May 2026 consumer price trends published (up 3.1% on a year earlier)
Source material is a Korean government announcement (in Korean).
According to the National Data Office, consumer prices in May 2026 were up 3.1% on the same month a year earlier and up 0.5% on the previous month.
Key facts
| Consumer price index | 119.92 (up 0.5% on the previous month, 3.1% on a year earlier) |
|---|---|
| Core prices | Excluding food and energy, up 2.5% on a year earlier |
| Living-cost price index | Up 3.3% on a year earlier |
| Main drivers | Petroleum products 24.2%, international air fares 25.9%, overseas package tours 26.3% |
Last checked:
The National Data Office (국가데이터처) published consumer price trends for May 2026. The consumer price index in May was 119.92, up 0.5% on the previous month and 3.1% on the same month a year earlier, and core prices excluding food and energy were up 2.5% on a year earlier. The living-cost price index (생활물가지수), which tracks prices people notice day to day, was up 3.3% on a year earlier. Higher international oil prices (petroleum products up 24.2%) and travel demand over the May holidays (international air fares up 25.9%, overseas package tours up 26.3%) were given as the main drivers.
Summaries below are factual notes based on government announcements and primary sources — not evaluations or opinions.
FAQ
How much did consumer prices rise in May 2026?
They were up 3.1% on the same month a year earlier and 0.5% on the previous month (consumer price index 119.92).
What pushed prices up?
Higher international oil prices (petroleum products up 24.2%) and travel demand over the May holidays (international air fares up 25.9%, overseas package tours up 26.3%) were given as the main drivers.