Green Elephant Revitalizes Hongseong's Downtown with Support from Saemaul Geumgo Saemaul Geumgo is expanding its role as a "local coexistence platform" that connects youth entrepreneurship with community revitalization, going beyond simple financial support. Leveraging its strengths as a community-based financial institution, it is creating a virtuous cycle in the local economy through funding and community connections.A prime example is the youth startup Green Elephant in Hongseong, South Chungcheong Province. Green Elephant produces meal kits using eco-friendly agricultural products contracted from over 30 local farms and delivers them in the early morning to the Hongseong area. Founded by Kim Man-i, the startup connects local agricultural products with consumers and young people.In its early stages, Green Elephant received 50 million won in funding from Hongju Saemaul Geumgo to establish its business. It later secured an additional 40 million won through the Saemaul Geumgo Central Association's Youth Local Support Project. The support extended beyond funding; Hongju Saemaul Geumgo also promoted and sold Green Elephant's products at its general meetings and member events.This collaboration has led to the revitalization of Hongseong's downtown area. The "Mujeong Market," a local commercial revitalization project, has been held nine times on Honggotong Street, attracting about 1,700 visitors. This initiative has transformed what was once a declining cultural and commercial center in Hongseong into a vibrant gathering place.The case of Green Elephant illustrates how local production, consumers, and finance can be interconnected in a virtuous cycle. Analysts suggest that local financial institutions are playing a platform role that goes beyond simple lending to connect entrepreneurship, distribution, and youth communities.The Hongseong MG Cooperation Center, established based on the private startup incubation facility Jelly's Lounge, is a notable example. This space has hosted 96 meetings for local creators, fostering collaboration among young residents.The MG Cooperation Center project is an initiative by the Saemaul Geumgo Central Association, in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Together Foundation, aimed at addressing local issues such as urban decline, agricultural overproduction, and youth isolation through youth entrepreneurship and community-based projects since 2024.The Saemaul Geumgo Central Association plans to expand its collaboration with youth village enterprises this year, selecting over 20 organizations to implement cooperative projects worth approximately 2 billion won. A representative from the Saemaul Geumgo Central Association stated, "We plan to actively promote community development through continuous cooperation with social solidarity economy enterprises."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 06:12:20

Misconceptions About Albumin Supplements Recent interest in liver health and fatigue relief has led to an increase in the consumption of albumin protein supplements. Albumin is a key plasma protein synthesized in the liver, responsible for maintaining colloid osmotic pressure in the blood and transporting various substances, including drugs, hormones, and fatty acids, while also playing a role in antioxidant activity. A decrease in serum albumin can lead to symptoms such as edema, ascites, and general weakness, prompting some patients to believe that taking albumin supplements could raise their serum levels. Hypoalbuminemia is used as a clinical indicator related to the severity of chronic diseases, including cirrhosis. However, egg white-derived albumin products primarily contain ovalbumin, not human serum albumin. More importantly, whether albumin or other proteins are consumed, they are broken down into amino acids and small peptides by stomach acid, pepsin, pancreatic proteases, and intestinal mucosal peptidases before absorption. The structure does not allow for the direct entry of intact albumin molecules into the bloodstream to replenish serum albumin levels. In fact, there is limited evidence that large proteins or peptides are absorbed in physiologically significant concentrations in healthy adults; absorption mainly occurs in the form of amino acids and di-/tri-peptides. Clinically, it is rare for serum albumin levels to significantly increase in patients with cirrhosis when taking albumin supplements. In cirrhosis, hypoalbuminemia does not simply result from a lack of albumin intake but is a complex outcome of reduced protein synthesis by liver cells, fluid retention due to portal hypertension, blood dilution, systemic inflammatory responses, increased protein catabolism, and protein loss through the kidneys or intestines. Thus, oral albumin products are just one source of amino acids, similar to regular protein foods. While the absorbed amino acids can serve as building blocks for albumin synthesis in the liver, patients with already impaired liver function may not see an immediate increase in production from merely supplying these building blocks. The albumin used in medical settings is an intravenous formulation of human serum albumin, distinct in purpose and mechanism from oral albumin supplements. Intravenous albumin is used in specific complications of cirrhosis, such as preventing circulatory dysfunction after large-volume paracentesis, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatorenal syndrome. This treatment aims to correct intravascular volume and colloid osmotic pressure, stabilizing circulatory function, and is not intended for nutritional supplementation or to simply raise albumin levels. Therefore, it is inappropriate to view albumin supplements as liver function enhancers or fatigue relievers. The term "albumin supplementation" used in product advertisements may mislead consumers