Busan, Ulsan, and the Gyeongnam region have experienced their hottest early July on record, with temperatures shattering historical highs dating back over a century.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, Busan reached 34.8°C on July 8, the highest for early July since 1904, following 34.0°C on July 7.
Miryang saw a scorching 39.2°C on the 7th, also setting a new early-July record.
This extreme heat follows the second-earliest end to the rainy season on record and a heat wave warning issued nearly a month earlier than last year.
The first week of July marked an unprecedented streak in the Bu-Ul-Gyeong region, with temperatures consistently exceeding 35°C.
Nationwide, similar trends were recorded, with Seoul (37.8°C), Incheon (35.6°C), and other major cities also experiencing their highest early-July temperatures since weather records began.
Citizens across the region are already feeling the strain. Emergency rooms have reported a rise in heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration, particularly among the elderly and outdoor workers.
Local governments have extended the hours of air-conditioned “cooling shelters,” while schools and childcare centers are limiting outdoor activities.
In many neighborhoods, energy use has surged as residents rely heavily on air conditioning, raising concerns over power grid stability.
The Busan Environment Corporation is also operating water-spraying vehicles on 157 km of major roads to reduce urban heat and dust.
So far, about 1,800 tons of water have been sprayed. Meanwhile, the Busan Metropolitan City Office of Education has strengthened heatwave response measures at schools, including flexible air conditioning use, adjusting school hours, switching to remote classes, and operating a special task force through the end of September.
