South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday called for an emergency government response to a record-breaking heatwave. In this photo, taken Thursday, a merchant cools off with a frozen water bottle at Seoul Central Market. Photo by Yonhap
SEOUL, Aug. 6 (UPI) -- South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday ordered an all-out government response to a record-breaking heatwave that has killed 21 people and sent thousands to hospitals.
Lee issued the directive during an emergency meeting with cabinet ministers and local government leaders as the country grappled with temperatures above 104 degrees in several regions. The southeastern city of Yangsan reached 108.5 degrees Sunday, the highest temperature recorded in South Korea since modern meteorological observations began in 1904.
"We are experiencing extreme heat unlike anything seen before, continuing day after day," Lee said in opening remarks. "This kind of heatwave -- the sort we used to see only in foreign news reports -- has now become our reality."
Lee ordered an enhanced nationwide heatwave response system, directing ministries and local governments to mobilize all available personnel and resources until temperatures ease.
