Lee orders full mobilization of resources to minimize damage from extreme heat

Seoul, August 6, marked a critical day as President Lee Jae Myung ordered a full mobilization of government resources to counteract the devastating effects of a record-breaking heat wave sweeping across South Korea. At a meeting with key ministers and local government leaders, temperatures reached a scorching 40 degrees Celsius in numerous regions, with the southeastern city of Yangsan experiencing the highest recorded temperature at 42.5 degrees Celsius.

By Wednesday, the heat wave had already claimed 21 lives and prompted thousands of hospital visits due to heat-related illnesses, according to health authorities.

Recognizing the potential for the heat wave to persist for an extended period, President Lee emphasized the necessity for a resolute and comprehensive government response. He stressed the importance of activation of all administrative powers to mitigate damage caused by the heat wave and accompanying drought. Lee directed officials to devise strategies to protect vulnerable populations, including senior citizens living alone and residents in shanty towns, as well as to ensure adequate rest periods for workers in outdoor jobs during peak heat hours.

Additionally, measures were required to safeguard livestock and crops from the adverse impacts of the extreme weather conditions.

Furthermore, President Lee called for preemptive steps to guarantee a sufficient water supply, given the worsening drought that was exacerbating the heat wave's impact in the southern parts of the country.