Back-to-Back Earthquakes Rattle Yeongdeok: What Happened and How Koreans Reacted

What Happened in Yeongdeok on June 14, 2025?

Did you know that on June 14, 2025, Yeongdeok County in North Gyeongsang Province experienced two minor earthquakes within less than two hours? The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) reported a magnitude 2.0 quake at 12:22 p.m., followed by a slightly stronger magnitude 2.3 quake at 1:58 p.m., both north of Yeongdeok. The epicenters were located 21 and 22 kilometers north of the county, at depths of 12 and 11 kilometers respectively. While these were not major quakes, the tremors were strong enough for some residents, especially those on upper floors, to feel the shaking. The KMA quickly issued safety advisories, reminding everyone to stay alert and follow earthquake safety protocols.

How Strong Were the Tremors? Understanding Korean Seismic Intensity

You might wonder: how strong is a magnitude 2.3 earthquake? In Korea, the KMA uses an instrumental intensity scale. For the second quake, Yeongdeok recorded an intensity level of 3, which means shaking was clearly felt indoors, especially on higher floors, and even stationary cars could sway slightly. Neighboring counties like Yeongyang and Cheongsong experienced a level 2 intensity, which is usually only noticeable to a few people in quiet conditions or on upper floors. While these levels are considered minor and rarely cause damage, they are enough to make people pause and check their surroundings.

Earthquake History in Yeongdeok: Is This Common?

Many locals and online commenters asked: is Yeongdeok prone to earthquakes? According to seismic records, within a 50-kilometer radius of the epicenter, there have been 87 earthquakes of magnitude 2.0 or higher since 1978. The largest was a magnitude 3.8 quake in April 2019. While South Korea is not as seismically active as Japan or parts of the Pacific Rim, minor quakes do happen, especially along the east coast. This historical context helps explain why even small tremors get attention in the Korean media and among the public.

Community Reactions: What Did Koreans Say Online?

Korean online communities like Naver, Daum, and Nate were quick to light up with reactions. On Naver, users posted, 'I felt my chair shake for a few seconds—was that an earthquake?' and 'This is the second one today, should we be worried?' Others on Daum commented, 'It’s rare but always a bit scary when it happens,' and 'I hope everyone is safe.' On DC Inside, some joked about the frequency of minor quakes, while others shared safety tips and links to earthquake preparedness guides. A few users on FM Korea and PGR21 discussed the technical details, comparing the event to past quakes and debating Korea’s readiness for larger seismic events. The overall sentiment was a mix of mild concern, curiosity, and a touch of humor—typical of how Korean netizens process unexpected news.

Cultural Context: Earthquakes in Korean Society

If you’re not from Korea, you might not realize that earthquakes are relatively rare but memorable events here. Unlike Japan, where earthquake drills are routine, most Koreans have limited experience with seismic events. This means even small quakes become widely discussed, and the government’s response is closely watched. The KMA and local authorities usually act fast, issuing alerts and reminders about safety procedures. Earthquake safety education is becoming more common, especially in schools, but many adults still look up what to do in the moment. The cultural response often includes sharing personal experiences online, checking in on friends and family, and sometimes poking fun at the surprise.

What Should You Do During a Korean Earthquake?

So, what does the KMA recommend if you’re in Korea during a quake? First, if you feel shaking, take cover under a sturdy table and protect your head. Once the shaking stops, turn off gas and electricity, and leave the building using stairs, not elevators. Move to an open area like a park or schoolyard, and avoid rumors—always follow official updates from the KMA and local authorities. For drivers, stop your car on the roadside and leave the keys in the ignition before evacuating. These guidelines are increasingly shared on Korean news sites and blogs, especially after events like the Yeongdeok quakes.

How Foreigners and the Korean Fandom See These Events

International fans of Korean culture often follow Korean news closely, and events like these quakes spark curiosity and concern. Many overseas fans express support on social media, saying, 'Stay safe, Korea!' or sharing their own earthquake experiences. The Korean online fandom is known for its quick, witty, and sometimes irreverent takes on breaking news, and this event was no exception. Some fans even create memes or fan art to lighten the mood, a unique aspect of Korean internet culture that blends seriousness with humor.

Summary: Why This Matters for Korea and Beyond

The Yeongdeok earthquakes of June 14, 2025, were minor in scale but significant in terms of public awareness and online discussion. They highlight how even small natural events can bring communities together, spark conversations about safety, and showcase the distinctive ways Koreans react to unexpected news. For international readers, understanding these reactions offers a window into Korean society’s relationship with natural disasters—a mix of caution, community spirit, and a dash of humor.