Consumer Prices Maintain Momentum in April

Consumer prices in April experienced a 2.1 percent year-on-year increase, mirroring March's inflation rate. This steady rise is primarily attributed to higher service fees and processed food prices, though decreases in fresh food prices and certain personal services provided some balance.

Detailed Breakdown by Category

Personal services saw a significant uptick of 3.3 percent, contributing heavily to the overall inflation. Dining out costs, insurance premiums, and apartment maintenance fees also rose. Conversely, domestic travel and airfare expenses saw notable declines.

Fresh Food Prices Dip

The fresh food index fell by 1.9 percent, with vegetables and fruits, especially Korean melons, green onions, and tomatoes, experiencing sharp decreases.

Core Inflation and Spending Categories

The core inflation index, excluding volatile food and energy prices, rose by 2.1 percent. Transportation was the only spending category to decrease, while food and lodging, miscellaneous goods and services, and education costs increased.