VIDEO Korea on fine dust alert as polluted air blows in from China

Ultrafine dust levels are high across the nation due to smog from Beijing. Yonhap

By Lee Min-young

Smog-laden air blowing in from China is making it difficult for Koreans to venture outdoors without a mask.

Air quality across most parts of the nation is expected to remain "bad" throughout the day as ultrafine dust levels soar due to a thick blanket of smog coming from Beijing.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, Seoul's ultrafine dust level shot up to 40 micrograms per cubic meter as of 9 a.m. Tuesday ― 36 micrograms is the threshold to call "bad" air quality.

The reading is higher in Gyeonggi Province where levels topped 160 micrograms in some parts.

Ultrafine dust advisories are in place for some parts of North Jeolla and North Chungcheong provinces.

Weather authorities are predicting that smog from Beijing will gradually make its way into the nation this afternoon. Beijing was shrouded in thick smog on Monday while a massive sandstorm hit China's northwest.

Ultrafine dust levels have soared due to smog from China. Yonhap

Air quality in Seoul is expected to stay "bad" throughout the day. Yonhap

A gray haze blankets the nation. Yonhap

Dusty conditions will continue across the nation affected by smog from Beijing. Yonhap

People in Beijing wear masks due to the year's worst smog. Yonhap

Beijing's streets show low visibility due to thick smog. Yonhap