Could 2025 Be South Korea's Second Hottest Year Ever?
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Synopsis
In a startling revelation, South Korea's weather agency reports that 2025 was the nation's second hottest year since records began. With a series of unprecedented heatwaves and rising average temperatures, the impacts pose significant questions for the nation's climate future.
Key Takeaways
- 2025 marked South Korea's second hottest year on record.
- The average temperature was 13.7 degrees Celsius.
- Many months had temperatures exceeding long-term averages.
- A total of 29.7 heat wave days were recorded.
- South Korea experienced 16.4 tropical nights last year.
Seoul, Jan 6 (NationPress) According to the weather agency, last year marked South Korea's second hottest year recorded, primarily due to a prolonged spell of hot weather that extended from early summer into autumn. The nation experienced an average temperature of 13.7 degrees Celsius in 2025, which is 0.8 degrees Celsius lower than 2024 and equal to 2023, securing its position as the second hottest year since the country began systematic weather recording in 1973, as reported by the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA).
The temperature recorded last year was 1.2 degrees Celsius above the long-term average of 12.5 degrees Celsius for the period between 1991 and 2020, according to Yonhap news agency. Except for February and May, every month last year had average temperatures exceeding the long-term averages, with both June and October achieving the highest monthly averages ever documented.
The KMA linked the prolonged heat to the North Pacific High, which intensified earlier than usual and maintained its strength for longer periods than in prior years. This pressure system's proximity to the nation resulted in elevated temperatures as hot, humid air infiltrated the region.
Last year saw an astounding 29.7 days categorized under a nationwide heat wave, with daily highs reaching 33 degrees Celsius or more, substantially above the historical average of just 11 days. Furthermore, the country experienced 16.4 tropical nights, compared to the long-term average of 6.6 nights. A tropical night is defined as a night where temperatures do not fall below 25 degrees Celsius.
In the eastern mountainous province of Gangwon, Daegwallyeong recorded a temperature of 33.1 degrees Celsius on July 26, marking the first instance of a heat wave being noted at the 772-meter mountain pass since weather observations began in 1971.
Additionally, the average sea surface temperature of surrounding waters reached 17.7 degrees Celsius, recording the second highest level in the past decade. The nation also experienced 1,325.6 millimeters of rainfall last year, closely aligning with the long-term average of 1,331.7 mm.
Point of View
I believe the weather agency's report underscores a critical and pressing issue that demands attention. The record-breaking temperatures are not just numbers; they signal a shift in our climate that we must address collectively. The implications could extend far beyond the weather, affecting our economy, health, and future generations.
NationPress
08/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors contributed to South Korea's record temperatures in 2025?
The prolonged heat was primarily due to the North Pacific High system, which intensified earlier and lasted longer than usual, allowing hot and humid air to dominate the region.
How does 2025's temperature compare to previous years?
The average temperature of 13.7 degrees Celsius in 2025 is 0.8 degrees lower than in 2024 but ties with 2023, marking it as the second hottest year since 1973.
What is a tropical night?
A tropical night occurs when nighttime temperatures remain above 25 degrees Celsius, and South Korea experienced 16.4 such nights last year.
What were the rainfall levels like in 2025?
The country recorded 1,325.6 millimeters of rainfall in 2025, which is close to the long-term average of 1,331.7 mm.
What implications do these temperature records have for South Korea?
The rising temperatures could have far-reaching effects on agriculture, health, and the environment, necessitating urgent discussions on climate action.
