South Korea faces record 39°C heatwave as climate change raises heat‑stress risk

South Korea is experiencing an extreme heatwave, with Seoul forecast to reach 39 °C and surrounding regions reporting temperatures of 38‑39 °C. The Korea Meteorological Administration has issued a severe heat warning for the capital area, Jeju, and parts of the western and southern coasts, noting that nighttime temperatures will remain above 25 °C, creating persistent tropical‑night conditions.

A government climate‑scenario analysis projects that, without emissions cuts, the number of days with heat‑stress indices above the dangerous threshold could rise from 1.8 days per year today to more than 50 days annually by the late 21st century. Under a high‑carbon pathway, average wet‑bulb globe temperature could exceed 33 °C, making outdoor exposure hazardous even for inactive persons. The report highlights regional variations, with Jeju and the southern coast already experiencing higher humidity‑driven heat indices.

Authorities warn of heightened risks of heat‑related illnesses, landslides, and flooding as heavy rains are expected to follow the heatwave in the eastern coastal mountains.