Hello! Here is the latest news update for today.
On the afternoon of July 28, a powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Kyushu region of Japan. The strong tremor was not only felt locally in Japan but also triggered noticeable shaking in southern parts of South Korea—including Busan, Ulsan, Gyeongnam, and Jeju—as well as parts of the Seoul Metropolitan Area.
Here is a quick summary of the current situation in Japan, its impact on South Korea, and report details.
1. Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake in Kumamoto, Kyushu (Japan)
- Time of Occurrence: Around 4:27 PM (KST/JST), July 28, 2026
- Epicenter: Approx. 23 km south of Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu (Depth: 10 km)
- Magnitude: 7.1 (Followed by multiple aftershocks measuring 6.1, 5.0, etc.)
- Current Status: A maximum seismic intensity of 7 was observed in parts of Japan, and tsunami advisories (around 1-meter high) were temporarily issued.
2. Tremors and Impacts Felt in South Korea
Due to the proximity of the epicenter, mild to moderate shaking was felt across many parts of South Korea, particularly in the southern regions.
- Seismic Intensity 3: Busan, Gyeongnam, Jeonnam, Gwangju, Jeju
- Level 3 Intensity: Noticeable by people indoors or on upper floors of buildings; parked cars may sway slightly.
- Seismic Intensity 2: Daegu, Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, Jeonbuk, Chungnam, Chungbuk, Gyeonggi, Gangwon, etc.
- Emergency Reports: Over 780 emergency call reports were made to the National Fire Agency nationwide (highest concentration in southern areas: Busan 291, Ulsan 125, Gyeongnam 120).
Witnesses reported swinging signs, shaking office fans, and brief evacuations from high-rise buildings following the sudden tremor.
3. Damage & Nuclear Power Plant Safety Status
Fortunately, according to South Korea’s Ministry of the Interior and Safety and National Fire Agency, no casualties or major property damage have been reported domestically.
Additionally, major nuclear power plants located relatively close to Japan—such as the Kori Nuclear Power Plant in Busan and the Wolsong Nuclear Power Plant in Gyeongju—are operating normally without any recorded disruptions.
💡 Essential Safety Tips for Earthquakes!
- If indoors: Protect your head with a cushion or your arms, and duck under a sturdy table.
- When shaking stops: Turn off gas and electricity, and use stairs (not elevators) to evacuate to an open field or park.
- If driving: Turn on hazard lights, pull over to the right side of the road, and leave the key in the ignition while evacuating.
As aftershocks may continue, please stay tuned to local emergency announcements and meteorological safety alerts.