into thinking that serum albumin is directly replenished. In reality, it should be understood as a form of protein supplementation that cannot replace disease treatment or liver function recovery. For liver health, accurately diagnosing underlying diseases and maintaining balanced nutrition is more important than consuming specific protein products at high costs. Patients with cirrhosis often experience muscle wasting and malnutrition, necessitating consultation with specialists and nutritional management. Generally, for patients with cirrhosis, a protein intake of about 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight per day is recommended to prevent muscle wasting and improve nutritional status. However, patients with ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, or reduced kidney function require individualized dietary prescriptions based on their specific conditions. Common chronic liver diseases in South Korea include hepatitis B and C, metabolic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, and cirrhosis, all of which can progress to liver cancer. Particularly, liver cancer often presents with few early symptoms, making regular surveillance and screening crucial for patients with cirrhosis or chronic viral hepatitis. Symptoms such as pain in the upper right abdomen, weight loss, severe fatigue, and jaundice may indicate that the disease has significantly progressed. The National Cancer Information Center also identifies chronic hepatitis B and C, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, and obesity and diabetes-related fatty liver disease as major risk factors for liver cancer. To prevent liver cancer, it is important to receive hepatitis B vaccinations, undergo hepatitis C screening and treatment, abstain from or limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, manage diabetes and hyperlipidemia, and avoid unverified folk remedies and hepatotoxic medications. Patients with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis should undergo regular liver ultrasounds and blood tests, and rather than relying on health supplements, it is advisable to consult specialists for treatment tailored to the causes and stages of their conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 06:09:14

Surprising Economic Growth Raises Interest Rate Concerns “While everyone expected the semiconductor market to improve, it was hard to predict it would get this good.” This remark came as the Bank of Korea announced its preliminary gross domestic product (GDP) figures for the first quarter of this year, symbolizing an unexpected relief for the economy. The economy grew by a solid 1.7% compared to the previous quarter, surpassing market expectations and signaling that South Korea has entered a robust growth phase. A closer look reveals even more surprising developments: private consumption, which had been sluggish, increased by 0.5% from the previous quarter, indicating a gradual recovery. Externally, the semiconductor sector is driving growth, while internally, private consumption is showing signs of a modest rebound, fueling hopes for economic recovery. However, beneath this impressive growth rate lie clear structural limitations. According to the Bank of Korea, the manufacturing sector played a crucial role in this quarter's growth, with semiconductors accounting for over 55% of the total contribution. This means that more than half of the 1.7% growth came from just one sector. In fact, excluding semiconductors, manufacturing production only increased by 0.2%, indicating stagnation. The chief economist at the Asian Development Bank noted that excluding the semiconductor boom and considering the ongoing high oil prices due to the Middle East conflict, South Korea's economic growth rate could face a downward pressure of 0.9 percentage points this year. This suggests that the benefits of the semiconductor boom have not been evenly distributed across employment, domestic consumption, and small businesses. The growth figures complicate the Bank of Korea's decision-making. The central bank has maintained its base rate at 2.50% for seven consecutive meetings, despite widening interest rate differentials with the U.S. and currency instability, reflecting a cautious approach due to rising numbers of marginal firms, household debt burdens, and concerns over domestic economic slowdown. However, with both high economic growth and upward pressure on prices now confirmed, the justification for maintaining the current rate has weakened. While the improved growth rate alleviates some downside risks, the prolonged conflict in the Middle East and rising international oil prices have intensified supply-side inflationary pressures. Currency pressures remain a concern as well. The unexpected growth has provided some comfort to the South Korean economy but has also raised the possibility of a shift in the central bank's policy. With the economy proving more resilient than expected, the focus of monetary policy may shift from defending growth to stabilizing prices and exchange rates. Recently, Bank of Korea Deputy Governor Yoo Sang-dae mentioned the potential for a change in policy signals, which the market interpreted as a hint at the resumption of interest rate hikes. The challenge is that the burden of tightening is not evenly distributed across the economy. Unlike the semiconductor-driven growth, there are still concerns about a weakening job market, the burdens on vulnerable borrowers, and deteriorating financing conditions for businesses. The average number of unemployed in the first quarter reached over one million for the first time in five years, highlighting a cold job market where the trickle-down effect is concentrated in only a few sectors. This reality calls for a more nuanced monetary policy from the Bank of Korea. Ultimately, monetary policy must be guided by larger risks. With both rising growth rates and upward price pressures confirmed, the Bank of Korea's room to maintain its current freeze has narrowed significantly. The figure of 1.7% now carries implications beyond mere growth statistics. An environment has emerged where the Bank can no longer remain in its previous stance of freezing rates. However, even if an interest rate hike becomes inevitable, there must be accompanying policy measures to support vulnerable borrowers and businesses facing worsening financing conditions. The message from the May Monetary Policy Committee is likely to mark a turning point, signaling the end of the prolonged freeze and the beginning of a tightening phase.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 06:07:47

