SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA / RankWire.AI / – Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp. reports that prices for fresh vegetables have climbed significantly in South Korea due to ongoing extreme heat conditions that have hindered shipments and harmed agricultural yields nationwide. On August 7, data indicated spinach at 1,978 won per 100 grams, representing an increase of 152.3% compared to the previous month. Meanwhile, ten cucumbers cost 8,313 won, up 54.8%. Additionally, blue lettuce saw a 41.7% rise, and zucchini increased by 46.6% to reach 1,504 won.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs attributed these price hikes to persistent high temperatures that adversely impact heat-sensitive crops. Vegetables like spinach, cucumbers, and zucchini tend to thrive in cooler weather, but the extreme heat slows their growth and reduces harvestable quantities. South Korea has experienced extraordinary temperatures during this heat wave. For example, Yangsan, in the southeastern part of the country, hit 42.5 degrees Celsius on August 2, the highest temperature ever recorded nationally since weather records began in 1904.
The intense heat has also caused considerable losses among livestock farms, with 901,602 animal deaths reported by August 7. Poultry, including chickens and ducks, accounted for approximately 95% of these fatalities. Officials noted that this figure is about 55% of the livestock mortality recorded during the same period last year. On August 7, the retail price of broiler chicken was 5,925 won per kilogram, dropping below 6,000 won for the first time since February.
Heat Damage Extends to Farms and Fisheries
Rising water temperatures have added further pressure on South Korea’s food industry. Aquaculture farms have documented 864,497 fish deaths through August 7 as coastal waters warmed. The average auction price for one kilogram of flounder reached 22,300 won between July 27 and August 1, marking a 2.29% weekly increase and a 13.2% rise compared to the same period last year. By August 7, high-temperature warnings for coastal waters expanded to 17 regions.
In response, authorities have implemented measures to stabilize food supplies affected by the heat. The government has increased broiler chicken imports and promoted discounts on fish at major retail outlets. Support efforts for agriculture include the provision of misting equipment, shade coverings, and ventilation systems for farms facing extreme heat. Additionally, officials strengthened the agricultural disaster response framework starting August 7 and designated a special management period for heat and drought, as damages continued to mount across farming areas.
Spike in Fresh Food Prices Contrasts July Inflation Trends
The recent surge in vegetable prices contrasts with the broader inflation trend that showed signs of easing in July. South Korea’s consumer price index was recorded at 119.77, based on a 2020 benchmark of 100. Prices fell by 0.2% from June but rose by 2.8% compared to July 2025. The inflation rate in July slowed from 3.2% in June. The latest retail vegetable price figures, dated August 7, reflect conditions beyond the scope of the July consumer inflation report.
The increase in food prices highlights the immediate economic impact of South Korea’s record-breaking heat on fresh produce and aquaculture. Among the most impacted vegetables, spinach experienced the largest monthly increase, while cucumbers, lettuce, and zucchini also became notably more expensive. Livestock and fish farms reported hundreds of thousands of heat-related losses, although chicken retail prices stayed below recent peaks. Government measures to ensure supply and retail discounts are being deployed alongside emergency agricultural programs as the extreme summer weather continues to affect food production.