A powerful heatwave has swept across South Korea, where the highest temperature since meteorological records began in 1904 has been recorded.
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Data from the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) show that the temperature in Yangsan, in the southeast of the country, reached 42.5 degrees Celsius on Sunday afternoon. This figure constitutes a historic record.
Yangsan is among the areas worst affected by the heatwave, with temperatures above 40°C for the fifth consecutive day. The situation is similar in Daegu, Busan and Gyeongju. In the latter, a temperature of 40.3°C was recorded, the highest level in the past eight years.
To protect themselves from the intense heat, residents have chosen to stay in shopping centers, cafés and air-conditioned facilities. In Seoul, many have also headed to water-misting areas set up to provide residents with relief from the heat.
“It is far too hot to be outside and do anything. I cannot think of anything other than staying in air-conditioned places, such as home, shopping centers or cafés,” one resident said.
Unusual temperatures have also been recorded in North Korea, where they have reached up to 40°C in some regions. In Pyongyang, nighttime temperatures have not fallen below 25°C for a week.
More than 20 regions of South Korea have been included in the emergency heatwave warning. This is a new category introduced this year in response to rising temperatures, and it is activated when temperatures of 38°C or higher are forecast.
The meteorological service has urged residents to immediately stop all outdoor activities. According to the warning, even staying indoors without air conditioning may pose a risk.
“Move immediately to a cool place, such as a cooling center or a shaded area, and consume as many fluids as possible,” the KMA recommended.
Prime Minister Han Seong-suk has ordered local authorities to increase checks on the most vulnerable individuals and groups. He also called for an uninterrupted supply of electricity and water to be ensured.
Forecasts point to a further spread of the heat toward the interior of the country, driven by easterly winds. In Seoul, temperatures are expected to reach 37°C, while in Gyeongsang Province they could exceed 39°C, creating life-threatening conditions.
Meanwhile, authorities are also closely monitoring Typhoon Dolphin, which is approaching China’s southeastern coast. The KMA estimates that the path the typhoon takes will directly affect the duration of the heatwave.
If Dolphin moves toward eastern China, it could increase humidity and make the heat even more oppressive in Korea. If it approaches the Korean Peninsula more closely, the typhoon could bring strong winds, cloud cover and rain, temporarily lowering temperatures.
