Statistics Korea Launches Population, Housing, and Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Census

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyun-jung] On the 26th, Statistics Korea held a plaque ceremony for the '2020 Population and Housing and Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Census Headquarters' and convened a meeting of provincial and city officers, officially beginning preparations for the 2020 Census. The 2020 Population and Housing and Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Census is led by Statistics Korea and conducted by local governments, with the headquarters responsible for manpower mobilization, training, publicity, and safety management.

The meeting of provincial and city officers, composed of planning and coordination office directors and bureau chiefs from local governments, discussed the comprehensive promotion direction of the "2020 Population and Housing and Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Census" and also deliberated on expanding non-face-to-face survey methods to prepare for the spread of COVID-19, foot-and-mouth disease, and other possible outbreaks during the census period.

The nationwide census, starting from November 1, plans to actively utilize administrative data to minimize the response burden on citizens while expanding non-face-to-face survey methods such as internet surveys (PC, mobile) and telephone surveys, allowing participation regardless of time and place.

Kang Shin-wook, Commissioner of Statistics Korea, stated, "The census conducted this year is the most important survey providing statistical data that forms the basis for national and regional policies," adding, "We are making thorough preparations, including expanding non-face-to-face survey methods in cooperation with local governments so that people can participate safely in the survey. We ask for the public's great interest and active participation."