South Korea Hits 42.5°C — Highest in 122 Years — as President Declares National Disaster

South Korea recorded 42.5°C in Yangsan on August 3, 2026, the highest temperature in 122 years of observations, after the national record fell three times in one week. President Lee Jae Myung declared a national disaster, ordering power grid inspections amid surging cooling demand. Nineteen heat-related deaths have been reported; 2,025 people have fallen ill since May 15.