South Korea heatwave drives over 200 heat‑related illness cases

Over two consecutive days (July 11‑12) more than 200 people across South Korea were treated for heat‑related illnesses after a heat‑wave warning was issued. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency recorded 115 cases on July 11 and 88 on July 12, while a separate count noted 99 emergency‑room visits in a single day.

The majority of patients (about 86 %) were outdoors—working in fields, construction sites or traveling—and 57 % suffered heat‑induced faintness or heat‑cramp. The highest numbers were reported in Gyeonggi Province (28‑20 cases), followed by Gyeongsangnam‑do, Chungcheongnam‑do and other regions; four cases occurred in Daegu.

Since the emergency‑room monitoring system began on May 15, cumulative cases have reached 741 with an estimated two deaths nationwide. Ambulance calls for heat illness have risen nearly fourfold since 2021, highlighting a growing trend. Health officials advise limiting outdoor activity, staying well‑hydrated and seeking shade or medical care if symptoms appear.