Fresh vegetable costs are climbing as extreme heat affects South Korea’s food sector. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs indicated that extended periods of high temperatures have led to a reduction in supplies of heat-sensitive crops. Vegetables such as spinach, cucumbers, and zucchini are particularly at risk during prolonged heatwaves. Additionally, this summer has set new national temperature records; Yangsan experienced 42.5 degrees Celsius on Aug. 2, marking South Korea’s highest temperature since consistent nationwide monitoring began in 1904. Livestock sectors have also suffered significant losses due to the extreme heat. As of Aug. 7, South Korea reported 901,602 animal fatalities, with chickens and ducks accounting for approximately 95% of these. These losses are roughly 55% of the figures recorded at the same point last year. Despite this, broiler chicken prices have remained relatively stable, with retail prices at 5,925 won per kilogram on Aug. 7—below 6,000 won for the first time since February. Intense heat affects farms and marine life Aquaculture operations have also faced heavy setbacks as coastal waters warmed. Fish farms recorded a total of 864,497 fish deaths through Aug. 7, adding strain to certain segments of South Korea’s seafood industry. During the period from July 27 to Aug. 1, flounder prices at auction averaged 22,300 won per kilogram, representing a 2.29%
