South Korea Reports 198 Heat Illnesses in One Day; Death Toll Reaches 21

South Korea is grappling with a severe heatwave, with 198 new cases of heat-related illnesses reported on July 4 alone. The cumulative number of suspected heatstroke deaths has climbed to 21, exceeding the total recorded for the same period last year. This surge highlights the escalating danger posed by the extreme temperatures gripping the nation.

The latest figures from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's emergency room surveillance system indicate that the majority of heatstroke patients were male, accounting for 77.1% of cases. Those aged 65 and older represented the largest demographic group (33.8%), followed by individuals in their 60s (18.4%) and 50s (15.4%). The most common conditions reported were heat exhaustion (61.7%), followed by heatstroke (16.8%), heat cramps (11.5%), and heat syncope (8.6%).

Analysis of the incident locations reveals that most occurred outdoors, with outdoor workplaces (25.6%) and fields (13.3%) being the most frequent sites. Simple laborers constituted the largest occupational group among the victims (20.9%). The KCDC urges the public to avoid outdoor activities and strenuous work during the hottest parts of the day, even if not feeling thirsty, and to drink water frequently, especially when heatwave advisories are in effect.

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When a heatwave warning is issued, refrain from outdoor activities and work during the hottest hours of the day and drink water frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty.