
Despite the fall harvest, the price of rice in North Korean markets is skyrocketing. A kilogram now costs over 7,000 North Korean won in Hyesan, Ryanggang province – a new record. This surge in food prices indicates North Koreans are struggling as the economy worsens.
Daily NK’s latest market survey shows rice prices climbing across major cities. In Pyongyang, a kilo sold for 6,530 won on Oct. 13, up 2% from two weeks prior. Sinuiju saw similar levels, with rice at 6,580 won per kilo, a 1.5% increase.
Hyesan had the highest prices, exceeding 7,000 won – levels not seen since a COVID-19 lockdown in June 2021. The average price across Pyongyang, Sinuiju and Hyesan hit 6,703 won, the highest since Daily NK began tracking in 2009.
Corn prices remained relatively stable, with some regional differences. In Pyongyang, corn rose slightly to 3,100 won per kilo. However, prices dipped in Sinuiju and Hyesan to 3,120 and 3,200 won respectively. Despite small decreases, corn still costs over 3,000 won in these cities.
Unlike previous years, the fall corn harvest hasn’t notably lowered prices. Compared to last October, rice prices are up 33.1% and corn up 17%.
A North Hamgyong source told Daily NK that families are cutting rice consumption and eating more “corn porridge” made with wilted vegetables: “I thought food would improve in fall, but rice is rare now. Some rural families are starving despite the harvest. Armed soldiers guard granaries, so farmers can’t take even handfuls for themselves.”
The Daily NK works with a network of sources in North Korea, China, and elsewhere. For security reasons, their identities remain anonymous.
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