A record-breaking heatwave is sweeping across the Korean peninsula, affecting both South and North Korea with soaring temperatures and prompting expanded emergency measures. Authorities in South Korea have responded by extending relief efforts and increasing public safety actions as temperatures climb beyond historical levels.

According to South Korea’s weather agency, the extreme heat, initially concentrated in the southeastern regions, has now spread into the Seoul metropolitan area and western parts of the country. On August 2, Yangsan recorded a temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius, marking the highest reading in 122 years of weather records. The city had already set national temperature records on the two prior days. Forecasters warned that temperatures in western regions could rise further this week.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency reported that since mid-May, heat-related illnesses have affected 1,889 people, with 14 fatalities attributed to the extreme weather conditions. In response, Prime Minister Han Seong-sook directed government ministries and local authorities to deploy all available resources to address the compounded risks of heatwave and drought. The government has raised the heatwave alert to the second-highest level, enabling increased funding for relief operations and more frequent inspections of vulnerable areas.

With electricity demand expected to reach record levels due to increased use of air conditioning, power authorities have implemented emergency measures to balance supply and consumption. On August 3, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) issued its first-ever severe heatwave warning for parts of Seoul and neighboring Gyeonggi province. High-level heat alerts remain in effect in southern regions such as Busan, Ulsan, South Gyeongsang, Gwangju, and South Jeolla province.

Local governments have intensified efforts to protect residents, particularly those vulnerable to heat-related health effects. Seoul districts have expanded cooling shelters and distributed free water and sun umbrellas, while Yangsan increased water spraying and distribution on city streets. The extreme heat has also disrupted public events; the Korea Baseball Organization cancelled games scheduled in Busan and Changwon over the weekend.

Despite the challenges, many people have sought relief at outdoor water venues. Beaches, water parks, and riverside recreation areas across the peninsula have seen heavy crowds. In Seoul, families gathered at the Cheonggyecheon stream, where a summer water festival offers paddling zones and splash areas, providing respite from the heat. Residents expressed concern over the intensifying climate, with one noting that temperatures near 40 degrees Celsius have become a frequent occurrence.

North Korea is experiencing comparable heatwave conditions. State media reported temperatures nearing 40 degrees Celsius in several regions, with parts of Pyongyang enduring a fifth consecutive tropical night. Heat advisories are expected to remain in effect nationwide through the week. Tens of thousands reportedly visited the Wonsan Melran Coastal Tourist Zone in July, and water parks in Pyongyang have been crowded, according to official television coverage.

The unfolding heatwave reflects a growing climate challenge for the Korean peninsula as both countries adapt to rising temperatures and associated health and infrastructure risks.