Chuseok Ancestral Rite Table at Traditional Markets Costs 236,000 Won... 13.7% Cheaper Than Large Supermarkets

Seoul Agro-Fisheries & Food Corporation Survey Shows 1.7% Decrease from Last Year

This year, the cost of preparing a Chuseok ancestral rite table at traditional markets in Seoul was calculated at 236,723 won, making it 13.7% cheaper than large supermarkets, where the cost was 274,321 won.

According to the “Chuseok Ancestral Rite Table Cost” survey released on September 28 by the Seoul Agro-Fisheries & Food Corporation (President Moon Youngpyo), the cost at traditional markets fell by 1.7% compared to last year, further highlighting their price competitiveness.

The survey analyzed the purchase costs of 34 major seasonal items for a family of six to seven across 25 locations in Seoul (16 traditional markets, 8 large supermarkets, and Garak Mall). Traditional markets offered lower prices on a greater number of items than large supermarkets, especially for fruits, forest products, and various greens. In particular, fruits and vegetables such as apples, dried persimmons, jujubes, bracken, and napa cabbage saw price declines, easing the financial burden on consumers.

Garak Mall at Garak Market also offered lower prices, with a total cost of 215,940 won-8.8% less than traditional markets and 21.3% less than large supermarkets-making both traditional markets and Garak Mall economical alternatives for Chuseok holiday shopping this year.

The Seoul Agro-Fisheries & Food Corporation forecasted that fruit prices would remain stable this year due to average production levels, but noted that prices for some vegetables and livestock products could fluctuate due to reduced shipments and slaughter volumes.

Meanwhile, to promote the consumption of agricultural and livestock products and stabilize shopping basket prices, the city will hold an event at Garak Mall, offering Onnuri gift certificates to customers who purchase a certain amount of domestic agricultural or livestock products. This event will run from October 1 to 5, but may end early if the budget is exhausted. Customers will receive a 10,000 won refund for purchases over 34,000 won, and a 20,000 won refund for purchases over 67,000 won.

Moon Youngpyo, President of the Seoul Agro-Fisheries & Food Corporation, stated, “We will thoroughly prepare and support the smooth distribution of various agricultural, fishery, and livestock products during the Chuseok peak season,” adding, “We will continue our efforts to stabilize prices in a way that citizens can truly feel.”

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