South Korea's food prices surge as staples and dining out grow costlier

From rice to burgers, South Koreans are paying more at every meal. Can households keep up with the relentless climb in food prices?

, and Administrator

2026 February 24 . 1:30 PM

1 min read

The image shows a poster with the text "Food: Buy it with thought, cook it with care, use less... — The image shows a poster with the text "Food: Buy it with thought, cook it with care, use less wheat & meat, serve just enough, use what is left, don't waste it" printed on it.

South Korea's food prices surge as staples and dining out grow costlier

Food prices in South Korea are climbing sharply, affecting both groceries and dining out. Key staples like rice, beef, and chicken have seen significant increases over the past year. Fast-food chains, including McDonald's and Burger King, have also raised menu prices in response to higher ingredient costs.

The cost of eating out has risen as essential ingredients become more expensive. Rice prices have jumped by 15.8% since 2025, sitting 16.5% above typical levels. Beef, chicken, and pork belly have followed a similar trend, with pork belly alone up by 3.8% year-on-year.

Imported chicken has surged by 27.6%, adding pressure to food businesses. Agricultural and livestock products have seen broad increases, with livestock up by 4.3% and fruit by 8.3%. Even popular street food has been affected—Seoul's average gimbap price rose by 7.4%.

Fast-food chains have adjusted their menus to cope. McDonald's Korea increased prices on select burgers and drinks by 100 to 400 won. Burger King followed, raising some items by 100 to 200 won. The changes reflect wider inflation in food supply chains, though no clear data links these hikes to recent tariff cuts on US beef imports.

Higher ingredient costs are pushing up prices across South Korea's food sector. Restaurants and fast-food outlets are passing expenses to customers, while staples like rice and meat remain significantly more expensive than last year. The trend suggests continued pressure on household budgets in the coming months.