Sudden heavy snowfall hit the capital region on Thursday evening, causing significant disruptions and overnight commuter gridlock.

A heavy snow advisory was issued for Seoul and its surrounding area at 6 p.m. and lifted two hours later, but the accumulation of snow continued to hamper the evening commute.

Seoul restricted access to several entry points of the Naebu Expressway at 7 p.m. The Bukbu Expressway was also closed, but reopened early Friday. 

Authorities also shut sections of the Bundang–Suseo Road overnight for snow removal.

Severe traffic congestion persisted from Thursday evening into early Friday, leaving vehicles stranded for hours as buses broke down and cars skidded on icy roads.

To facilitate Friday’s commute, the Korea Railroad Corporation added 13 extra trains across five lines, including Seoul Subway Line 1.