Seoul, August 2023 — Extreme weather has triggered a sharp surge in the prices of key agricultural products in South Korea, with watermelons now costing a staggering 33,337 won (approximately 173 RMB) each, according to data released by the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation.
As of August 1, the price of a single watermelon has risen by 17.6% year-on-year, while the retail price of a head of napa cabbage has skyrocketed to 6,114 won (31.7 RMB), marking a 68% increase from the previous month.
Causes of the Price Surge
The dramatic price hikes stem from a once-in-a-century extreme weather event that struck South Korea in July. Heavy rainfall submerged watermelon greenhouses in key growing regions like North Jeolla Province, with floodwaters reaching 50 cm deep in Iksan City, destroying 60-70% of cultivation facilities.
Just as farmers began recovering from the floods, a prolonged heatwave further delayed the growth cycle of surviving watermelon crops by 20 days, while also reducing sugar content by 2 degrees.
Supply-Demand Imbalance Drives Prices Up
With daily consumption demand at 220,000 watermelons but supply falling short by 80,000 units, the severe shortage has pushed prices to historic highs.
Broader Impact on Food Prices
The extreme weather has also disrupted other crops, including:
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Napa cabbage (essential for kimchi), now 68% more expensive than last month.
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Peppers and other vegetables, facing similar supply constraints.
Government Response
Authorities are monitoring the situation, but with climate change increasing the frequency of such extreme weather events, long-term solutions for agricultural resilience are urgently needed.
For now, South Korean consumers must brace for higher grocery bills as the summer heat continues to strain food supplies.