16th Global Healthcare Forum to be Held on May 14 Aju News Corporation (Aju Economy) will host the 16th Global Healthcare Forum on May 14. This year's forum will focus on the theme "AI Revolution: Global Value Chain Strategy for K-Bio," highlighting the structural changes brought by artificial intelligence (AI) in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, as well as future responses to these changes. The forum will feature participation from government agencies, academia, and private companies, with in-depth discussions and presentations on topics including: △ AI Drug Development Platform Chemiverse: Present and Future △ Capturing Big Data for New Drug Development: AI 'Pharma 5.0' △ Policies Supporting the Globalization of K-Bio. This event aims to explore innovations and enhance competitiveness in both domestic and global pharmaceutical and biotech industries, and it encourages widespread interest and participation. ■Theme: AI Revolution: Global Value Chain Strategy for K-Bio ■Date: May 14, 2026 (Thursday) from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM ■Location: Maehwa Hall, 19th Floor, Korea Press Center ■Hosted by: Aju Economy ■Sponsored by: Ministry of Health and Welfare, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Korea Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Manufacturers Association, Korea Health Industry Development Institute, Korea Bio Association, Korean Pharmaceutical Association, Korea Digital Health Industry Association ■Contact: Aju Economy Forum Secretariat (02 767 1642)* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 06:06:41

Fans Line Up for 'B Mainstream Invitation' to See 'Heo Gwan-min' "It seems more important to not judge others based on their tastes than to refine your own preferences. Just because you've seen high-end or classic films doesn't mean you should show off," said Kim Min-kyung, an editor at Minumsa, during an interview before the 'B Mainstream Invitation' event on May 9. Joining her were rapper Heo Ki Shibaseki and drummer Kim Gan-ji, who added, "Watch a lot and enjoy a lot," and "When you like something, don’t worry about what others think."The trio, known as 'Heo-Gan-Min,' are featured in Toss's YouTube channel 'Moneygraphy,' where they engage in candid discussions about their diverse tastes in film, literature, and gaming. Their open dialogue resonates with younger audiences, creating a liberating atmosphere that encourages honesty over judgment. Interestingly, the entity behind this taste community is the financial platform Toss. Since launching its YouTube channel 'Moneygraphy' in September 2021, Toss has expanded its content to include economic and lifestyle topics. The 'B Mainstream Invitation' is a spinoff from the economic content series 'B Mainstream Economics.'Toss's focus on content that is less directly related to financial services aligns with its strategy to enhance brand experience. This approach aims to increase user engagement and foster a sense of intimacy with the platform.The offline talk show attracted over 1,500 participants, showcasing its popularity. Attendees expressed their enthusiasm in an open chat room, stating things like, "I will move my salary account to Toss," and "I signed up for Toss FacePay." Toss representatives noted that the scene of participants lining up from 2:30 PM for the 6 PM event was unusual for a financial company.Baek Soon-do, the producer behind the 'B Mainstream Invitation,' remarked, "For the brand, offline events are the most effective way to leave a strong impression of Toss. We have not yet started concrete discussions about Season 2 or future directions, but we plan to continue presenting engaging projects and content."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 06:05:11

Saemaul Geumgo Strengthens Trust and Financial Stability Saemaul Geumgo Central Association is undertaking significant reforms aimed at enhancing financial stability and expanding its role in local finance. The organization is working to stabilize its delinquency rate and manage non-performing assets while strengthening its low-income finance functions to rebuild trust. As of the end of last year, the overall delinquency rate for Saemaul Geumgo was 5.08%, down 1.73 percentage points from 6.81% at the end of the previous year. This marks a recovery to the level seen at the end of 2023 (5.07%), continuing the trend of improving asset soundness. Despite recording a net loss of 1.2658 trillion won due to the sale of delinquent loans and the accumulation of loan loss reserves, this figure represents a reduction of 476.5 billion won compared to the previous year's loss of 1.7423 trillion won. In the second half of last year, the organization achieved a net profit of 62.9 billion won, indicating potential for recovery in profitability. The reform efforts gained momentum following the appointment of Chairman Kim In in December 2023, during a period when rising interest rates and a downturn in the real estate market had negatively impacted the overall soundness of the mutual finance sector. The situation was exacerbated by a wave of deposit withdrawals from Saemaul Geumgo, making organizational normalization and trust restoration key priorities. Chairman Kim prioritized enhancing soundness and organizational reform, initiating a comprehensive overhaul. Saemaul Geumgo is focusing on managing non-performing loans and strengthening risk management while pursuing mergers with 43 credit unions over the past three years to improve its financial structure. