South Korea: Cutlassfish catch plummets by 70% due to rising water temperature in the West Sea

In South Korea, the price of fresh cutlassfish has seen a significant increase due to a sharp decline in catch, especially around Jeju, causing both production and retail prices to skyrocket. The average price of domestic refrigerated cutlassfish has risen by over 5,000 won since last January, with prices now exceeding 20,000 won at traditional markets and distributors. This is in stark contrast to frozen cutlassfish prices, which have remained stable thanks to government stockpile releases and discount events. The drop in cutlassfish production, over 70% less than the previous year, is linked to rising water temperatures that affect fish migration and density. Additionally, an unusual increase in the West Sea's temperature in March, reported by Yonhap News, raises concerns about potential climate change impacts, although the East Sea has seen a temperature decrease. Retailers like E-Mart are now focusing more on selling frozen cutlassfish due to the high prices of fresh ones deterring customers.