The southeastern city of Yangsan peaked at 42.5°C at 1:26 pm, reported the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA). Yangsan has served as the epicenter of the ongoing heatwave, sustaining temperatures above 40°C for five straight days, while major urban centers such as Daegu and Busan likewise endured severe heat.

Authorities issue heatwave warnings

Over 20 regions were placed under emergency heatwave alerts, representing a newly established warning category introduced this season to combat escalating temperatures.

The KMA urged citizens to seek out cooler environments, stay hydrated, and stay away from indoor spaces lacking air conditioning, cautioning that these extreme weather conditions present severe threats to public health.

Heatwave disrupts daily life and sports

Countless residents flocked to air-conditioned shopping malls and cafes to escape the heat. Meanwhile, South Korea's professional baseball league called off a scheduled game in Changwon when the mercury hit 39.5°C, prioritizing the safety of both athletes and fans.

Rising temperatures linked to climate change

Figures from the KMA indicate that the average annual number of heatwave days in South Korea has more than doubled over time, climbing from eight days during the 1970s to 19 days across the past five years.

Researchers emphasise that the growing frequency and severity of these heatwaves are tied directly to human-induced climate change, mirroring extreme summer heat experiences seen in various parts of Europe and across the globe.