2025 Tuna Price Surge: 3 Reasons to Still Choose Gold Tuna

At the dawn of the year, a 276 kg bluefin tuna was auctioned for 1.9 billion KRW in Tokyo, doubling the previous year's record. This surge signals a wider trend.

With supply shortages for premium ingredients coupled with fluctuating exchange rates and fuel prices, the industry anticipates a 20% rise in purchase costs starting from the second quarter.

However, we remain committed to our philosophy. By balancing long-term contracts, ultra-low temperature storage, and meticulous course design, we continue to provide exceptional quality at a fair value.

Here, we outline the data and the quiet dedication behind our market strategy.

One of many large-scale storage facilities found in the coastal warehouses of Busan.

1. The State of the Market: 2025 Tuna Indices by the Numbers

Note — While some reports mention a drop in average prices, this often refers to mass-market catches. For the premium belly cuts required for fine omakase, the supply has become significantly tighter, leading to a widening gap in quality and cost.

Selecting only the finest: Passing over smaller cuts to secure the 80kg belly section.

Inside the professional tuna processing facility.

2. Understanding the Shift: Three Key Variables

A. Restructuring of Catch Quotas

While the annual quota for offshore bluefin tuna has expanded for 2025-26, the increase is concentrated on smaller catches. Supply for the prized 200 kg+ giants remains critically low.

Strict inspection of Southern Bluefin tuna.

B. Oceanic Temperature & Migration Patterns

Research shows temperatures in the Northwest Pacific have risen by 1.1 °C over the last decade. As migration routes shift eastward, local coastal catches have become increasingly unpredictable.

Tuna belly preserved at a constant -50 °C.

C. Exchange Rates & Logistics

The appreciation of the Yen and rising freight indices have pushed average logistics costs for refrigerated containers up by 14% compared to last year.

Right: A quarter section of a premium Bluefin tuna belly.

3. Our Approach: Prioritizing Lasting Value

This dedication is reflected in our guest feedback, maintaining a 4.94 rating with a noticeable increase in guests who highlight the exceptional value for the quality provided.

A showcase of the complementary side dishes that complete our courses.

4. Cost vs. Value — A Transparent Breakdown of Our Courses

With an ingredient cost ratio of 46%, we significantly exceed the industry average of 34% for premium dining. This is our choice—to invest in the guest’s sensory experience over wider margins.

The full spread: A testament to our commitment to variety and quality.

5. Voices from the Field — A Perspective from our Supplier

“Since April, premium belly cuts have become incredibly scarce. Even at high price points, they are often unavailable. As large vessels are replaced by smaller lines, the volume of truly exceptional giants has plummeted.”

Every day, we strive to bring moments of joy to our guests.

6. Reservations & Contact

Market prices may fluctuate, but our principle of delivering “the perfect bite” remains unchanged. We invite you to experience the depth of flavor found in our -50 °C aged tuna.

Goldtuna Sinsa: 010-5478-0484

Goldtuna Bangi: 010-5468-0484

​