Truck drivers in South Korea are warning of threats to their livelihoods as oil prices surge amid Middle East instability. With freight rates frozen, drivers face monthly fuel cost increases of 1.2 million to 1.3 million won ($900-$970).
"Diesel was 1,500 won per liter a week ago, but yesterday it hit 1,940 won," said Baek, 58, a trailer driver. "If my monthly revenue is 15 million won, fuel costs 5 million won. This month, I'll spend an extra 1.2 million won."
Baek drives more than 500 kilometers daily across the country, working over 12 hours and filling approximately 200 liters of diesel every two days. He described the financial impact as devastating.
"After vehicle costs, maintenance, repairs, and taxes, my net income is about 5 million won—minimum wage when calculated hourly," Baek said. "If fuel costs rise 1.2 million won, my income drops to the 3 million won range. That's a real problem for supporting a family of four."
"Not a single shipping company has offered to raise freight rates because of higher fuel prices. Under the current system, drivers absorb all fuel cost increases," he added. "If this lasts two or three months, I'll accept a 2 million won loss and move on. But what if it continues long-term?"
Heo, 32, who drives a 21-ton truck, expressed similar concerns. "I fill 320 liters every two days. It used to cost 450,000 won, now it's 560,000 won," he said. "That's 100,000 won more per fill-up—monthly fuel costs will rise 1.2 million to 1.3 million won."
Industry data confirms drivers' concerns. According to the Korea National Oil Corporation's Opinet service, the national average diesel price reached 1,890.73 won per liter, approaching the 1,900 won threshold. Prices have jumped nearly 300 won from 1,594.1 won in the fourth week of last month.
Experts warn that rising oil prices will trigger chain reactions across consumer prices, including transportation, agricultural products, and restaurant costs.
"Freight transportation is feeling cost pressure first, but ultimately costs will rise across all production and distribution sectors," said Lee Eun-hee, professor of consumer science at Inha University.