SIHUNG, SOUTH KOREA – Sihung City is gearing up to host a significant celebration of urban agriculture on Saturday, April 12th, with the ‘2025 Urban Agriculture Day Commemorative Ceremony and Citizen Happiness Garden Opening’ event. Scheduled to commence at 10:00 AM at the Baegot Garden Land, the event is anticipated to draw a crowd of approximately 1,000 participants, including enthusiastic urban farmers, dedicated agricultural professionals, and esteemed guests.
This year's commemoration holds particular significance as it is being held in conjunction with the 2nd Gyeonggi-do Urban Agriculture Day celebrations, underscoring Sihung City's commitment to fostering green initiatives within its urban environment. Urban Agriculture Day, a meaningful date combining the vibrancy of April and the symbolic representation of soil (derived from the Korean characters for ten and one, resembling earth), was first championed by civic groups in 2015 and officially recognized as a national statutory anniversary in 2017. Following Seongnam City's successful hosting last year, Sihung City proudly takes the lead for the second annual provincial celebration.
The commemorative event promises a diverse array of activities designed to engage and educate attendees of all ages and experience levels. The program will feature the recognition of individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of urban agriculture, a collective reading of the urban farmer declaration, and a symbolic performance involving the planting of leafy vegetable seedlings. For those new to the world of urban farming, a dedicated garden counseling center will offer expert advice and guidance. Furthermore, seven operating organizations will conduct foundational educational sessions, and attendees will have the opportunity to explore urban agriculture equipment and learn more at the dedicated urban agriculture promotion hall.
A key highlight of the day will be the official opening of 17 ‘Happy Silver Gardens,’ providing senior citizens with dedicated spaces for gardening and community engagement. The event will also mark the inauguration of the ‘Children's Farmer School,’ fostering an early connection with nature and agricultural practices among the younger generation. These initiatives signify the 본격적인 (full-fledged) commencement of community-based urban farming activities within Sihung City. Adding to the experiential offerings, a ‘Plant Your Own Companion Plant’ activity will provide a hands-on therapeutic agriculture experience.
Sihung City currently manages 885 individual plots across three ‘Citizen Happiness Gardens,’ demonstrating its active pursuit of urban agriculture through collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors. These urban agriculture parks serve as vibrant community hubs, encouraging interaction, fostering a sense of consideration among neighbors, and strengthening community bonds through shared gardening experiences accessible to families.
Kim Ik-gyeom, Director of the Agricultural Technology Center, emphasized the broader vision behind these initiatives, stating, "By integrating urban agriculture into their daily lives, our citizens can contribute to a harmonious, nature-friendly environment where urban and rural areas mutually benefit. Sihung City is committed to implementing various policies that not only enhance the quality of life for our residents but also promote the long-term sustainability of future agriculture."
The Urban Agriculture Day celebration and the launch of these community garden initiatives underscore Sihung City's proactive stance in promoting urban green spaces, fostering community engagement, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for agriculture within its urban fabric. By providing resources, education, and opportunities for hands-on participation, Sihung City is nurturing a more sustainable and connected urban environment for its residents.
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