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Air Quality Index (AQI) in South Korea 🇰🇷

Seoul Air Quality Index

AQI INDEX
79
US EPA Standard

PM 2.5 Level
24
µg/m³

US EPA Index
2
Moderate

Live Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Levels in South Korea

Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is measured at a score of 79. According to the US EPA health standard, this air quality rating is categorized as Moderate. The current atmosphere in Seoul is influenced by a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration of 24.2 µg/m³ and PM10 levels recorded at 29.7 µg/m³. Monitoring of gaseous pollutants shows Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at 22.8 µg/m³.

Beyond the primary urban hubs, atmospheric conditions and smog levels fluctuate across South Korea based on industrial output, traffic density, and local weather patterns. Real-time pollution data and respiratory health alerts are also being actively monitored in cities like Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejeon. Tracking these air quality metrics is essential for residents nationwide to manage outdoor exposure and maintain respiratory safety during periods of increased particulate concentration.

South Korea Air Quality: Major Cities Index

Pollution Monitor & AQI Forecast: South Korea Regions

* Air Quality Index (AQI) data for South Korea is calculated using the US EPA standard. Information is processed from multiple monitoring stations detecting PM2.5, PM10, and gaseous pollutants to ensure accuracy for respiratory health planning.

Browse Air Quality in South Korea by cities in alphabetical order:

A B C D E G H I J K M N O P S T U W Y

Frequently Asked Questions about Air Quality in South Korea

What is the air quality in South Korea right now?

The current AQI in Seoul (capital of South Korea) is 79 — categorised as Moderate. Conditions vary across the country — see AQI for all cities for a complete picture.

Which city in South Korea has the worst air quality right now?

Right now, Seoul has the highest AQI reading in South Korea at 79 (Moderate).

Which city in South Korea has the best air quality right now?

Ulsan currently has the lowest AQI in South Korea at 53 (Moderate).

What is the PM2.5 level in Seoul today?

The PM2.5 (fine particulate) concentration in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is currently 24.2 µg/m³. The WHO 24-hour guideline is 15 µg/m³.

Is the air in South Korea safe to breathe today?

Most cities in South Korea currently report acceptable air-quality levels, though local conditions vary.

What are the cleanest cities in South Korea right now?

Top 5 cities in South Korea with the best (lowest) AQI right now:

  • Ulsan: AQI 53 — Moderate
  • Changwon: AQI 56 — Moderate
  • Kimhae: AQI 56 — Moderate
  • Pohang: AQI 56 — Moderate
  • Yangsan: AQI 56 — Moderate
What are the most polluted cities in South Korea right now?

Top 5 cities in South Korea with the worst (highest) AQI right now:

  • Seoul: AQI 79 — Moderate
  • Incheon: AQI 79 — Moderate
  • Goyang-si: AQI 79 — Moderate
  • Bucheon-si: AQI 79 — Moderate
  • Gwangmyeong: AQI 79 — Moderate

Air Quality Scales & Resources

Wondering what these AQI numbers mean for your health? Our worldwide air quality guide explains every level of the AQI, PM2.5, PM10, ozone, NO2, CO and SO2 scales, with practical health advice for each range.

→ Understanding Air Quality Levels: read the full guide