Hamyang-gun Fully Launches Production of Highest Quality Jirisan Hamyang Gotgam

Over 510 Farms Begin Crafting Premium Gotgam, Scheduled to Present to Consumers in Early December

Drying of gotgam (dried persimmons) in Hamyang, Gyeongnam.

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Choi Soon-kyung] As autumn deepens, about 510 farms in Hamyang-gun, Gyeongnam, have begun harvesting persimmons and are fully engaged in making Hamyang Gotgam, known for its top quality nationwide.

Jirisan Hamyang Gotgam starts with peeling the persimmons and drying them from early this month, and will be introduced to consumers from early December.

Hamyang Gotgam is produced under ideal natural conditions for drying persimmons, surrounded by Jirisan and Deogyusan mountains with large temperature differences between day and night, resulting in high sweetness and excellent taste. It has long been known as a royal tribute gift.

In particular, Hamyang Gotgam is designated as Forestry Administration Geographical Indication Registered Forest Product No. 39, guaranteeing its taste and quality.

Last year, Hamyang-gun produced 210,000 jeop (100 pieces per jeop) of Gotgam, generating 25 billion KRW in farm income. This year, favorable weather conditions during the drying period are expected, promising high-quality Gotgam production.

An official from the county stated, “During Gotgam drying, humidity in the drying facility should be maintained at 50?60% for two weeks after peeling to prevent mold, and care should be taken to avoid damage caused by low temperatures.”

Hamyang-gun plans to invest 1.1 billion KRW in modernizing drying facilities and supporting cold storage, dryers, and peeling machines. The Gotgam Festival to promote Hamyang Gotgam is scheduled to be held at the end of December.