Damyang-gun Accelerates Development of Subtropical Vegetable Water Spinach

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yukbong] Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do (Governor Choi Hyung-sik) announced on the 8th that it has started developing cultivation technology for the subtropical vegetable "Gongsimchae," which is rich in iron and minerals, to respond to global warming and climate change and to discover new income crops for farmers.

Also called "Morning Glory," Gongsimchae is a popular vegetable commonly eaten in Southeast Asia and is not only used as food but also effectively used as an eco-friendly straw harmless to nature.

Widely cultivated across Southeast Asia and southern China, Gongsimchae grows well in hot and humid climates, thriving even during the rainy season or summer heatwaves. It is a healthy vegetable rich in vitamin A and iron, with a mild taste and aroma that anyone can enjoy without aversion.

The county is conducting on-site demonstration guidance for farmers cultivating Gongsimchae, benchmarking specialized restaurants, and conducting adaptability tests for cultivation during the strawberry fallow period.

Additionally, in collaboration with the Our Food Research Association, various Gongsimchae dishes are being developed and taste-tested, with plans to foster it as a niche crop responding to climate change through diverse research.

An official from the Agricultural Technology Center said, "We will strive to secure sales channels such as local food stores and expand cultivation areas so that Gongsimchae can grow into a new income crop for Damyang."