North Korea is grappling with an extraordinary summer heatwave that has severely disrupted daily routines across the nation. Official weather monitoring recorded temperatures surging to 36.7 degrees Celsius, marking the highest level registered since formal meteorological tracking began in the country. In response to the escalating conditions, state authorities launched an extensive public health awareness campaign. The government initiative offers comprehensive dietary and lifestyle guidance designed to manage body heat, with traditional dog meat soup emerging as the most prominent recommended dish alongside various hydrating foods.
Record High Temperature of 36.7 Degrees Celsius and State Advisories
According to North Korean state television, temperatures reached 36.7 degrees Celsius across multiple regions. This figure represents an all-time high in the nation's recorded climate history. Recognizing the health hazards posed by extreme weather, authorities structured a campaign that extends well beyond culinary recommendations. State media channels are instructing citizens to maintain adequate hydration by consuming water and functional beverages. Furthermore, officials have urged the public to exercise caution during outdoor physical workouts and to follow strict safety protocols while swimming or participating in outdoor recreation during peak sun hours.
The Sambok Period and Cultural Significance of Dog Meat Soup
In North Korea, the hottest segment of the summer season is known locally as Sambok, often referred to internationally as the Dog Days of Summer. Consuming dog meat soup during this specific period is a long-standing cultural custom believed to restore vital energy. On August 2, the state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun published a detailed health feature highlighting this practice. The article cited a physician from Pyongyang General Hospital who explained that dog meat soup provides essential nutrients and cooling effects during extreme heat. The report also highlighted a traditional folk proverb claiming that during Sambok, even if dog meat soup spills on one's foot, it functions like medicine, illustrating how deeply embedded the dish is in traditional health beliefs.
Samgyetang and Hydrating Traditional Culinary Options
State guidance is not limited exclusively to dog meat soup. The official news agency KCNA highlighted the health benefits of Samgyetang, a traditional chicken soup prepared by simmering whole chicken stuffed with ginseng, glutinous rice, and jujubes. Reports indicate that dining establishments across Pyongyang are witnessing increased patronage as residents seek out hot, nutrient-dense soups to counter heat fatigue. Additionally, state broadcasts have recommended natural cooling foods such as watermelon, cucumber, and mung beans, along with fish porridge and red bean porridge to sustain energy levels.
Peninsular Impact and Comparison with South Korea
The severe heatwave extends across the entire Korean peninsula. In neighbouring South Korea, intense summer conditions have resulted in more than 20 heat-related casualties reported by medical authorities. By contrast, North Korea has not released official statistics regarding heat-related illnesses or fatalities. Nevertheless, state communications continue to broadcast frequent health bulletins to prevent heat exhaustion and related medical emergencies among the civilian population.
Kim Jong Un Work Narrative and Public Gathering at Coastal Resorts
Alongside health advisories, North Korean state media has leveraged the heatwave to reinforce the leadership narrative surrounding Kim Jong Un. The coverage emphasizes his dedication to governance despite taxing environmental conditions. Rodong Sinmun recalled an inspection tour from the summer of 2013, during which Kim Jong Un visited a construction site while his clothing became drenched in sweat. When an accompanying official suggested avoiding travel in intense heat, Kim reportedly responded that critical work for the populace must proceed regardless of high temperatures. Meanwhile, state broadcasts showed crowds visiting coastal beaches and swimming facilities at the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone as well as water parks in Pyongyang to seek relief from the record heat.
