Kimchi shortage exposes farm policy flaws
A poor 2026 harvest of radishes and napa cabbage is set to cause a kimchi shortage in parts of North Korea this winter. The shortfall threatens a staple that families depend on to get through the long, cold months. For a country grappling with a prolonged economic crisis and chronic food shortages, kimchi is far […]
A kimchi shortage in parts of North Korea is exposing flaws in the country's farm policy, according to a report by Daily NK. The shortage is due to weaker than expected harvests of radishes and napa cabbage, which are key ingredients for kimchi. This annual autumn ritual, known as kimjang, is more than just a side dish for North Koreans; it provides a significant portion of their winter diet.
The shortage will particularly impact industrial towns in South Pyongan province, which rely heavily on kimchi. The decline in vegetable production is attributed to a shift in agricultural policy where North Korea has been pushing for increased wheat and barley cultivation, at the expense of traditional kimchi ingredients. This policy shift has led to larger acreage for wheat and barley, resulting in fewer fields for radish and cabbage, which are essential for kimchi production.
The situation is exacerbated by poor weather conditions and rising prices for kimchi ingredients, making it difficult for families to prepare for the winter. The issue underscores a larger problem of food security and purchasing power in North Korea.
Brief written by urgent.news from Daily NK's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
