March 29, 2024
News

Drop in North Korean crop output aggravates domestic food shortages: Report

ROK researchers blame floods and drought for shortfall, while expert says estimate doesn’t provide full picture

North Korea produced 180,000 tons less food this year than in 2021, exacerbating chronic food shortages, South Korea’s Rural Development Administration (RDA) said Thursday.

According to a government report, the decline from around 4.7 million to 4.5 million tons of food comes after floods, drought and other weather conditions stunted the growth of all crops except wheat and barley. Tuber yields suffered the most in relative terms, declining 14% on-year. 

Become a member for less than $4 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.