Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

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While early blooms may signal subtle shifts in the environment, heatwaves shout the reality of climate change with unmistakable force. In 2024, South Korea recorded its highest summer temperatures in history, with an average national temperature of 25.6°C between June and August—nearly 2°C higher than the historical average (KMA, 2024). More alarming was the dramatic increase in tropical nights—defined as nights when temperatures remain above 25°C. On average, the country experienced 20.2 tropical nights during the 2024 summer, the longest stretch since national records began .

The human cost of such heatwaves was substantial. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), heat-related illness cases rose by more than 30% compared to the previous year. Vulnerable groups such as elderly individuals, construction workers, and low-income families without air conditioning bore the brunt of the crisis (Kim, 2024). Emergency cooling centers were opened in Seoul and Busan, and nighttime shelters were provided to help residents cope with the unrelenting heat.

Agricultural impacts were equally severe. Crops such as rice, lettuce, and cucumbers exhibited signs of heat stress, with reduced yields and lower quality. In livestock sectors, poultry farms reported increased mortality rates due to poor ventilation and overheating, forcing some producers to cull flocks preemptively. These disruptions led to food price inflation in local markets and placed additional burdens on farmers already struggling with rising energy costs.

The energy demand soared as well. Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) reported record-high electricity usage, driven primarily by air conditioning use. There were concerns over the stability of the national grid, prompting government agencies to issue conservation alerts and temporarily adjust pricing for heavy industrial users

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Looking forward, experts warn that such summers may become the norm rather than the exception. Without drastic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, South Korea could face more than 40 tropical nights annually by 2050, making it one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in East Asia (Korea Meteorological Administration, 2023). Urban planning, green infrastructure, and building codes must be reformed to adapt to this new climate reality. The heat is not just uncomfortable—it’s deadly, and it’s here to stay.

References:  Yun Hee-hun, ​Chosun Biz, ​2025, April 1, Korea records hottest summer since 1973 with extreme weather into November, ​Last visited May 21