The Korea Meteorological Administration issued an extreme heat warning for Gyeongju and most of South Korea as a severe heatwave intensifies [1, 2, 3].
This spike in temperature follows the end of the monsoon season, creating a dangerous cycle of high daytime heat and tropical nights. The intensity of the current wave threatens public health and infrastructure across multiple provinces.
Weather caster Yoo Da-hyun said the heat is persisting day and night as the monsoon season concludes [1, 2]. In Gyeongju, the temperature reached 39°C yesterday [2]. Because of this peak, officials issued a "폭염 중대경보" — the highest tier of extreme heat warning — for the city [1].
The heat is not limited to a single region. Much of the country is experiencing feels-like temperatures of around 35°C this weekend [3]. The timing coincides with Jungbok, one of the three hottest days of the lunar calendar, which typically sees peak summer temperatures in the region.
An anchor for YTN News said the sweltering heat will continue through the weekend [1]. The KMA continues to monitor the situation as the combination of high humidity and temperature increases the risk of heat-related illnesses. Residents in affected provinces are advised to limit outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours to avoid heatstroke.
Government officials are coordinating responses to manage the extreme conditions in Gyeongju and surrounding areas. The highest tier of warning indicates that the weather service expects temperatures to remain dangerously high for a prolonged period [1].
“"Gyeongju reached 39 degrees yesterday," said weather caster Yoo Da-hyun.”
The issuance of a highest-tier heat warning suggests that the 2026 summer peak is exceeding seasonal norms. By combining record-high temperatures in Gyeongju with widespread 'feels-like' heat across the peninsula, the KMA is signaling a systemic public health risk rather than a localized weather event.
