South Korea mobilizes coast guard and agriculture ministry against heat‑wave health threats

Amid a record heat wave, the Korea Coast Guard dispatched patrol vessels 321 and P‑67 to fishing boats, handing out ice‑cold water and urging crews to stay hydrated, rest in shade, avoid prolonged midday work and report any symptoms of heat illness. The coast guard also attached safety guidelines to the vessels and urged fishermen to monitor each other's health.

Agriculture Minister Song Mi‑ryeong visited a chicken farm and a lettuce greenhouse in Iksan, Jeonbuk Province, inspecting cooling pads, ventilation systems, stress‑relief agents and water‑spraying support. She emphasized that “the most important thing is farmer safety” and called on farm workers, including foreign laborers, to follow heat‑illness prevention rules such as stopping work during the hottest hours. Both actions aim to protect workers in the fishing and farming sectors from heat‑related health risks.