Even as egg prices have surged by more than 30 percent over the past year, sales of significantly more expensive premium eggs have seen a sharp increase at department stores.

From April to June of this year, sales of so-called premium eggs, labeled with egg production codes 1 or 2, grew by over 30 percent compared to the same period last year at Lotte, Shinsegae, and Hyundai department stores.

The egg production code is the last digit of the 10-digit number printed on the eggshell, indicating the environment in which the hens were raised. A lower number, such as 1 or 2, signifies that the hens had more space to move around and were kept in better living conditions.

Most eggs sold in department store food halls are those with codes 1 or 2, with prices averaging around 10,000 won for a carton of 10, and reaching up to 16,000 won.

Considering that standard eggs with codes 3 or 4, which have seen significant price hikes recently, cost between 5,000 and 6,000 won for a carton of 10, the premium eggs are two to three times more expensive.

Industry insiders analyze that as the price of standard eggs has risen sharply, the relative price gap with premium eggs has narrowed, leading to increased demand for eggs with codes 1 and 2.

They also explain that the customer base visiting department stores tends to be less sensitive to price and more inclined to seek high-quality products, which helps maintain demand for premium items.

A department store official stated, "While the overall price burden has increased due to rising egg prices, department store customers tend to prioritize quality and rearing conditions over price," adding, "There is a steady increase in customers who carefully consider the production process, such as animal welfare, before making a purchase."

Reported by Kim Taewon | Video by JISOO | Graphics by Yook Do-hyun | Produced by SBS Digital News