Original Source
Kerosene Prices for Public Surge 2.5-Fold, Forcing Many to Turn Off Boilers
Heating Kerosene Prices Nearly Double in Days
Amid daily fluctuations in oil prices due to the Middle East situation, the cost of heating kerosene has seen a significant increase, burdening ordinary citizens. Moon Young-cheol, a resident of Donam-dong, Jeju City, was surprised to receive a call stating that the price of kerosene had surged to 460,000 won for a 200-liter drum, up from approximately 250,000 won (1,290 won per liter) when he reserved it a few days prior at a Nonghyup gas station. Despite the lingering cold, Mr. Moon is unable to comfortably turn on his boiler.
Global Oil Price Hike and Domestic Price Confusion
According to the Korea National Oil Corporation's Opinet system, international kerosene prices soared from around 830 won per liter before the Middle East crisis to 2,130 won on April 4th, an astonishing 2.5-fold increase. This rise far surpasses that of gasoline or diesel for vehicles. Domestic gas station prices are also in disarray. Of two gas stations located side-by-side on Yeonbuk-ro, one sells kerosene for 2,320 won per liter, while the adjacent station, unable to raise prices due to government directives, sells it for 1,850 won, resulting in a 500 won price difference per liter. Even President Lee Jae-myung has directly ordered a resolution to the soaring fuel prices, yet the confusion on the ground persists.
*Source: YouTube: KBS News (2026-03-10)*
