South Korea Sees Sharp Rise in Heat-Related ER Visits Amid Hotter Summer Forecast

South Korea is grappling with a sharp rise in heat-related illnesses early in the summer season. As of June 16, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) reported 300 emergency room visits for heat-related ailments, a notable increase from the 192 cases recorded during the same period in 2025. The early onset of these conditions underscores the growing public health challenge posed by rising temperatures.

The majority of cases involved heat exhaustion, accounting for over half of the patients, followed by heatstroke and heat syncope. While the illnesses are affecting a broad spectrum of the population, including those in their 30s and 40s, individuals aged 65 and older represent a significant risk group, making up about 30 percent of all patients. This highlights the continued vulnerability of older adults to extreme heat.

This surge in heat-related illnesses follows an unusually warm spring, which saw the second-highest average temperature recorded since nationwide observations began in 1973. The KDCA confirmed the nation's first heat-related death of the year on May 15, involving an elderly man.

Looking ahead, weather authorities forecast hotter-than-average conditions to persist through the summer months. The Korea Meteorological Administration projects a 60 percent likelihood of higher temperatures in June and July, and a 50 percent chance for August. Heat wave warnings have already been issued for parts of North Gyeongsang province, signaling the immediate need for public awareness and preventative measures.

In response to the escalating heat, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has initiated a campaign encouraging employees and residents to wear lighter clothing to work, promoting comfort and potentially reducing heat-related stress.