Record Heatwave Sweeps Korean Peninsula, Triggering Emergency Measures -

A record-breaking heatwave is sweeping across the Korean Peninsula, pushing temperatures to historic highs in both South Korea and North Korea and prompting authorities to expand emergency response measures as residents seek relief from the extreme weather.

South Korea’s weather agency said the intense heat, initially concentrated in the country’s southeast, is spreading toward the Seoul metropolitan area and western regions, with temperatures expected to rise further during the week.

In neighbouring North Korea, state media reported temperatures nearing 40°C in some areas and a fifth consecutive tropical night in the capital, Pyongyang.

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) said the southeastern city of Yangsan recorded 42.5°C on Sunday, the highest temperature recorded in the country’s 122 years of weather observations, after breaking the national record on each of the previous two days.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 14 people have died and 1,889 others have suffered heat-related illnesses since mid-May.

In response, the South Korean government has raised its heatwave alert to the second-highest level. Prime Minister Han Seong-sook directed government ministries and local authorities to mobilise all available resources to address the risks posed by extreme heat and worsening drought conditions.

Emergency funding has been released to support relief efforts, while power authorities are closely monitoring electricity demand as air-conditioning use surges.

Local governments have expanded cooling shelters, distributed free drinking water and sun umbrellas, and increased water-spraying operations in affected areas. Severe heatwave warnings remain in effect across several southern regions, including Busan, Ulsan, South Gyeongsang, and parts of Gwangju and South Jeolla Province.

The extreme temperatures have also disrupted daily life. The Korea Baseball Organization cancelled weekend games in Busan and Changwon because of unsafe conditions, while beaches, water parks and riverside recreation areas have seen a surge in visitors seeking relief from the heat.

North Korea is facing similar conditions, with state media reporting that nationwide heat advisories will remain in place throughout the week. Popular attractions, including the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone and water parks in Pyongyang, have drawn large crowds as residents look for ways to escape the scorching temperatures. –ERMD/TS

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