Amid the dual crisis of heat waves and infectious diseases

Transformation of Summer: A Warning of Climate Crisis

Summer in South Korea can no longer be viewed merely as a seasonal change. Global warming and the resulting climate change have infiltrated our daily lives, and heatwaves are approaching as a threat to survival. No longer just an isolated inconvenience, we are now facing the reality of a dual crisis, prompting us to reflect on the past, contemplate the present, and prepare for the future.

Warnings from the Past: Intensification of the Urban Heat Island Effect

In the late 20th century, South Korea experienced remarkable growth alongside urbanization and industrialization. However, the cost of this was an exacerbation of the urban heat island effect, with asphalt and concrete retaining heat and not cooling down even at night. In 2018 and 2020, numerous lives were lost due to record-breaking heat waves, and these statistics served as a warning against complacency.

Current Reality: Heatwave Beyond Predictions

As of 2025, we are facing a powerful heat wave that has surpassed past predictions. The average number of heat wave days in the summer of 2024 exceeded 35 days, with extreme temperatures experienced on multiple occasions. In particular, the number of heat-related illnesses among the population aged 80 and above has increased significantly, posing a major threat to society as a whole. Additionally, natural disasters are impacting various sectors, including agricultural collapse, power shortages, and water resource depletion.

The Threat of Infectious Diseases: Ongoing Tension

The threat of infectious diseases still remains with us. Although quarantine measures have been relaxed since COVID-19, the high temperatures and humidity of summer enhance the survival of pathogens, and close contact between people inevitably increases the risk of transmission. While the number of confirmed cases may be decreasing, the threat to vulnerable populations continues. This serves as a reminder of the importance of public health once again.

The Nature of the Crisis: The Relationship between Climate and Health

Heatwaves and infectious diseases may superficially appear to be separate issues. However, the fundamental causes are human-centered development patterns, imbalances in social infrastructure, and resource inequality. Rapid urbanization has exacerbated the urban heat island effect, while a fragile public health system acts as a catalyst for the spread of infectious diseases. This issue stands out as not just an environmental problem, but a structural societal problem.

Evolving Response: Global Cooperation and Local Communities

Fortunately, we are developing more sophisticated responses than in the past. The government and local authorities are making various efforts, such as increasing cooling centers and shade structures, strengthening heatwave text alert systems, and providing support for vulnerable households in need of cooling. In particular, community and individual participation is becoming increasingly important, and there is a need for practical small acts of solidarity to cooperate and protect our health.

Suggestions for the Future: Harmony Between Nature and Technology

The future direction must be centered on prevention and preparedness, and approaches to the climate crisis and infectious disease response should be integrated. Predictive systems utilizing artificial intelligence and big data, surveillance systems for infectious diseases, and energy-efficient urban planning are required. Ecological thinking should be realized in urban design and health policies.

Conclusion: Which summer will you choose

The changes in nature are beyond our control, but how we live within those changes is up to our choices. The past has given us warnings, and the present is a test. Heatwaves and infectious diseases are the questions posed by the times. What kind of solidarity can help us overcome this crisis? Through these questions, I hope that everyone can move forward together.