South Korea sees over 200 heatstroke cases and 3 deaths on 'start of autumn' day

South Korea is grappling with a severe heatwave, with over 200 people suffering from heat-related illnesses and three fatalities reported on August 7, the day traditionally marking the beginning of autumn, known as "Ipchu."

The national surveillance system recorded 202 heatstroke patients on that day, bringing the cumulative total for the year to 3,089. Tragically, the death toll has reached 26, already exceeding the 21 deaths recorded during the same period last year. While daily cases had dipped slightly on August 6 to 194, they surged back above 200 the following day.

Analysis of the data reveals that individuals in their 60s are most affected, accounting for 18.2% of cases. Those in their 50s, 40s, 30s, and the elderly (80+) also represent significant portions of the affected population, with those aged 65 and above making up 35.1% of all heatstroke patients. The peak hours for heatstroke incidents are typically in the afternoon, between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., when temperatures are highest. Outdoor work sites are the most common locations, representing 25.1% of cases, followed by roadsides and fields. However, a notable 25.1% of incidents also occurred indoors.