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety noted, "Despite the challenging business environment last year due to delays in real estate recovery and stricter lending regulations, active measures such as managing non-performing loans through asset management companies, establishing the Vision 2030 Committee, and implementing company-wide reforms have gradually improved key management indicators since July of last year." Chairman Kim, who successfully secured reappointment at the end of last year, has consistently emphasized the need for reform during events such as the founding anniversary and management evaluation meetings with Saemaul Geumgo chairpersons. In February, Saemaul Geumgo announced its 'Vision 2030,' outlining key objectives including enhancing soundness, restoring cooperative identity, and addressing local issues. The organization aims to achieve a turnaround to profitability by 2028 and reduce the delinquency rate to the 3% range by 2030. Saemaul Geumgo is also intensifying its role in local and low-income finance. Currently, the share of low-income finance stands at approximately 28.5%, with plans to expand this to 80%. The organization aims to provide a total of 1.8 trillion won in financial support through guarantees and other means to strengthen its support for local communities and vulnerable groups. Policy loans such as Saemaul Geumgo's Sunshine Loan, municipal agreement loans, and small business loans are steadily increasing, with amounts of 295.8 billion won in 2023, 312.3 billion won in 2024, and 405.2 billion won in 2025. In the first quarter of this year alone, 93.4 billion won in low-income finance was supplied. Efforts to expand support for local communities are also accelerating. This year, Saemaul Geumgo plans to enhance special guarantee loans for social economy organizations, including cooperatives and social enterprises, through its newly established Social Finance Division. The organization aims to utilize its nationwide branch network to support the self-sufficiency of local social economy organizations and contribute to revitalizing the local economy. Saemaul Geumgo will continue its support for over 20 social economy organizations this year while also expanding collaboration with existing partner companies. Starting in 2024, it will launch support programs for youth-led social enterprises. The organization is also addressing the crisis of regional extinction due to low birth rates and an aging population. It plans to strengthen community support initiatives, particularly in financially underserved areas outside the capital, to aid in the recovery of local communities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 06:03:24

Trump Calls Iran's Response to U.S. Peace Proposal Unacceptable On May 10, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran's response to America's peace proposal was unacceptable. According to Yonhap News, Trump shared on social media platform Truth Social, "I just read the response from Iran's so-called 'representatives.' I do not like it. It is completely unacceptable." Earlier, the United States had sent a proposal to Iran aimed at achieving peace. On May 8, Trump mentioned during a meeting with reporters at the White House, "I will probably receive a letter tonight," but Iranian state news agency IRNA reported that Iran had sent its response to the U.S. through the mediator country, Pakistan, on that same day. The U.S. proposal reportedly includes a 20-year suspension of uranium enrichment, which is used for nuclear weapons, and guarantees for the free passage of international vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Trump's social media post did not clarify whether he would maintain the ceasefire with Iran, which has been in place since last month, or whether negotiations with Iran would continue. On the same day, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, told ABC News, "President Trump is giving diplomacy every chance before returning to hostilities, while at the same time, he is definitely prepared to resume attacks against Iran." 2026-05-11 06:00:18

Rising Import Prices Raise Concerns Over Consumer Inflation in South Korea As rising exchange rates and surging import prices exert cumulative cost pressures, concerns are growing about consumer inflation in the second half of the year. While the government has implemented measures such as reducing fuel taxes to stabilize prices in the short term, analysts warn that the accumulated burden of import costs is likely to be passed on to consumer prices starting later this year. According to relevant government departments, consumer prices rose 2.6% in April compared to the same month last year, marking the highest increase since July 2024. The government noted that excluding petroleum products, the inflation rate remains stable at around 1.8%. Market observers believe that the reduction in fuel taxes and policies aimed at stabilizing oil prices are acting as a temporary barrier against inflationary pressures. The government is working with the refining industry to absorb some of the price increases, effectively blocking the immediate impact of rising international oil prices on consumer prices. However, the key issue is that the cost pressures accumulated at the import stage are likely to be transferred to consumer prices with a time lag. Import prices are