The upcoming shift in temperatures may provide some respite but could also bring a resurgence in air pollution with rising activity levels in warmer weather.