Gangjin-gun Shines as a Model Case for Return-to-Farming and Return-to-Village Policies

Jeonnam-do Hosts Comprehensive Evaluation, Awarded 'Excellent Local Government' for 3 Consecutive Years

Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do, is attracting attention for being selected as an excellent local government for three consecutive years in the ‘2024 Jeollanam-do Comprehensive Evaluation of Returning to Farming, Fishing, and Rural Areas.’

According to the county on the 17th, Jeollanam-do evaluates the implementation and outcomes of policies related to returning to farming, fishing, and rural areas every year and selects outstanding cities and counties that have contributed to revitalizing agricultural and fishing villages. This year’s evaluation added communication among returning-to-farming-and-rural-area organizations and collaboration between central, provincial, and city/county governments, and Gangjin-gun achieved excellent results in these two categories.

Gangjin-gun has been selected as an excellent local government for three consecutive years in the comprehensive evaluation of return-to-farming and return-to-fishing villages conducted by Jeonnam Province. Photo by Gangjin-gun

In particular, by operating the ‘Comprehensive Counseling Platform for Returning to Farming and Rural Areas’ and holding the ‘Online Non-face-to-face Gangjin-gun Returning to Farming Policy Briefing,’ Gangjin accelerated digital transformation, provided real-time customized information, and actively promoted meetings with returnees to strengthen communication with local residents. All these efforts are promoting regional relocation and making returning to farming a more attractive choice.

Through various policies such as agricultural technology education, support for agricultural startups, and housing provision, Gangjin-gun helps returnees settle stably. It also provides practical experience through the residential-style Returning to Farming Academy and the ‘Living in Rural Areas’ program, laying an important foundation for successful settlement. Additionally, by participating in the ‘Returning to Farming and Rural Areas Expo’ held in the metropolitan area and the ‘Visiting Returning to Farming Policy Briefings,’ Gangjin has introduced its charm to urban residents, attracting much interest and recording additional consultations and a high revisit rate.

Choi Young-a, director of the Gangjin Agricultural Technology Center, said, “Gangjin-gun’s policies for returning to farming and rural areas have proven through this third consecutive award that they are not just short-term achievements but are leading new challenges and changes based on long-term stability. We will continue to strengthen cooperation between returnees and local residents and do our best to enable more people to start a new life in Gangjin through sustainable policies.”