(Photo courtesy of haps Magazine Korea)
South Korea recorded its second warmest spring since nationwide weather records began in 1973, with average temperatures reaching 13.3°C between March and May.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, only 2023 was warmer. This spring was 1.4°C above the seasonal average and was marked by frequent sunshine and extended periods of mild weather.
The trend is becoming increasingly noticeable in everyday life.
Spring flowers are blooming earlier, outdoor festivals and activities are starting sooner, and many people are putting away winter clothing weeks ahead of schedule.
Beaches, parks, and outdoor cafés are also seeing longer seasons as warm weather arrives earlier each year.
The warmer conditions are affecting more than daily routines. Farmers are adjusting growing schedules, while concerns about summer heat and water management continue to grow.
Sea surface temperatures around the Korean Peninsula were also the second highest recorded in the past decade, averaging 14.0°C and reflecting a broader warming trend across South Korea in recent years.