The demand for sea salt in South Korea has experienced a significant increase due to concerns over Japan’s planned discharge of radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. Insanga, a salt producer, saw a surge in its share price following reports of the test operation of the contaminated water discharge facility. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries reported a 27 percent spike in the price of 20 kg sea salt in early June. The government attributed the price hike to weather and production factors, but local media suggested it was due to salt stockpiling by both consumers and retailers.

A survey revealed that a majority of South Koreans opposed the discharge, with 72 percent stating they would reduce their consumption of marine products if the wastewater was released.