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Navigating climate change and heatflation in South Korean agriculture

South Korea has observed a notable increase in summer temperatures, with a recent report indicating a shift towards a tropical climate. This transformation is expected to have a substantial impact on the country's agricultural sector, introducing the concept of "heatflation," which refers to the inflationary pressures resulting from extreme heat conditions.

The term "heatflation" has emerged to describe the economic impact of such extreme weather conditions on agriculture, leading to price surges in Seoul's markets. For instance, the prices for staple vegetables have seen a significant increase since the spring. Similarly, apple production suffered a dramatic decrease, leading to a near doubling of prices in March compared to the previous year.

Ahn Ok-seon, a researcher at the National Institute of Plant Science, emphasizes the broader implications of climate change on agriculture, predicting more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The shift from a temperate to a tropical climate could lead to the disappearance of traditional apple and peach orchards, with a projected change in suitable crops for the region.

With over 50% of South Korea potentially becoming a humid subtropical zone by 2050, adaptation strategies for farmers are crucial. The Rural Development Agency is focusing on adaptation programs, including the development of heat-resistant apple varieties and the introduction of tropical species.

Source: La Croix International

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