Food
Dining prices in Busan rise over 5% as household costs increase
haps Magazine Korea
May 11, 2026
(Photo courtesy of haps Magazine Korea)
Dining prices in Busan have risen by an average of about 5% over the past year, adding pressure on household spending during May’s peak family season.
According to the Korea Consumer Agency’s price portal, the average price of eight major dining items increased 5.4% year-on-year as of March. All categories recorded price increases.
Jajangmyeon and gimbap saw the sharpest rises at 8.9%, with jajangmyeon reaching an average of 7,000 won for the first time.
Other increases included kimchi stew meals (+7.3%), bibimbap (+6.1%), pork belly (+4.1%), kalguksu (+2.7%), samgyetang (+2.6%), and naengmyeon (+2.5%).
The rise outpaced Seoul, where the same items increased by an average of 3.9% over the same period.
Higher labor and utility costs, along with growing global uncertainties, have contributed to increased food prices. Several major franchise brands have also raised menu prices this year, adding to the burden on consumers.
Authorities have introduced temporary discounts of up to 50% on selected agricultural and seafood products in an effort to ease inflation through next month.