Vacationers and local residents are flooding Jeju Island's beaches and mountain valleys to escape a summer heat wave [1].
This surge in tourism highlights the increasing reliance on natural water sources and organized coastal events to mitigate the impact of extreme summer temperatures. As urban centers become oppressive, Jeju's unique geography provides a critical refuge for those seeking relief from the heat.
People began gathering at these cooling sites as early as 8 a.m. [1]. Many have traveled from other regions, such as Namwon City in North Jeolla Province, to enjoy the coastal environment. Jo Hun-hwa, a visitor from Namwon, said the sea breeze and the weather are very good and that they want to visit again [1].
The heat wave has pushed temperatures above 30 °C [1]. To combat the warmth, visitors are utilizing both the island's coastline and its shaded interior valleys. A beach festival is currently taking place, drawing crowds to the shore for organized activities, and recreation.
For younger visitors, the attraction lies in the active nature of the coastal events. Hong Jin-hyeok, a resident of Yeon-dong in Jeju City, said they are having a lot of fun and want to ride the tubes again [1].
Local authorities and tourism operators have seen a steady stream of people seeking these natural escapes. The combination of mountain streams and ocean breezes provides two distinct ways for the public to avoid the most intense heat of the day [1].
“The sea breeze and the weather are very good and that they want to visit again.”
The concentration of visitors in Jeju's natural landscapes during peak heat underscores a growing trend of 'climate migration' for leisure. As temperature thresholds consistently exceed 30 °C, the demand for accessible, water-based cooling centers—both natural and managed—increases the seasonal pressure on Jeju's ecological infrastructure and local transport systems.
