South Korea's heatwave claims 19 lives this summer

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South Korea's summer heat has claimed 19 lives so far this year, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, as the country continues to endure an intense heatwave.

The agency said a total of 2,221 people suffered heat-related illnesses between May 15 and August 3, with 19 deaths recorded during the period.

Earlier, President Lee Jae Myung instructed authorities to strengthen support measures for people affected by the ongoing record-breaking heat.

Seoul remained under the country's highest-level heat alert on Tuesday. The warning is issued when the heat index is forecast to reach 38 degrees Celsius or temperatures are expected to climb to 39 degrees Celsius or higher.

The national weather agency warned that extreme and life-threatening heat conditions were expected to continue.

South Korea recorded its highest-ever temperature on Sunday when the southeastern city of Yangsan registered 42.5 degrees Celsius.