[DigitalToday reporter Jin-ho Lee] Ryu Je-myeong (류제명), second vice minister at South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT, encouraged postal workers carrying out deliveries during a heatwave.

Ryu visited Cheongju Post Office on Tuesday to directly support delivery work and inspect on-site safety management.

Ryu checked special summer safety measures including adjusting delivery volumes depending on the level of heatwave alerts, use of the right to suspend delivery work, minimizing outdoor work between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. when people are vulnerable to heat, keeping cooling items and drinking water on hand, and an emergency response system in case of heat-related illness.

The Korea Meteorological Administration has issued a 'heatwave severe warning' based on a perceived temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or higher this year, and postal workers are facing major difficulties in carrying out their duties amid the heat.

Ryu said, "I sincerely thank you for your hard work and dedication to providing postal services even during the hottest season." He added, "With safety and health as the top priority, please use the right to suspend delivery work in a timely manner when necessary, including when a heatwave severe warning is in effect."