Deaths attributed to the intense heatwave grow to 19 individuals
In South Korea, the ongoing heat waves have led to a significant increase in heat-related illnesses and deaths compared to last year. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), as of late July to early August 2025, there have been 19 deaths due to heat-related illnesses, a number that is more than triple the 4 to 7 deaths in the same period last year.
The KDCA also reported that over 3,100 patients have visited emergency rooms for heat-related conditions since mid-May. This represents a rise of roughly 2.5 to 2.6 times compared to the approximately 1,110 cases in 2024.
The common heat-related illnesses include heat exhaustion (sunstroke), accounting for about 60-61% of cases, heat stroke (16.2%), heat cramps (12.8%), and heat syncope (8%).
The intensifying heat waves, with temperatures reaching record highs such as 38°C in Seoul and other cities, are the primary cause of this increase. These extreme temperatures are driven by persistent high-pressure systems causing prolonged heat waves and tropical nights, especially in urban and southern regions.
The prolonged heat exposure affects vulnerable groups, notably the elderly (65+), who accounted for 31.9% of the total heat-related patients.
Additional impacts include damage to agriculture and increased food prices due to heat stress on crops and livestock.
In summary, the sharp rise in heat-related illnesses and deaths this year reflects the exceptional severity and persistence of heat waves in South Korea in 2025, with public health systems under strain from these extreme weather events.
[1] Yonhap News Agency, "Heat Wave Kills 19 in South Korea, Highest Toll in Over a Decade," August 2, 2025. [2] Korea JoongAng Daily, "South Korea's Heat Wave Causes Over 3,000 Hospital Visits," July 30, 2025. [3] The Chosun Ilbo, "Heat Wave Death Toll Rises to 19 in South Korea," August 2, 2025. [4] KDCA, "Heat-Related Illness Surveillance System Data," August 2, 2025. [5] The Korea Herald, "Heat Wave Pushes Food Prices Higher in South Korea," July 31, 2025.
- To combat the spike in heat-related illnesses, some South Korean tech companies have launched office initiatives aimed at workplace wellness, promoting regular breaks, hydration, and fitness and exercise.
- A recent study from the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, could worsen in the aging population due to the escalating number of heat-related medical conditions.
- Furthermore, mental health specialists in South Korea have observed a surge in anxiety and depression cases linked to the ongoing heat wave, emphasizing the importance of mental health in men's health during these challenging conditions.
- Womens' health organizations, meanwhile, have raised concerns about the potential impact of intense heat on skin care and reproductive health, recommending women to prioritize sun protection, stay hydrated, and avoid extreme heat exposure.
- In the face of escalating heat waves, South Korean researchers are calling for investment in health and wellness projects, particularly to develop effective strategies for mitigating the effects of chronic diseases on the aging population and addressing mental health challenges exacerbated by extreme temperatures.
