Typhoon Champi, the 30th typhoon of 2026, is moving north. Champi formed in the sea east of Guam on October 15 and is now maintaining very strong power in the sea south of Okinawa, Japan. It is expected to pass east of Taiwan and move up to the sea south of Jeju Island.
The name “Champi” was submitted by Laos and means a type of flower.
(Based on the Korea Meteorological Administration forecast as of October 22, 2026)
Typhoon Champi Expected Path
- Oct 21–22: Sea south of Okinawa, Strength 5 (max wind speed 55–56 m/s)
- Oct 23: Sea southeast of Taipei, Taiwan, weakening from Strength 4 to 3
- Oct 24: Sea north-northeast of Taipei, Strength 2 (29 m/s)
- Oct 25 (night): About 310 km south of Seogwipo, Jeju, Strength 1 (23 m/s)
- Oct 26 (night): Becoming an extratropical low over land northeast of Kagoshima, Japan
⚠ This is the expected path based on the KMA forecast as of October 22. The path of Typhoon Champi may change.
Impact on Korea
If the current forecast holds, the center of the typhoon is unlikely to make landfall on the Korean Peninsula. However, as it passes the sea south of Jeju between the 25th and 26th, Jeju Island and the south coast may see rain, strong winds, and high waves.
Personally, I think it will be difficult for this typhoon to land in Korea. The weather in Korea is quite cold today, and cold air is covering the Korean Peninsula, which should make it hard for the typhoon to move north.
Still, I expect a big impact on Jeju Island and the southern regions, and indirect effects may reach as far as Chungcheong Province. Seoul and the capital area are not likely to be affected much. This is my personal outlook, so please check the KMA forecast for accurate information.
Tips for Travelers
- Flights: Flights to and from Jeju on the 25th and 26th may be delayed or canceled. Check your airline app or the Korea Airports Corporation flight information.
- Ferries: Ferries around Jeju and Busan and island tours (Udo, Marado, etc.) are often suspended first because of high waves.
- Outdoor activities: Avoid coastal walks, Olle trails, and hiking Hallasan while the typhoon is affecting the area.
After the typhoon passes, clear and cool autumn weather should return. Be prepared for the rain and enjoy your trip to Korea.
Source: Korea Meteorological Administration Typhoon Information
