A crack can be seen in a concrete wall that stands around a middle school in Buan County, North Jeolla Province, after a 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck there on the morning of June 12, 2024. (courtesy of the Jeonbuk State Office of Education)
The 4.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Buan County, North Jeolla Province, was the most powerful earthquake in the Korean Peninsula and its neighboring waters this year. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) stated that this earthquake was the strongest in the western region in the last decade.
The cause of the earthquake was explained as a strike-slip fault movement by the KMA. Some experts suspect the influence of the Hamyeol and Sipjaga fault lines. Due to the weak ground in the Honam area, there are concerns about potential damage from earthquakes.
The initial quake was followed by 17 aftershocks, indicating ongoing stress in the area. Experts emphasize the need for close monitoring of the situation in the future to mitigate potential risks.
Historical records suggest earthquakes of similar magnitudes have occurred in Korea’s western coast in the past. For more information, contact [english@hani.co.kr].