South Korea: 5.4-magnitude earthquake in Pohang (south) Nov. 15

Event

A 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck the southern city of Pohang at around 14:30 (local time) on Wednesday, November 15. Four people were injured and some buildings sustained minor damages. The earthquake’s epicenter was located at around 6 km (3.5 mi) from Pohang. Tremors were felt in the capital Seoul, located at some 270 km (168 mi) to the northwest. Aftershocks have been reported.

Context

Although rare, medium-intensity earthquakes can strike the country. Due to the North Korean nuclear program, South Korea is also subject to nuclear test-induced earthquakes, as was the case on September 3, 2017, when a hydrogen thermonuclear bomb test triggered a 6.3-magnitude earthquake. Natural earthquakes tend to be much weaker (e.g. 2.1-magnitude quake on October 4, 2017, no damage). The last earthquake with a magnitude above 5 occurred in 2014 but caused no damage.

Advice

Generally speaking, after a powerful earthquake, check for damages and take note of your surroundings. If indoors, shut off water, gas, and electricity lines and evacuate the building.