Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

Hello, and welcome to today’s episode, where we’ll talk about how to get through Korea’s extreme weather. If you've been in Korea for a while, you've probably experienced just how intense the seasons can be here. Summers are sweltering hot and humid, while winters are bitterly cold, often dropping far below freezing. These drastic changes can be tough even for locals, but for many international students, they can be especially challenging. So today, I want to share some practical tips on how to stay safe during Korea's extreme weather. Let's start with those brutal summer months. In July and August, temperatures often climb above 35 degrees Celsius, and with the heavy humidity, it honestly feels even hotter. Now, this isn't just about feeling a bit sweaty—we're talking about real health risks here, especially if you're not used to this kind of heat. Here's something you might not know: during heat waves, the local government actually opens public cooling shelters, called "무더위 쉼터" (*Mudeoui Swimteo*). These are lifesavers—literally. They're usually libraries, community centers, or other public buildings with air conditioning where anyone can go to cool down for free. For example, in Chuncheon alone, there are more than a hundred of these designated cooling shelters scattered across the city, including health centers and community halls. So if your dorm room or apartment turns into a sauna and you don't have proper AC, or even when you are outside drenched in sweat, these shelters can be your escape route. Beyond that, make sure you're drinking plenty of water, wearing light and breathable clothing, and try to avoid any serious outdoor activities during the peak heat hours—usually between noon and 4 PM. On the flip side, when winter hits, it hits hard. Cold waves, known in Korean as “한파” (Hanpa), can lower temperatures to minus 15 degrees Celsius or even below. Just as in summer, the government prepares heating shelters called “한파 쉼터” (Hanpa Swimteo). These are warm public buildings where people can stay safe from the severe cold. In cities like Chuncheon, these heating shelters are located in public buildings and remain open during the day, providing residents with a reliable and accessible warm place. They can be a vital lifeline not only for local residents but also for international students who may not be fully prepared for the severe winter. At the same time, preparation is essential. Wearing several layers of clothing and keeping your hands, feet, and head covered will help reduce heat loss. It is also important to be cautious on icy sidewalks, as slipping on frozen pavement is one of the most common accidents during winter. The useful part is that you can check the locations of these shelters before you need them. On the National Disaster and Safety Portal, also called the Safe Korea website, there is a section for shelters. You can select your city and district, and it will show the nearest shelters with addresses and opening hours. An even simpler way is to search “무더위 쉼터” or “한파 쉼터” in Naver Map or Kakao Map. The shelters will appear on the map, so you can quickly find the one closest to you. It is a good idea to save the nearest location on your phone in advance. So to wrap this up, dealing with Korea's scorching summers and freezing winters is just part of life here. But you don't have to suffer through it. By knowing about these public shelters, checking their locations in advance, and adjusting your daily habits to the season, you can stay safe and healthy. This is not only about comfort—it is about protecting your well-being. Thanks for listening, and I hope this helps you prepare for the season ahead. Stay warm, stay safe, and take care.