"Charyesang Prepared at Traditional Markets Costs About 80,000 Won Less Than at Marts"

Korea Price Information, Cost Survey of Ancestral Table for a Family of Four
Excluding Some Vegetables... Up to Over 10,000 Won Difference in Fruits, Meat, and Eggs

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Saeng-hye] A recent survey revealed that preparing the Lunar New Year ancestral rites table at traditional markets can save about 80,000 KRW (38%) compared to large supermarkets.

The Korea Price Information Service, a price research organization, announced on the 18th that the cost of a Lunar New Year ancestral rites table for a family of four this year was approximately 219,000 KRW at traditional markets and about 304,000 KRW at large supermarkets. The overall cost of the Lunar New Year ancestral rites table is estimated to be lower than last year.

Prices for fruits, nuts, seafood, and meat and eggs have shown a downward trend compared to the previous year. Among them, fruit prices, which were high last year due to poor harvests, have become up to about 47% cheaper this year due to increased supply. As of the 14th, the price of apples (Busa variety, 5 pieces) at large supermarkets was 16,630 KRW, while at traditional markets it was 16,500 KRW. Pears (Shingo variety, 5 pieces) were also more than 2,000 KRW cheaper at traditional markets, priced at 12,500 KRW compared to 14,960 KRW at large supermarkets.

For meat and eggs, beef (Korean beef brisket A1+, 600g) was sold for 38,400 KRW at large supermarkets and 23,000 KRW at traditional markets, showing a difference of over 15,000 KRW. Pork (front leg for Yukjeon, 600g) was priced at 8,340 KRW at large supermarkets, which was 1,340 KRW higher than the 7,000 KRW at traditional markets.

However, some vegetables (radish, napa cabbage, zucchini) were somewhat more expensive at traditional markets compared to large supermarkets. Overall, vegetable prices rose significantly compared to last year, mainly due to supply shortages caused by the late autumn monsoon, typhoons, and early winter cold damage last year.

A representative from Korea Price Information Service stated, "Although accessibility and convenience are somewhat lower compared to large supermarkets, traditional markets generally offer lower prices and higher quality products. Purchasing Lunar New Year ancestral rites items at traditional markets is expected to be a smart way for housewives to prepare a frugal table."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.