South Korea Heat Wave: Temperatures Near 35°C as Govt Steps Up Protection for Vulnerable Workers

August 9, 2026

Seoul: South Korea is continuing to experience a severe heat wave, with temperatures in some regions nearing 35°C, prompting the government to step up measures to protect vulnerable outdoor workers, elderly farmers and livestock.

The country’s highest-level heat wave warning was lifted nationwide on Sunday, but authorities said the heat threat remains, with the Korea Meteorological Administration forecasting daily highs of around 35°C across most parts of the country in the coming days.

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters reviewed emergency measures to tackle the extreme heat during a meeting attended by relevant ministries and regional authorities. It urged all response units to prioritise the safety of high-risk groups, particularly migrant workers and elderly farmers.

Temperatures Near 35°C as Heat Wave Continues

Despite the lifting of the highest-level warning, some regions recorded temperatures close to 35°C on Sunday. Officials have warned that the ongoing high temperatures could continue to pose serious health risks, particularly for people working outdoors.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency reported 203 additional cases of heat-related illnesses on Sunday, taking the total number of such cases to 3,090. Three additional deaths linked to heat-related illnesses were also reported.

The latest figures have increased concerns over the impact of prolonged extreme heat on workers and elderly people, who are among the groups most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

Govt Focuses on Migrant Workers, Elderly Farmers

Kim Kwang-yong, chief of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, visited Yesan county, about 100 km south of Seoul, to inspect the working conditions of foreign seasonal farm workers and assess the impact of the heat on livestock.

The visit came after heat-related deaths involving foreign workers in Haenam, South Jeolla Province, and Hongseong, South Chungcheong Province.

Kim said language barriers can leave foreign workers vulnerable during extreme weather and asked farm owners to provide workers with sufficient water, shade and rest.

Officials also distributed heat stroke prevention manuals translated into 18 languages, along with cooling supplies.

Kim also visited local pig farms to inspect ventilation and cooling systems and assess measures being taken to protect livestock from the extreme temperatures.

South Korea Intensifies Heat Wave Response

Government ministries have strengthened their emergency response measures as the heat wave continues.

The agriculture ministry upgraded its disaster situation room to an emergency response headquarters and increased drone and vehicle patrols across farms.

The health ministry established a 24-hour emergency response team to monitor elderly people considered particularly vulnerable to the heat.

The labour ministry will conduct intensive inspections through Friday at workplaces vulnerable to extreme heat, including construction sites. Authorities will also enforce mandatory work stoppages during peak temperature periods.

With temperatures expected to remain around 35°C in many parts of South Korea, authorities have urged employers, farmers and local officials to maintain adequate heat protection measures even though the highest-level heat wave warning has been lifted nationwide.