South Korea to raise electricity and city gas prices amid high inflation and cost of living

Photo Courtesy Channel News Asia

South Korea announced today that it will increase electricity prices by 5.3% in an effort to partly account for rising generation costs. This decision, initially slated for implementation on April 1, was postponed by over a month due to concerns about the potential impact on already high inflation rates and the cost of living. This will be the second electricity price hike this year, following a 9.5% increase implemented at the beginning of the year reports Channel News Asia.

The administration of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who recently marked his first year in office with low approval ratings, is facing a delicate balance between addressing the mounting losses of utility companies and the growing burden on households affected by rising living costs. Energy Minister Lee Chang-yang expressed his empathy for the public’s concerns during his announcement of the decision, stating that he felt “heavy-hearted about the burden and concern coming from the price increases”.

Korea Electric Power Corp (KEPCO), the state-run electricity giant, reported an operating loss of 6.2 trillion won (US$4.69 billion) for the first quarter of this year, following a staggering 32.6 trillion won loss for the entirety of last year. In addition to the electricity price hike, the ministry has also announced a 5.3% increase in city gas prices for households, with both price adjustments becoming effective on Tuesday.

Inflation in South Korea has been gradually subsiding since peaking at a near 24-year high of 6.3% in July last year, but it continues to hover around 4%, significantly above the central bank’s target of 2%. As parliamentary elections approach in approximately 11 months, a recent Gallup Korea opinion poll revealed that President Yoon’s disapproval rating sits at 59%, significantly higher than his approval rating of 35%.

World News

Thaiger Talk

Join the conversation and have your say on Thailand news published on The Thaiger.

Thaiger Talk is our new Thaiger Community where you can join the discussion on everything happening in Thailand right now.

Please note that articles are not posted to the forum instantly and can take up to 20 min before being visible. Click for more information and the Thaiger Talk Guidelines.

Sara

Sara is a journalist and content writer who specializes in lifestyle, wellness, and travel topics. Sara's journey in journalism began as a copywriter, and over time, her portfolio expanded to include articles and features for some of the nation's top lifestyle publications. Outside the office, she enjoys practising yoga and exploring hidden locations in Bangkok.

Related Articles