South Korea: Fine dust above safe levels in Seoul December 11

Event

As of Wednesday, December 11, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) reported unsafe levels of fine dust across Seoul, prompting the Seoul Metropolitan Government to issue a fine dust advisory at 11:00 (local time).

As of 10:00, PM2.5 fine dust concentration at 118 micrograms per cubic meter of air was recorded in Seoul, 106 micrograms per cubic meter in Gyeonggi province, and 90 micrograms per cubic meter in Incheon. Local authorities have implemented emergency emission reduction measures on Wednesday, which includes a ban on grade-5 emission vehicles from 06:00 to 21:00, and an odd-even road rationing plan.

The situation is expected to improve on Thursday, December 12.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor the situation, watch for updates and health advisories issued by local authorities, limit outdoor activities until the situation normalize or wear N95 rated masks as a protection. Children and those with chronic respiratory illnesses should exercise increased caution. Individuals are advised to seek medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties or other health concerns.