Beyond Chicken: Eel, Duck, and Black Goat Vie for Attention as "Boknal" Health Food

As chicken prices continue to hold at elevated levels, South Korean consumers are seeking more diverse options for their traditional summer health food, known as "Boknal." The persistent high cost of chicken, coupled with a growing consumer appetite for variety, is driving the food and retail sectors to expand their offerings beyond the customary samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup).

Industry data shows that the wholesale price of broiler chickens was 3,656 won per kilogram as of July 13. While this represents a slight decrease from the previous month's average of 3,769 won, it remains 2.8% higher than the annual average of 3,557 won from the previous year and a significant 17.4% increase compared to the 2024 average of 3,115 won. This price pressure is a key factor pushing consumers and businesses to explore alternatives.

In response, convenience store chain GS25 has introduced a "July Boknal Edition" lunchbox featuring ingredients like freshwater eel and smoked duck, priced at 6,900 won. They have also launched new rice balls incorporating smoked duck and abalone liver fried rice. GS the Fresh is also promoting a "whole freshwater eel" dish. These offerings highlight a strategic pivot by retailers to capture demand for health-boosting meals by leveraging a wider array of popular ingredients like eel and duck, moving away from the traditional reliance on chicken.