S. Korea’s heat-related illness cases triple in late summer
Government data shows that the number of heat-related illnesses reported in South Korea in late summer has nearly tripled in the past 10 years, Qazinform News Agency cites Yonhap.
From 2011–2015, an annual average of 215 patients were reported between 'ipchu' (August 7, marking the start of autumn on the traditional calendar) and the end of August.
From 2016–2020, the average rose to 658 cases, and from 2021–2025, to 638 cases.
Deaths also increased from 3.3 annually (2012–2015) to more than 4 annually (2016–2025).
In 2024 alone, 1,299 people suffered heat-related illnesses during this period, with 12 deaths.
Heat waves are expected to persist until late August 2026, with daytime highs ranging from 31–35°C nationwide.
Earlier reports noted, temperatures topped 40 C in Seoul and other parts of the country Friday, the state weather service said, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing extreme heat wave.