calculated based on contract dates and typically reflect in producer and consumer prices one to three months later. The Bank of Korea reported that the import price index surged 16.1% in March compared to the previous month, reaching 169.38, the largest increase in 28 years since January 1998 (17.8%). This spike is attributed to rising exchange rates and soaring prices of crude oil, gas, grains, and industrial raw materials. Specifically, naphtha prices rose by 46.1%, jet fuel by 67.1%, and butadiene by 70.6% within a month. Notably, companies are still absorbing the rising costs of raw materials internally. Manufacturers are refraining from raising product prices due to concerns about economic slowdown, but prolonged deterioration in profitability could ultimately lead to higher consumer prices. Exchange rate instability also poses a burden. Although the won-dollar exchange rate, which hovered around 1,500 won earlier last month, has recently dropped to the mid-1,400s, the monthly average exchange rate slightly increased from 1,486.64 won in March to 1,487.39 won in April. According to the Hyundai Economic Research Institute, a 10% increase in the won-dollar exchange rate would raise consumer price inflation by approximately 0.3 percentage points in the short term and up to 0.5 percentage points after six months. The structure of the economy means that exchange rate shocks initially lead to rising import prices, which then affect consumer prices through production and distribution stages. The institute warns that the current simultaneous rise in international oil prices and exchange rates could accelerate the transfer of price shocks at the import stage, increasing upward pressure on consumer prices more than usual. Lee Taek-geun, a researcher at the Hyundai Economic Research Institute, stated, "With rising import prices and inflation expectations, there is a significant likelihood that upward pressure on domestic prices will persist. The increase in exchange rates will sequentially elevate import prices, producer prices, and consumer prices, acting as a burden on overall domestic prices." Choi Ji-wook, a researcher at Korea Investment & Securities, also noted, "Consumer price inflation is expected to reach around 3% as early as May or as late as June. Although core commodity prices temporarily fell in April, the rising producer prices of chemical and textile products will likely continue to be reflected, leading to sustained increases through the end of the year." Concerns are growing that prolonged risks in the Middle East, supply chain instability, and high exchange rates may limit the effectiveness of the government's price stabilization policies. While measures such as fuel tax reductions have mitigated short-term shocks, sustained increases in international oil prices and exchange rates could escalate fiscal burdens. Market analysts believe that trends in import prices will emerge as a key variable in the Bank of Korea's monetary policy direction and the government's overall measures for stabilizing livelihoods. They caution that if upward pressure on prices increases in the second half of the year amid concerns about economic slowdown, the government's ability to respond may be constrained. The researcher added, "Rising consumer prices will reduce households' real purchasing power, limiting private consumption capacity, which could hinder the recovery of the domestic economy. Expanding inflationary pressures may not only narrow the scope for monetary policy aimed at supporting economic recovery but could also constrain fiscal policy options." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 05:07:33

Rising Grain Prices Due to Middle East Conflict May Impact Livestock Costs International grain prices are rising due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. This increase is expected to drive up domestic feed prices, raising concerns that livestock prices may follow suit. Additionally, the prices of cooking oils and other fats are also climbing, making dining out less affordable. According to relevant authorities on May 10, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that the global food price index rose by 1.6% last month, reaching 130.7. This index compares current prices to the average from 2014 to 2016, and after five consecutive months of decline until January, it has now increased for three straight months since rebounding in February. Specifically, the international grain price index led the increase, rising 0.8% to 111.3. Wheat prices were affected by drought in some regions of the U.S., contributing to a 0.8% increase in the wheat price index. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has also led to higher fertilizer prices, prompting farmers to reduce wheat cultivation, which further drives up prices. The corn price index rose 0.7% compared to the previous month due to supply shortages in Brazil and drought conditions in the U.S. The rice price index also increased by 1.9% over the month, influenced by soaring crude oil and petroleum derivative prices, which raised production and distribution costs. The rise in international grain prices is expected to exert pressure on domestic feed prices over time, as more than 95% of the grains used in feed for livestock farms are imported. Additionally, the won-dollar exchange rate has significantly increased compared to a year ago (averaging 1,394 won in May 2025), further raising import costs. The feed industry is also reaching its limits. A representative from the feed sector stated, "With the exchange rate rising and shipping costs increasing due to the Middle East conflict, grain prices are also climbing. While we are trying to hold off on price increases due to demands from the agricultural sector, we cannot allow losses to accumulate indefinitely, so we are considering various