Business
South Korea Has the Second Highest Food and Beverage Prices Among OECD Countries
This index ranks only behind Switzerland’s 163 among the 38 OECD nations. For comparison, the United States has an index of 94, while Japan and Germany are at 126 and 107, respectively.
Additionally, South Korea’s consumer price index hit 116.03 in the first quarter of this year, marking a 16% rise over the past five years, according to Statistics Korea. The index for essential items—covering 144 daily necessities like food, clothing, and housing—reached 119.09, and the specific food price index stood at 125.04.
In response to these rising prices, the South Korean government is developing comprehensive measures to stabilize consumer costs, with particular attention on the prices of eggs and processed foods, which have surged recently.
On another note, the first heat wave advisory of the season was issued on Sunday for the inland regions of Gyeonggi Province surrounding Seoul. The Korea Meteorological Administration announced the advisory for areas such as Pocheon, Gapyeong, Paju, Anseong, and Yeoju, effective from 9 a.m. This advisory is triggered when temperatures are expected to reach 33°C or higher for two or more consecutive days.
Notably, this year’s first heat wave warning came five days later than last year’s, with the 2024 alert issued on June 10 for parts of the Gyeongsang regions.
Gold prices in India recorded a slight increase on January 19, 2026, supported by global market trends, local demand, and movements in the rupee-dollar exchange rate.
As per market estimates, 24-carat gold, which is considered pure gold, is priced at ₹14,569 per gram, or ₹1,45,690 per 10 grams. 22-carat gold, commonly used for jewellery, is trading at around ₹13,355 per gram, or ₹1,33,550 per 10 grams.
The prices have risen marginally compared to the previous day. The increase is mainly linked to a weaker Indian rupee against the US dollar, which makes imported gold more expensive.
Gold rates vary slightly across cities such as Mangalore and other parts of the country. These differences depend on local taxes, transportation costs, jeweller margins, and regional demand.
Demand for gold remains strong due to the wedding season and festive buying, which continues to support higher prices. Investors also turn to gold during uncertain economic conditions, as it is seen as a safe-haven asset.
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Experts say that global geopolitical developments, inflation concerns, and central bank policies are also influencing international gold prices, which in turn affect domestic rates.
Market participants expect gold prices to remain firm in the near term if the rupee stays weak and demand continues at current levels.
Gold prices witnessed a mild decline in the domestic bullion market on January 16, 2026. The price of 24-carat gold was recorded at ₹143,080 per 10 grams. This marked a fall of ₹360 compared to its previous closing price, indicating a soft trend in the precious metal market.
Similarly, the price of 22-carat gold also moved lower. It was trading at ₹131,157 per 10 grams during the day. The decline in gold prices reflects cautious sentiment among investors amid changing global economic signals.
Market experts said gold prices were affected by fluctuations in international markets and movements in the US dollar. Profit booking by investors at higher levels also contributed to the marginal drop in prices.
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Despite the decline, demand for gold remains steady in the domestic market. Jewellers reported moderate buying interest, especially for 22-carat gold used in jewellery. Industry participants are now closely watching global inflation data, interest rate trends, and geopolitical developments.
Gold prices are expected to remain volatile in the coming days. Investors are advised to keep an eye on global cues and currency movements before making fresh investments.
Silver prices fell sharply from record levels in the national capital on Thursday due to global profit-booking. The price of silver dropped by ₹12,500 to ₹2,43,500 per kilogram.
According to the All India Sarafa Association, the white metal had touched a record high of ₹2,56,000 per kilogram in the previous trading session on Wednesday. Silver had surged by ₹5,000 in that session amid strong global cues.
Gold prices also weakened on Thursday. The yellow metal declined by ₹900 per 10 grams in the local market. Traders attributed the fall to selling pressure after recent gains.
Market experts said that a rise in global prices earlier had encouraged investors to book profits. This selling pressure impacted both silver and gold prices in the domestic market.
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They added that movements in international bullion prices and a stronger dollar also influenced the decline. Investors are now closely watching global economic signals for further direction in precious metal prices.
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