Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

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Hello everyone,

South Korea is in the grip of a blistering summer heat wave, with daytime highs repeatedly soaring past 35 °C. Urban centers such as Seoul and Daegu are feeling the worst of it, plagued not only by record-breaking temperatures but also by a spike in biting pests like “lovebugs” swarming Seoul's trails a clear sign of shifting climate patterns. The prolonged heat is placing immense strain on public health systems, infrastructure, agriculture, and vulnerable populations. Hospitals and emergency services are reporting a surge in heat‑related illnesses heat exhaustion and stroke with over 200 serious cases already in Seoul alone.

The human toll of these extreme temperatures is concentrated among the elderly, low-income families, children, and people with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Research shows people with disabilities face an over 7‑fold increase in medical costs and are especially prone to respiratory and cardiovascular complications under heat stress. Meanwhile, young and healthy populations are not spared; outpatient and emergency visits have risen sharply. Agricultural sectors also face devastating losses: approximately 350,000 livestock have perished this season alone, along with thousands of poultry and pigs, threatening food security and rural livelihoods.

This phenomenon stems from climate-driven shifts: the average number of heat wave days has nearly doubled in recent years from about 20 days in 2004–2013 to over 50 between 2014–2023. Coupled with urban heat island effects where built environments intensify ambient temperatures the result is an environment where even subway stations feel like saunas. Around 18% of stations still lack air conditioning, and portable cooling units are proving inadequate

In response, both national and local governments have launched sweeping prevention and adaptation initiatives. A central disaster and safety headquarters has been activated, raising the heat wave alert to “serious” and deploying over 4,000 personnel to implement heat countermeasures. Seoul, Daegu, and others are expanding “cooling roads” by spraying water on surface pavement, operating over 55,000 cooling shelters, extending operating hours of public facilities like libraries and stations into the evening. Aerial drones broadcast public safety messages; para­sols and free‑water refrigerators have been installed; and “pumbulance” teams are delivering urgent care on-site .

Protective measures are also aimed at vulnerable individuals. More than 60,000 welfare or cooling centers are open, with welfare workers making daily calls and visits to ensure support for the elderly, disabled, and socially isolated. Authorities are handing out cooling kits fans, scarves, cooling mats with utility subsidies provided to low-income households. Building and construction sectors are mandated to observe heat‑safety rules including rest periods, shade, water and cool storage, with regular inspections underway. Corporations like Hyundai E&C supply workers with ice‑cold beverages, shade, and paid downtime

Yet tackling heat waves requires action from every citizen too. Experts urge staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities between noon and 5 pm, wearing light clothing, and frequently checking in on at-risk neighbors and family members. Using air-conditioned or cooled spaces, taking cool showers, and posting heat safety info can make a big difference. Public alerts via the national Heat Health Warning System provide region‑specific advisories residents are urged to heed them and adjust plans accordingly

South Korea's intensifying heat waves are a climate era reality bringing health hazards, social inequality, and infrastructure strain. While government and private‑sector measures offer critical short‑term relief, sustainable solutions green roofs, cool pavements, stronger regulations and global emissions reductions are essential to future resilience. Until then, combining public systems with personal vigilance remains the best way to survive and perhaps soften the scorching summer ahead.