In France, a record heat wave has resulted in over 1,000 excess deaths, prompting reactions from South Korean netizens. Online discussions revealed sentiments such as, "Now I understand why Europeans love summer," along with various opinions on climate and air conditioning culture.
As the death toll from the heat wave rises, the installation of air conditioning in public facilities has become a key issue in France.
According to the French National Public Health Agency, this year, excess deaths related to the heat wave have surpassed 1,000, with approximately 85% of those affected being seniors aged 65 and older. Deaths at home have increased by about 40% compared to last year.
In response, the far-right National Rally party has called for widespread installation of air conditioning in hospitals and schools. Conversely, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the leftist France Unbowed party, stated, "Absolutely not," arguing that air conditioning only exacerbates carbon emissions and climate change.
Following this news, a post titled "Now I understand why foreigners have a high preference for summer" appeared on a South Korean online community.
The author expressed, "I used to find it hard to understand why people abroad liked summer," adding, "It turns out that their summers were simply more pleasant weather-wise."
The post continued, noting that Europeans enjoy sunbathing in parks during much cooler summers, while Koreans tend to stay indoors and apply sunscreen during the hot months. The author speculated that if Koreans experienced European weather, they might also advocate for reducing air conditioning use and discussing environmental issues.
The post resonated with many, comparing the oppressive heat often experienced in Korea during summer with the more favorable climate in Europe.
One netizen commented, "It was just nice and cool weather," suggesting that those who previously discussed environmental concerns regarding air conditioning might now realize that "people come first" as heat-related deaths rise.
Another user remarked, "It’s no wonder they liked summer back then, given the lower temperatures and humidity. With weather like we have in Korea now, I’d be fine with summer all year round. Mornings and evenings are so refreshing," adding, "Low humidity is really important, even in the heat. That kind of weather is spring, not summer."
Criticism of the French political response also emerged.
Some netizens expressed frustration, stating, "People are dying, and carbon emissions are the problem?" and noted that the most affected are the elderly, children, and the underprivileged, questioning the focus solely on environmental issues. Others suggested that politicians opposing air conditioning likely use it in their own lives.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.