• South Korea's heatwave has resulted in 19 deaths this summer.
• The highest temperature recorded was 42.5°C, marking a 122-year high.
• President Lee Jae Myung called for urgent support for affected communities.
• The whole of Seoul is under a severe heat alert as conditions are expected to worsen.
• Extreme weather is becoming more frequent due to climate change impacts.

South Korea is experiencing a severe heatwave that has led to the deaths of 19 individuals, raising public health alarms. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, from May 15 through August 3, a total of 2,221 people suffered heat-related illnesses, with 19 fatalities reported. President Lee Jae Myung has called this situation a "national disaster" and has urged authorities to enhance support for the affected individuals, particularly as the demand for air conditioning spikes with rising temperatures, according to Channel News Asia and South China Morning Post.

This alarming heatwave marks the highest temperature in 122 years, with the southeastern city of Yangsan reaching an unprecedented 42.5°C (108.5°F). The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) issued its very first heatwave warning for Seoul and neighboring regions, extending it to the entire capital shortly thereafter. President Lee emphasized the need to overhaul the national disaster response system, as extreme weather occurrences appear to be becoming more commonplace due to man-made climate change, according to India Times and Channel News Asia.

With temperatures soaring, the KMA has issued life-threatening heat alerts across the region. These alerts recommend suspending outdoor activities, particularly in vulnerable areas where residents lack access to air conditioning. Local officials have set up emergency shelters equipped with cooling appliances and are urging the public to take precautions against the heat. The community has seen temporary relocations for those without sufficient cooling systems, further highlighting the disparities in heat exposure faced by different socioeconomic groups, according to Channel News Asia, Channel News Asia, and South China Morning Post.