alternatives." When feed prices rise, livestock prices are also affected, as feed costs constitute a significant portion of production expenses. It is reported that about 40% of the production costs for Hanwoo, a popular breed among farmers, are attributed to feed. Currently, both domestic farmers and the feed industry anticipate a high likelihood of price increases in the second half of the year. As a result, concerns are growing that already soaring livestock prices may become even more unstable. According to the Korea Institute of Animal Products Quality Evaluation, the price of grade 1 beef sirloin was 9,980 won per 100 grams, an 11.1% increase compared to a year ago. The price of pork belly also rose to 2,742 won per 100 grams, up 9.6% from the previous year. With the added pressure of rising feed costs, there is a strong possibility that this upward price trend will continue. Imported beef prices are also rising, putting pressure on consumer prices. As of the previous day, the price of U.S. beef short ribs (chilled) and chuck eye roll (chilled) was 4,724 won and 4,123 won per 100 grams, respectively, marking increases of 13.7% and 18.0% compared to a year ago. The prices of cooking oils and other fats, which impact overall dining costs, are also concerning. According to the FAO, the price index for oils and fats rose by 5.9% last month, reaching 193.9. The international palm oil price, a key ingredient for cooking oil, has continued to rise for five consecutive months due to increased demand for biofuels. A representative from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs stated, "Given the ongoing uncertainties in international raw material prices, we will strengthen monitoring of supply and demand conditions for various items and will make every effort to manage the supply of agricultural and livestock products using available means." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 05:05:22

Warning Signs for Import Prices: Concerns of Price Shock as Controls End The government has been absorbing the impact of rising international oil prices through measures such as reducing fuel taxes and implementing price controls on petroleum products. However, market sentiment largely views the current price trends as 'suppressed' rather than 'stable.' While consumer price increases are currently limited, there are concerns that a 'price shock' could materialize in the second half of the year as the effects of these policies weaken.According to the oil price information system Opinet, the average price of Dubai crude oil in April was $112.20 per barrel, a 49.4% increase compared to the average of $75.08 in the same month last year. This month, prices have hovered around $103, still significantly higher than pre-war levels.The prolonged conflict in the Middle East has led to a simultaneous rise in international oil prices and the won-dollar exchange rate, increasing pressure on import prices. Domestic industries, which heavily rely on crude oil and raw material imports, are also feeling the strain.However, this cost pressure has not yet been fully reflected in consumer prices. Last month, the consumer price inflation rate was 2.6%, the highest since July 2024, but excluding a 22% surge in petroleum products from the previous year, the rate drops to 1.8%.Analysts attribute this to the government's strong 'price defense' measures. The government estimates that without the price controls, last month's inflation rate would have risen to 3.8%, indicating that the controls have lowered inflation by about 1.2 percentage points.Gasoline and diesel prices are estimated to have soared to 2,200 won and 2,500 won per liter, respectively. Since March, the government has implemented price controls on petroleum products, adjusting or freezing prices five times to date.In comparison to OECD member countries, South Korea's energy price inflation rate of 5.2% in March was lower than that of the United States (12.5%), Germany (7.6%), and France (7.1%).However, some market observers argue that the shock has not disappeared but has merely been postponed. The prolonged high oil prices and exchange rates have led refiners and manufacturers to suppress price increases despite declining profitability.The burden on the refining industry is also nearing its limits. The government has prepared supplementary budgets to compensate refiners for losses incurred due to price controls, but if high international oil prices persist, an increase in fiscal burdens is inevitable.Concerns are growing that the accumulated pressures from high exchange rates and oil prices since the beginning of the year could lead to a sudden release of suppressed price increases if the effectiveness of policies diminishes.Market analysts identify the timing of policy termination as a critical variable. If the reduction in fuel taxes is scaled back or price controls are lifted, there is a possibility that suppressed petroleum prices could surge in a short period.For instance, Hungary, which implemented price controls in 2021, saw a 50% increase in fuel sales after the program ended, while Pakistan experienced a 66% spike in gasoline prices immediately after lifting price freezes from February to May 2022.Consequently, experts are urging the government not to focus solely on short-term price suppression but to develop a gradual 'exit strategy.'Lee Hong, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade, stated, "While price controls can temporarily suppress price surges and alleviate consumer burdens, prolonged measures can lead to shortages, supply distortions, and greater price rebounds after the program ends. Targeted support for industries heavily reliant on fuel costs and differentiated policy designs that consider supply stability are necessary."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 05:03:26