The prolonged heat wave through September, combined with recent record-breaking heavy rains, has caused severe damage to crops, including key staples like rice, vegetables, strawberries, and tomatoes.

Concerns are rising that the “golden apple crisis” from earlier this year may extend to more crops, with retail prices for fruits and vegetables already increasing.

In Gyeongnam, a major strawberry-producing region, farmers delayed planting due to extreme heat and heavy rain, raising fears of mold and stunted growth.

Daejo tomato farms also suffered major losses, with flood damage devastating seedlings planted for early January shipments.

Additionally, persimmons, apples, and pears faced significant damage, either from sunburn or underdevelopment.

Local governments report widespread destruction to rice and vegetable fields, with over 2,400 hectares affected in Busan and Gyeongnam.

Consumers are worried about rising prices, as wholesale costs for premium fruits like apples have already surged, signaling a potential repeat of past agricultural crises.