Seoul recorded a daytime high of 31.5 °C on Thursday, marking the hottest weather the city has seen so far this year [1].
This early surge in temperature disrupts seasonal norms and signals a premature start to summer heat that could impact public health and energy demand. The South Korean Meteorological Administration expects these conditions to persist into early next week [1].
Kang Hyemi, a forecaster for the South Korean Meteorological Administration, said the heat is driven by a high-pressure system aloft [1]. This system has created clear skies and strong sunshine, which combined with easterly winds crossing the Taebaek Mountains to produce hot and dry conditions across the western regions of the country [1].
The temperature disparity between the east and west coasts was stark. While Seoul reached 31.5 °C [1], Yeoju in Gyeonggi Province saw even higher temperatures, reaching 33.3 °C [1]. In contrast, eastern coastal cities remained significantly cooler. Sokcho recorded a temperature of 17.4 °C [1], and Gangneung reached 19.7 °C [1]. Other eastern regions, including Daegu, saw temperatures around 25 °C [1].
Local reporters said that the combination of clear skies and intense sunlight has brought a premature summer feel to the region. The heat is not expected to break immediately, as the current atmospheric patterns are projected to maintain the warmth through the beginning of next week [1].
“Seoul recorded a daytime high of 31.5 °C, marking the hottest weather the city has seen so far this year.”
The significant temperature gap between the western and eastern regions demonstrates the localized impact of the Taebaek Mountains and specific wind patterns. When high-pressure systems trap heat in the west, it can lead to premature seasonal shifts that stress urban infrastructure and agricultural planning before the official summer season begins.
