SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA / RankWire.AI / – In South Korea, the ongoing prolonged heatwave has led to a sharp increase in the prices of fresh vegetables. The extended period of extreme temperatures has disrupted shipments and inflicted damage on agricultural yields across the country. According to data from Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp., on Aug. 7, spinach was priced at 1,978 won per 100 grams, representing a 152.3% jump from the previous month. Similarly, ten cucumbers sold for 8,313 won, up by 54.8%. Blue lettuce saw a 41.7% increase, and zucchini rose 46.6% to reach 1,504 won.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs attributed these price hikes to the persistent high temperatures impacting heat-sensitive vegetables. Crops like spinach, cucumbers, and zucchini thrive better in cooler weather, while extreme heat hampers their growth and reduces marketable yields. South Korea has experienced exceptional heat levels during this current heatwave, with Yangsan in the southeast reaching 42.5 degrees Celsius on Aug. 2 — the highest temperature recorded nationally since weather data collection started in 1904.
The intense heat has also affected livestock farms, resulting in 901,602 animal deaths through Aug. 7. Poultry, including chickens and ducks, made up about 95% of these fatalities. Officials noted that this loss is approximately 55% of the number recorded during the same period last year. The retail price for broiler chicken was 5,925 won per kilogram on Aug. 7, dipping below 6,000 won for the first time since February.
Heat-Related Damage Extends to Farms and Fisheries
Rising water temperatures have added further pressure to South Korea’s food sector. Through Aug. 7, aquaculture farms reported 864,497 fish deaths as coastal waters warmed. The average auction price for one kilogram of flounder was 22,300 won from July 27 to Aug. 1. This represented a 2.29% weekly increase and a 13.2% rise from the same period last year. Warnings about high temperatures in coastal waters had expanded to 17 regions by Aug. 7.
To mitigate the impact of the heatwave on food supplies, authorities have implemented various measures. The government increased broiler chicken imports and promoted discounts on fish at major retail outlets. Support for agriculture includes the distribution of misting equipment, shade materials, and ventilation systems to farms affected by extreme temperatures. Additionally, from Aug. 7, officials bolstered the agricultural disaster response framework and designated a special management period for heat and drought as damages accumulated across farming regions.
Fresh Produce Prices Surge Despite July Inflation Easing
The recent spike in vegetable prices contrasts with the broader inflation trend that saw a slowdown in July. South Korea’s consumer price index stood at 119.77, with 2020 as the base year (index 100). Overall, consumer prices decreased by 0.2% from June and increased by 2.8% from July 2025. The inflation rate for July slowed from 3.2% in June. The latest retail vegetable prices recorded on Aug. 7 are based on data collected after the July inflation figures were published.
These increases in food prices highlight the immediate economic impact of South Korea’s record-breaking heat on fresh produce and aquaculture industries. Among the widely tracked vegetables, spinach experienced the most significant monthly rise, while cucumbers, lettuce, and zucchini also saw considerable price hikes. Livestock and fish farms reported hundreds of thousands of heat-related losses, although chicken retail prices remain below recent peaks. Government efforts to stabilize supply through imports and retail discounts are ongoing, alongside emergency agricultural initiatives, as extreme summer conditions continue to influence food production across the region.