Busan Metropolitan City is embarking on a heartwarming initiative to support the emotional well-being of multicultural families and vulnerable populations. The Busan Agricultural Technology Center announced on July 5, 2026, that it will operate a "Therapeutic Agriculture Program" from July 7 to September 1. This initiative aims to alleviate stress and provide much-needed psychological stability for participants. 

Cultivating Connection and Stability

In partnership with local organizations, the center has planned 10 sessions tailored for 200 individuals. By utilizing nature and plant-based activities, the program serves as a "non-pharmacological" form of psychological support, helping participants navigate the challenges of daily life and social adaptation.

The curriculum is thoughtfully divided by the season to offer diverse experiences:

July Highlights: Focuses on creative activities such as building terrariums, creating potted houseplant arrangements, crafting pressed flower keyrings and frames, and even making seasonal flower-based beverages (hwachae) at centers like the Sasang-gu Family Center and the Asia Community School.
August–September Highlights: Shifts to schools and centers including the Busan Overseas Chinese Middle and High School and the Global International School, featuring sessions on hydroponic gardening and creating "preserved flower" mood lights.
Why Therapeutic Agriculture Matters
Therapeutic agriculture (or horticultural therapy) is defined as an industry that utilizes agricultural and rural resources to improve the physical, emotional, and social health of the public. For multicultural families, who may face unique stressors related to social integration, cultural adaptation, and relationship building, this program offers significant benefits:

Emotional Resilience: Gardening and plant care are proven to reduce cortisol levels, ease anxiety, and boost mood by releasing serotonin. 
Social Belonging: Group activities foster teamwork, communication, and a sense of community, which are essential for those feeling socially isolated. 
Holistic Recovery: Research indicates that such programs significantly improve family communication, parental mental health, and the emotional intelligence of children. 
The Busan Agricultural Technology Center expects these sessions to do more than just grow plants; they aim to cultivate a sense of belonging and community strength. Moving forward, the city plans to expand these customized therapeutic programs to reach a broader range of citizens in need of healing and connection. 

Understanding Therapeutic Agriculture

Therapeutic agriculture is an evidence-based approach gaining global recognition. Whether it is through structured clinical programs or informal gardening, the act of nurturing a living thing helps ground individuals in the present, providing a "green" refuge from the stresses of urban life. By integrating these activities into social services, Busan is taking a proactive step toward creating a more inclusive and resilient society where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive.

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