Shin Euijoon, Jeonnam Provincial Council Member: "Abalone Farming... Crisis Due to Overproduction"

Proposal for Improvement of Abalone Aquaculture Industry Officially Submitted

Shin Euijoon, a member of the South Jeolla Provincial Council (Democratic Party of Korea, Wando 2), announced on the 18th that the 'Proposal to Urge Improvement of Abalone Aquaculture Facilities,' which he initiated to overcome the crisis in abalone farming, has passed the plenary session of the South Jeolla Provincial Council.

According to Councilor Shin, while domestic abalone aquaculture production was only about 20 tons in 2000, it increased to 21,964 tons in 2022. However, repeated cycles of oversupply and mass shipments have led to a decline in farm prices, and issues such as poor water circulation due to dense farming and the deterioration of fishing ground environments have caused significant difficulties for fishermen.

Shin Eejun, Jeonnam Provincial Assembly Member

Councilor Shin stated, "Abalone is so nutritionally excellent that it is called the 'wild ginseng of the sea,' but in the past, its high price made it difficult for the public to access." He continued, "Since the development of mass aquaculture technology using cages in 2001, abalone production has increased explosively, making it a seafood enjoyed by everyone." However, he argued that abalone is now facing a structural crisis due to overproduction, falling farm prices, and environmental deterioration caused by dense aquaculture.

He went on to say, "We must quickly establish institutional improvements and support measures for the sustainable development of the abalone industry," pointing out, "If the current situation continues, the Wando region, which accounts for over 70% of the nation's abalone production, will suffer significant damage, and the entire domestic abalone industry could face a serious crisis."

He further urged, "To improve the fishing ground environment, we must actively promote the 'fishing ground relocation project,' which moves aquaculture license areas with reduced productivity to waters with better water circulation, and reduce densely packed aquaculture facilities." He also called for comprehensive solutions, including the removal of abandoned cage facilities, support for fishermen's career changes, and measures to stabilize livelihoods.