The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) said the first heat warning of this summer is in place for seven areas, including the cities of Icheon and Yeoju in Gyeonggi Province, Chuncheon in Gangwon Province, and the Buyeo and Uiseong areas in central Korea.

Hot weather in Seoul, South Korea.

In South Korea, a heat warning is issued when the highest temperature is forecast to be 35 degrees Celsius or higher.

The KMA also issued heat advisories for most of the rest of the country, including the capital Seoul. In total, about 71 percent, or 128, of the country's 180 areas are under the advisory, which is issued when the maximum temperature reaches 33 degrees Celsius or higher for at least two consecutive days. The advisory is also issued when significant damage is forecast due to a sudden increase in temperature or prolonged heat.

As the heat wave is forecast to last until July 3, from 11:30 a.m. on July 1, the Korean government raised the warning to level 3 in the 4-level warning system, calling for stronger measures to protect people, infrastructure and industries.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked relevant ministries and local governments to take measures to protect the elderly, homeless people, construction workers and other vulnerable groups; prevent damage to the agricultural and fishery sectors as well as ensure safety of roads and other infrastructure.

News and photos: VNA