The price of vegetables has been skyrocketing as demand increases ahead of kimchi-making season in preparation for the cold winter.

According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation on Sunday, cabbage used to make kimchi, one of Korea's favorite side dishes, cost about US$3.50 as of Thursday, up from $2 last year. Other vegetables like onions and ginger have also soared in price.

The government said it will increase imports and closely monitor the price of vegetables until early December.