No 'Suneung Cold Wave' Expected... Early Winter Chill Until Tomorrow, Then Return to Normal Temperatures

Although the cold weather below freezing continues every morning, the temperature is expected to gradually warm up starting from the 15th, the day before the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), and there will likely be no cold wave on the test day, the 16th. However, there is a possibility of rain nationwide on the CSAT day.

On the 10th, when the temperature dropped close to 0 degrees, showing winter cold, citizens dressed in thick winter clothes are passing through Gwanghwamun, Seoul. Photo by Heo Younghan younghan@

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on the 13th, morning temperatures are forecasted to drop below freezing until early this week, making it colder than usual. Cold air at minus 30 degrees Celsius is present in the upper atmosphere at an altitude of 5 km, and a northwesterly wind blowing along the edge of a high-pressure system located in northern China is causing the cold to persist at ground level.

The daytime high temperatures this week will gradually rise, with 6 to 13 degrees Celsius on the 13th, 8 to 15 degrees on the 14th, and 11 to 16 degrees expected on the 15th. On the CSAT day, the 16th, morning temperatures are expected to be higher than usual. The morning temperatures are forecasted to be 7 degrees in Seoul, 4 degrees in Daejeon, 9 degrees in Busan, and 6 degrees in Gwangju. Although there will be no 'CSAT cold wave' to trouble test-takers, it is not warm enough to head to the test site in light clothing. Instead of wearing one thick layer, it is better to wear several thin layers to regulate body temperature. For the upper body, it is advisable to wear a vest that keeps the abdomen warm, a hoodie jumper or a thin coat, and then add another outer layer on top. Since cold hands and feet can cause poor blood circulation and numbness, it is also good to bring warm socks and gloves made of warm materials.

Citizens are writing messages of support at the CSAT cheering booth set up in front of the Daeungjeon Hall at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the CSAT day, rain is expected nationwide. Heavy rain is forecasted in the central region including the Seoul metropolitan area, while other regions are expected to experience scattered showers. Rain may worsen maritime conditions, so test-takers from island areas are advised to travel in advance. The areas and timing of rainfall may vary depending on the development and movement speed of the pressure trough, so it is important to check the latest forecasts on the day before and the day of the CSAT.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.