As I'm writing this blog, a tremendous amount of rain is falling in Korea. Currently, Korea is in the rainy season, or "jangma(monsoon)" period. Jangma refers to the weather in East Asia where it rains for several days during the summer. Today, I would like to provide a brief explanation of jangma.
Jangma is a characteristic summer climate that can be seen in East Asian countries like South Korea, Japan, and China. This is why jangma is sometimes referred to as the "fifth season."
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In fact, the 2002 FIFA World Cup, hosted by South Korea and Japan, was scheduled earlier than usual because of jangma. While it is usually held in mid-June or mid-July, in 2002 it started on May 31 and ended on June 30. Given that Typhoon Rammasun hit the Korean Peninsula right after the World Cup, it can be said that the decision was wisely made.
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In the case of the Korean Peninsula, the precipitation supplied by the jangma front accounts for more than 30% of the total annual rainfall. This indicates how much it rains during the jangma season.
The duration of jangma varies greatly each year. Due to global warming and climate change, this uncertainty is increasing. Generally, jangma lasts for about a month. Sometimes it ends in July, but there have been instances where it continued until mid-August.
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Of course, jangma does not mean that it rains all day long. It often rains intermittently, starting and stopping suddenly. This is referred to as heavy rain or concentrated downpours, commonly known as torrential rain.
The Korea Meteorological Administration issues a heavy rain advisory when more than 60mm of rain is expected in three hours or more than 110mm in twelve hours. If more than 90mm of rain is expected in three hours or more than 180mm in twelve hours, a heavy rain warning is issued.
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There are also advantages to jangma. It can resolve droughts and be beneficial for agriculture. It also clears out fine dust, one of Korea's major air quality issues.
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However, excessive rain can lead to flooding in rivers and lakes. This causes problems not only in the Hangang River in Seoul but also in other rivers, resulting in sewer overflows and other issues. Additionally, in mountainous areas, landslides can cause significant damage and casualties. This is an annual issue.
Jangma is a characteristic summer climate that can be seen in East Asian countries like South Korea, Japan, and China. This is why jangma is sometimes referred to as the "fifth season."
연합뉴스
In fact, the 2002 FIFA World Cup, hosted by South Korea and Japan, was scheduled earlier than usual because of jangma. While it is usually held in mid-June or mid-July, in 2002 it started on May 31 and ended on June 30. Given that Typhoon Rammasun hit the Korean Peninsula right after the World Cup, it can be said that the decision was wisely made.
연합뉴스
In the case of the Korean Peninsula, the precipitation supplied by the jangma front accounts for more than 30% of the total annual rainfall. This indicates how much it rains during the jangma season.
The duration of jangma varies greatly each year. Due to global warming and climate change, this uncertainty is increasing. Generally, jangma lasts for about a month. Sometimes it ends in July, but there have been instances where it continued until mid-August.
중앙일보
Of course, jangma does not mean that it rains all day long. It often rains intermittently, starting and stopping suddenly. This is referred to as heavy rain or concentrated downpours, commonly known as torrential rain.
The Korea Meteorological Administration issues a heavy rain advisory when more than 60mm of rain is expected in three hours or more than 110mm in twelve hours. If more than 90mm of rain is expected in three hours or more than 180mm in twelve hours, a heavy rain warning is issued.
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There are also advantages to jangma. It can resolve droughts and be beneficial for agriculture. It also clears out fine dust, one of Korea's major air quality issues.
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However, excessive rain can lead to flooding in rivers and lakes. This causes problems not only in the Hangang River in Seoul but also in other rivers, resulting in sewer overflows and other issues. Additionally, in mountainous areas, landslides can cause significant damage and casualties. This is an annual issue.
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중앙일보
Jangma also has a substantial impact on people's mental health. The term "jangma depression" refers to the phenomenon where reduced sunlight increases melatonin production, causing moodiness. Being stuck indoors due to the rain exacerbates this feeling. According to the Korean fire department, July, the peak of the jangma season, has the highest number of suicide-related calls. While jangma may not be the sole cause, it certainly contributes to its notorious reputation.
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In Seoul, many roads are often closed due to jangma. Low-lying roads and areas near rivers frequently get flooded. This worsens traffic congestion, making people reluctant to go out. Even public transportation, like buses, arrives late due to these traffic jams.
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The prices of vegetables and fruits also skyrocket. Reduced sunlight hinders photosynthesis, causing crops to spoil quickly. Even if they survive, high soil moisture levels and reduced sugar content in fruits lower their market value. There is a saying in Korea that one should avoid eating watermelon during jangma.
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한겨레
Jangma is undoubtedly a challenging season. Living in Korea means enduring this, given the geographical and environmental conditions. However, as it is a recurring phenomenon, preparation is essential. During jangma, it is important to take care of those around you, ensure safety, and minimize outdoor activities. Considering that accidents occur every year, both national-level responses and personal preparations are necessary.