Buyeo, South Chungcheong Province – South Chungcheong Province is embarking on an ambitious plan to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of Buyeo, a city steeped in Baekje history and culture. Governor Kim Tae-heum recently visited Buyeo, marking his first regional tour of the fourth year of his term, to outline a comprehensive vision that includes the development of smart farm complexes, the expansion of traditional Korean hanok villages, the establishment of a new industrial complex, and the creation of a national garden along the Geumgang River (Baekmagang).
Governor Kim’s visit on June 16 was a multi-faceted engagement, featuring a press conference, a town hall meeting with residents, and on-site inspections of smart farm facilities, culminating in a discussion with young farmers. The town hall, held at the Sabimaru Hall of the Buyeo National Museum, saw an attendance of over 500 residents and local officials, including Buyeo County Mayor Park Jeong-hyun.
During his address, Governor Kim reiterated the provincial government's commitment to Buyeo's development, specifically pledging to ensure the seamless execution of the smart farm complex project, the expansion of hanok villages, the establishment of a general industrial complex, and the creation of the Baekmagang National Garden.
Pioneering Smart Farm Development
The smart farm initiative is a cornerstone of the provincial government's strategy to innovate agricultural structures and systems. The province aims to develop 8.36 million square meters (approximately 2,530,000 pyeong) of smart farms by the end of the 8th popular election term, with a goal of nurturing 3,000 young farmers who can generate over ₩50 million in annual income.
Buyeo, which currently boasts the largest smart farm area in South Chungcheong Province, is set to further solidify its position as a hub for smart agriculture. By 2027, an additional 231,000 square meters (approximately 70,000 pyeong) of smart farms will be established. This expansion will be complemented by the construction of an integrated support center offering customized education and practical training for young farmers.
"We will create a system where young people with a passion for smart farming can earn money, even if they lack initial capital," Governor Kim emphasized. "We will provide robust support to help young farmers settle and thrive in our province." This commitment aligns with broader national efforts to modernize agriculture and attract a younger generation to farming, addressing concerns about an aging farming population and ensuring food security.
Revitalizing Baekje Heritage with Hanok Villages
To enhance Buyeo's image as an ancient Baekje capital, the province is pushing forward with the development of hanok villages, planning a total of four sites with 1,300 homes by 2036. The project gained significant momentum in February with the official gazetting of the 'Buyeo County Ancient City Preservation and Development Implementation Plan (2024-2028),' which incorporates the hanok village initiative into the county's broader preservation strategy.
The provincial and county governments are collaborating on developing standard hanok models that blend the aesthetic beauty of Baekje with modern sensibilities. The initial phase will involve the construction of the Baekje Pavilion as a public-led pilot project, followed by the gradual development of the hanok villages to recreate the dignified atmosphere of the ancient Baekje capital. This initiative not only preserves cultural heritage but also aims to boost tourism and create unique living environments.
Forging New Economic Opportunities: The Buyeo General Industrial Complex
The groundbreaking ceremony in April marked the official start of the first general industrial complex in Buyeo, spanning 463,134 square meters in the Jeongdong and Mujeong-ri areas of Hongsan-myeon. This development is envisioned as a critical hub for future growth industries and job creation, particularly in connection with the potential designation of a special economic zone for secondary battery-related industries.
Upon its completion by 2027, the province plans to attract companies across 10 strategic industries for Buyeo County, including battery manufacturing, food processing, and chemicals. This diversification of the local economy aims to reduce reliance on traditional sectors and foster a more resilient and high-tech industrial base.
Creating a National Garden: Baekmagang Garden Project
The Baekmagang Garden project, which received approval for designation as a local garden by the Korea Forest Service in October of last year, is progressing rapidly. Preliminary administrative procedures, including small-scale environmental and disaster impact assessments, and design work are slated for completion within the year, with construction commencing thereafter.
The garden is expected to be completed by 2027. Following a three-year operational period to ensure its stability and functionality, efforts will be made to register it as a national garden by 2030. This green infrastructure project aims to enhance the environmental quality of the region, provide recreational spaces for residents and tourists, and further elevate Buyeo’s profile as a cultural and ecological destination.
On-Site Visits and Engagements with Young Farmers
Following the town hall meeting, Governor Kim visited two new smart farm construction sites and an existing smart farm equipped with advanced facilities in Jangha-ri, Jangam-myeon. A total of ₩1.25 billion (approximately $900,000 USD) from provincial, county, and self-funded sources has been invested in these two new smart farms, which cover 7,260 square meters (approximately 2,200 pyeong).
The Jangha-ri smart farms are notable for their innovative "aeroponics" cultivation method, which grows plants without soil, and the integration of geothermal energy for heating and cooling. This combination significantly reduces heating and cooling costs compared to fossil fuels and minimizes pest and disease outbreaks. These farms cultivate five varieties of European salad lettuce, including Kai Pira, Butterhead, Romaine, Frillice, and Isabelle, popular for dietary and healthy eating trends.
The Governor then moved to the Jangam Masilbang in Buyeo-gun for a candid discussion with about 20 young farmers. During the session, Governor Kim listened to their concerns and challenges, reaffirming his commitment to providing active support to ensure that all young farmers can achieve success.
Governor Kim’s regional tour will continue on July 22, with his next stop scheduled for Cheonan City. These ongoing engagements underscore the provincial government's proactive approach to regional development, focusing on sustainable growth, technological innovation, and the empowerment of future generations in agriculture.
[Copyright (c) Global Economic Times. All Rights Reserved.]
