"We Can't Survive Without Parasols": Construction Workers Struggle in Heatwave

"Moving the parasol around is a chore in itself, but we simply cannot survive without it."

On the afternoon of the 30th, as heatwave warnings were issued for most parts of the country, a large parasol stood on one side of a blazing construction site in downtown Sokcho, Gangwon Province.

Workers briefly stepped into the shade to cool off with iced water before heading back into the active construction zone.

A single small parasol served as their only refuge from the scorching heat.

Their work clothes were already soaked through with sweat, and droplets rolling down their faces continuously dripped onto the ground.

Rebars and equipment were heated up so intensely by the sun that it was difficult to touch them barehanded for long.

A worker met at the site said, "Even a slight movement leaves my entire body drenched in sweat," adding, "We constantly repeat the cycle of resting in the shade and going back to work."

"Because our work zones keep shifting, we have to move the parasol accordingly," the worker continued. "Setting it up and moving it is cumbersome, but without shade, it is too hard to endure, so we have no choice."

Another worker said, "By afternoon, the sunlight feels as stinging as fire. A single parasol makes all the difference in how it feels. We need the shade, even for a moment, to keep working."

The laborers repeatedly folded and unfolded the parasol every time their work area changed.

Similar scenes were easily spotted at other construction sites across downtown Sokcho.

A small patch of shade at midday has become essential for maintaining stamina.

As the heatwave continues, relevant authorities are repeatedly urging people to refrain from outdoor activities and work during peak daytime hours and to take sufficient rests to prevent heat-related illnesses.

However, the reality at construction sites is that it is not easy to follow these guidelines because schedules and deadlines must be met.

On the 29th in Goseong, Gangwon Province, a worker in their 40s collapsed and died after resting from finishing a residential roof construction.

Authorities are investigating the possible connection to the heatwave.

Construction did not stop despite the extreme heat.

Entrusting their bodies briefly to the small shade created by the parasol, the laborers headed back into the searing work site, continuing their battle against the midsummer heat.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.