Extreme heat deaths have claimed several lives across North Korea’s rural provinces as temperatures soar during critical farming operations. Despite longstanding work restrictions during peak hours, sources reveal that workers still face deadly conditions in the fields.
On July 10, two individuals died while tending to private farmland. One victim, a man in his 50s from Jaeryong county in South Hwanghae, and another, a woman in her 60s from Goksan county in North Hwanghae, collapsed while weeding. Temperatures exceeded 35 degrees Celsius (95°F) at the time.
Although farms officially discourage labor between noon and 3 p.m., many people still work through that window. They often hope to improve their harvests and protect their limited livelihoods. Elderly and malnourished individuals are especially vulnerable to the heat.
A local source noted that even walking in the midday sun can be dangerous. Yet, people continue pushing themselves, driven by fear of food shortages and personal failure.
Earlier this month, another tragic case occurred in Kilju county, North Hamgyong province. A man in his 50s died after working four hours without head protection. His work unit had been dispatched for a so-called “weeding combat” mission under the intense sun.
Many in his group felt dizzy but continued to work in order to meet their daily quotas. The man collapsed and was rushed to a local hospital, but doctors confirmed his death was due to acute heatstroke.
This case triggered strong backlash against local agricultural authorities. Critics argue that farm leaders ignored weather warnings and failed to implement basic safety protocols. As a result, the county’s agricultural committee launched an investigation into possible misconduct.
Officials are now considering administrative action against farm heads who failed to adjust working conditions. Recommendations include expanding access to drinking water, shade, and altering work hours to avoid dangerous heat levels.
Nevertheless, skepticism remains among farmworkers. Higher authorities routinely ignored past heat directives, some people say. One worker commented that farm officials tell struggling farmers to treat their suffering like a political mission.
In conclusion, extreme heat deaths in North Korea point to systemic failures. Unless officials enforce effective safety measures on the ground, serious risks will continue to threaten more rural workers.
