Haman-gun Accepts Applications for Participation in the '1st National Watermelon Quality Contest'

Applications Open for Watermelon Farming Households Nationwide Until the 19th

Haman-gun, Gyeongnam Province announced on the 9th that it will hold the 1st National Watermelon Evaluation Contest on the 26th of this month, with applications being accepted until the 19th.

The 1st National Watermelon Evaluation Contest aims to lead the development of the watermelon industry in Korea and to enhance the unity and pride of watermelon producers nationwide.

The event will be held on the first day, the 26th, of the ‘5th Korea Haman Watermelon Festival,’ which takes place over three days from the 26th to the 28th at the multipurpose lawn field in Hamju Park.

Eligibility to participate is limited to watermelon-producing farmers nationwide. Applicants must be recommended by the president of their respective provincial watermelon producers’ association and submit their application to the Haman Watermelon Festival Committee by the 19th. Watermelons can be shipped by courier by the 25th or brought in person by 10 a.m. on the 26th for entry.

The judging panel consists of nine judges from watermelon-related organizations nationwide who will conduct a strict and fair evaluation of the watermelons based on overall taste, sweetness, and appearance. Ten points will be awarded in the premium watermelon category, and one point will be awarded in the king watermelon size category, selecting a total of 11 points across the two categories.

The awards ceremony, including the grand prize (with a prize of 2 million KRW), will be held at 3 p.m. on the 26th on a special stage at the event venue.

Additionally, the ‘5th Korea Haman Watermelon Festival’ will offer various events and experiences befitting Korea’s representative watermelon, creating a harmonious space where tourists and local residents can come together.

Kang Dae-hoon, chairman of the Haman Watermelon Festival Committee, said, “We hope this national watermelon evaluation contest will serve as an opportunity for watermelon producers across the country to unite and promote excellent watermelons to consumers,” adding, “We will prepare this event to boost the pride of watermelon farmers and to enhance the meaning and value of the Korea Haman Watermelon Festival.”