Record Korean peninsula heatwave sets 122-year high temperature of 42.5°C

A record heatwave is affecting the Korean peninsula, with South Korea's Yangsan recording 42.5°C on Sunday, the highest temperature in 122 years. This extreme heat has led to 14 deaths and 1,889 heat-related illnesses since mid-May. South Korean Prime Minister Han Seong-sook has ordered the mobilization of all available resources to combat the heatwave and drought risks, raising the heatwave response alert to the second-highest level. North Korea is also experiencing similar conditions, with temperatures approaching 40°C in some areas and crowded water parks in Pyongyang. Authorities are monitoring electricity consumption due to increased air conditioning use, and local governments are providing cooling shelters and water to vulnerable residents.