South Korea Races to Protect Residents as Deadly Heatwave Claims 16 Lives.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has directed government agencies to strengthen emergency support for communities affected by an unprecedented heatwave that has claimed at least 16 lives across the country.

Speaking during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, President Lee urged officials to take swift action to safeguard citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, while ensuring the nation's power systems remain stable as electricity demand continues to soar due to widespread use of air conditioning.

He also stressed the need to overhaul South Korea's disaster response system, warning that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and should now be treated as a long-term national challenge.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the southeastern city of Yangsan recorded a scorching 42.5°C (108.5°F) on Sunday—the highest temperature observed in the country's 122 years of weather records.

Authorities have also issued the first-ever severe heatwave warning for parts of Seoul and neighboring Gyeonggi Province, with the alert now extended to cover the entire capital as dangerously high temperatures persist.

Officials continue to monitor the situation and are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak heat, and check on elderly and vulnerable people as the extreme weather continues.

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