The price of water parsley, a key ingredient in Korean kimchi, has surged at Garak Market in Seoul due to a combination of reduced supply and increased demand. The high prices are largely attributed to a decrease in cultivation area due to labor shortages in Busan and Ulsan, and adverse weather conditions such as low temperatures and diseases. As a result, the average price per box has risen by 80% from last year to 28,727 won, and by 116% to 13,292 won compared to the previous year. Despite the upcoming end of the kimchi season, which is expected to decrease demand slightly, experts believe that prices will remain strong due to the continued demand for water parsley in soups and stews during the colder months.