How to Prepare for Snow in Korea: A Safety Guide for Winter
- FLip Korea
- Dec 5, 2025
- 2 min read
Winter in Korea can be breathtakingly beautiful, but also unpredictable. Heavy snow can fall rapidly in a short period of time, causing traffic accidents, vehicle isolation, slippery roads, and even collapse of older facilities. Wet snow, in particular, is 3 to 10 times heavier than normal snow, increasing the risk of structural damage.
To stay safe this winter, here are the official National Behavior Guidelines and practical tips you can follow with family, friends, and neighbors.
1. Stay Updated: Check Weather Forecasts Regularly
Korea’s heavy snow warnings come in two levels:
Heavy Snow Advisory: 5 cm of snowfall
Heavy Snow Warning: 20 cm of snowfall
Keep an eye on weather updates to prepare early, especially for wet snow, which can cause faster accumulation and more accidents.
Tip: If snow is piling up, avoid going out unless it is absolutely necessary.
Use public transportation instead of driving whenever you can.
2. Prevent Slips & Falls: Clear Snow Around Your Home
Snow removal is everyone’s responsibility in Korea.
Be sure to:
Shovel snow in front of your house, store, or building
Avoid using bicycles, electric scooters, and kickboards
Clear ice early to prevent falls
When removing snow:
Work during the daytime
Work in teams of at least two people
Avoid dangerous late-night snow shoveling
Do not climb onto roofs
If snow becomes too heavy, evacuate immediately to a safe place.
3. Avoid Dangerous Structures
Stay away from:
Old buildings
Old trees
Temporary tents
Vinyl greenhouses
Livestock sheds
Any structure that looks like it may collapse
If you notice bending, shaking, cracking, or sagging, evacuate and report it right away.
4. Stay Safe on the Road
Driving in heavy snow requires extra caution.
Follow these guidelines:
Maintain a safe distance
Drive slowly
Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp turns
Reduce your speed by 20–50% of the speed limit
Use winter equipment like:
Snow chains
Spray chains
Proper winter tires
Prepare these items before snow season starts.
5. Prepare for Power Outages & Isolation
Whether you’re at home or traveling, keep winter emergency items ready:
Flashlights or emergency lighting
Blankets, heat packs, or warm clothing
Convenience foods
Drinking water
Fuel (gas, portable heater fuel, etc.)
For electric vehicle users: Keep your EV charged frequently to avoid being stranded.
6. Stay Connected with Safety Apps
You can receive real-time local weather and disaster alerts by using the Safety Stepping Stone App (안전디딤돌).
📱 Download the app here:
iPhone:
Android:
Set your preferred region to receive emergency alerts wherever you are in Korea.
And always remember to check in with your parents or loved ones during severe weather.
Final Tips
Prepare early before the snow arrives
Communicate with neighbors and help each other
Follow official updates from 국민재난안전포털 (safekorea.go.kr)
Credit: Official Website Safe Korea Stay warm, stay safe, and take winter seriously
Snow in Korea can be magical, but with proper preparation, it can also be safe. Stay aware, stay prepared, and enjoy the beauty of Korean winter responsibly!
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