South Korea acts to ease grocery burden ahead of kimchi season

South Korea will release large volumes of key kimchi ingredients to contain seasonal food costs, as the government moves to ease pressure on household grocery budgets.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol said the state will supply more than 47,000 tons of napa cabbage and radishes during kimchi-making season, along with an additional 5,000 tons of chili peppers, garlic, and onions The government will also allocate ₩50 billion (approx. USD $40 million) to nationwide discount campaigns, offering price cuts of up to 50% on kimchi vegetables and other food products.

The measures come as consumer inflation reached 2.4% in October, driven by unstable weather, increased travel costs, and higher agricultural prices. Koo stressed the need to remain vigilant, noting that sudden cold snaps and weather disruptions could exert further pressure.

source: biz.chosun.com

photo: maangchi.com