A colorful cloud phenomenon known as 'chaewoon' appeared in the sky above the Nongsim headquarters in Seoul, drawing attention.
On August 13, around noon, a soft blend of green, blue, and pink hues was observed among the white clouds stretching across the sky above the Nongsim headquarters in the Dongjak district of Seoul. The multicolored clouds, set against a backdrop of blue sky and lush greenery, resembled large feathers unfurling in the heavens.
Kim Seung-eun, an employee who captured the photos, said, "I happened to look up at the sky during lunch and saw the rainbow colors in the clouds. I wanted to share this beautiful moment with my friends, so I took a picture."
Chaewoon is an atmospheric optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with small droplets or ice crystals in thin clouds, resulting in a spectrum of colors. This differs from the formation of a typical rainbow, which is created by the refraction and reflection of sunlight in raindrops. The phenomenon is best observed when the clouds are thin and the sunlight strikes at the right angle.
The term 'chaewoon' carries cultural significance as well. According to the Encyclopedia of Korean Culture, it describes not just colored clouds but also 'beautiful, auspicious, and fantastical clouds.'
Historically, clouds that shine in multiple colors have been viewed as symbols of good fortune, peace, and prosperity. As a result, those who witness chaewoon often feel as though they are experiencing a sacred or fortunate moment. However, there is no scientific basis for the belief that chaewoon predicts future luck or misfortune. It can be seen as a natural weather phenomenon enriched by cultural symbolism and human hopes.
While scientifically it is a fleeting optical effect created by sunlight and tiny cloud particles, the colorful chaewoon provided a special sight that evoked feelings of auspiciousness for those who gazed upon it that day.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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