What is the coldest city in Korea?
Introduction
In this article, we will explore the coldest city in Korea. Korea is known for its cold winters and snowfall. The country is located in the northern hemisphere, and its climate is influenced by the Siberian high-pressure system. The average temperature in Korea during winter is around -6°C to -16°C, and it can drop as low as -30°C in some cities.
Geography of Korea
Korea is divided into two parts, North Korea and South Korea. South Korea is located on the southern part of the Korean peninsula and has a coastal climate with milder winters compared to North Korea. North Korea, on the other hand, has a continental climate with harsh winters and hot summers.
The Coldest Cities in Korea
There are many cities in Korea that experience extremely cold temperatures during winter. Among them, the coldest city is Hwacheon, located in Gangwon province. It has an average temperature of -11.2°C during winter and is known for its annual ice festival.
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
The Climate of Hwacheon
Hwacheon has a subarctic climate with long and harsh winters. The temperature drops below freezing point from November to March, and it snows heavily during this period. The average annual temperature in Hwacheon is 8.7°C, with an annual precipitation of 1,100 mm.
The Winter Activities of Hwacheon
Despite its harsh climate, Hwacheon offers many winter activities such as ice fishing, ice skating, sledding, and ice climbing. These activities attract many tourists from all over the world.
The History of Hwacheon
Hwacheon has a rich history that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. It was a strategic location for military operations due to its proximity to the border with North Korea. During the Korean War, Hwacheon suffered heavy losses and was rebuilt after the war.
The Economy of Hwacheon
Hwacheon’s economy is based on agriculture, with rice being the primary crop. The city also has a thriving tourism industry, thanks to its winter activities and festivals.
The Demographics of Hwacheon
Hwacheon has a population of around 27,000 people, with most of them living in rural areas. The city has a high aging population, and efforts are being made to attract young people to the city.
Transportation in Hwacheon
Hwacheon is connected to other cities in Korea through a network of highways and railways. The nearest airport is Yangyang International Airport, which is located about 70 kilometers from Hwacheon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hwacheon is the coldest city in Korea with an average temperature of -11.2°C during winter. Despite its harsh climate, it offers many winter activities and has a rich history and culture.
References
Which part of Korea is coldest?
Gyeonggi-do, located in South Korea, experiences cold weather with an average daily high temperature of 17 degrees, making it one of the coldest regions in the country. The climate is similar to that of Central Europe.
Is Seoul colder than NYC?
Compared to New York, Seoul usually experiences milder temperatures. The mean temperature in Seoul is typically 13.89°C (57.0°F), slightly higher than New York’s 13.27°C (55.89°F), with a difference of 0.62°C (33.12°F).
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
What’s the coldest it gets in South Korea?
On January 24, 2023, South Korea experienced its coldest day of the season, with temperatures dropping as low as -39.3°C. In Seoul, temperatures reached -25.5°C and caused freezing conditions.
Which is colder Seoul or Busan?
During the coldest times, temperatures in Busan can drop to as low as -10 °C (14 °F) or lower. However, it is still milder compared to the temperature in Seoul which can plummet to -20 °C (-4 °F). Busan is situated in the least snowy region of South Korea, which is the south-east coast. Snowfall in this area is infrequent and typically light.
What is the snowiest city in Korea?
Ulleung Island, located 120 kilometers (75 miles) east of the Korean Peninsula, receives the most snow in Korea. In contrast, even a small amount of snow, such as 3 centimeters (1.2 inches), can cause disruptions in big cities like Seoul, affecting people and traffic.
Where is Korea snowiest?
Most of the ski resorts in South Korea are situated in the northern region of Gangwon-do province, which receives the highest amount of snowfall every year.
The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival
One of the most popular winter events in Hwacheon is the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. It is held every year in January and February, and it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival is known for its ice fishing activities, where visitors can catch fresh trout from the icy river. Other activities include snow sledding, ice skating, and traditional Korean games.
The Wildlife of Hwacheon
Hwacheon is also known for its diverse wildlife, thanks to its location near the border with North Korea. The area is home to many rare and endangered species, including the Amur leopard, Asiatic black bear, and Siberian tiger. The city has established several nature reserves to protect these animals and promote eco-tourism.
The Cultural Heritage of Hwacheon
Hwacheon has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. The city is home to many historic sites and temples, including the Sangwangbong Seongam Hermitage, which was built during the Goryeo Dynasty. The city is also famous for its traditional Korean cuisine, which includes dishes such as hwae (raw fish) and dakgalbi (spicy grilled chicken).
The Education System of Hwacheon
Hwacheon has a well-developed education system that includes many public and private schools. The city also has a branch campus of Kangwon National University, which offers courses in various fields such as engineering, business, and social sciences.
The Future Development of Hwacheon
Despite its harsh climate and rural location, Hwacheon is poised for growth in the coming years. The city has identified tourism and eco-friendly industries as key areas for development and is investing in infrastructure and education to attract new businesses and young people. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse wildlife, Hwacheon has the potential to become one of Korea’s top destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
