Kim Wonyi Says "Path Opened for National Support of Gim Seed Industry"

'Partial Amendment to the Gim Industry Promotion Act' Passes the National Assembly
Full Support Expected for All Stages of Gim Production

Won Ki Kim

The partial amendment to the Act on the Promotion and Support of the Gim Industry, proposed by National Assembly member Kim Won (Secretary of the Trade, Industry, Energy, SMEs and Startups Committee, Mokpo City) of the Democratic Party of Korea, passed the National Assembly plenary session on the 2nd.

This amendment adds provisions to the current law, which already specifies technology development and support for Gim and Gim processed products, to also support the cultivation and production of Gim seeds. It also requires the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to include matters related to the support of Gim seed cultivation and production in the basic plan for Gim industry promotion, which is established and implemented every five years.

Recently, domestic Gim has gained worldwide popularity, standing out as a leading "K-food" product. According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Gim exports reached a record high, surpassing 1 trillion won for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024.

The Gim industry has become highly advanced, with the development and production of Gim seeds, raw Gim production, and the manufacturing and distribution of dried Gim each being specialized and divided among different sectors. However, there have been criticisms from the field that comprehensive research and development and support specifically tailored to Gim are lacking.

In particular, research and development and production support related to Gim seeds have lacked a legal basis, making it difficult to receive active support from the government.

Accordingly, the amendment clearly states that the government can support the cultivation and production of Gim seeds, the first stage of the Gim industry, allowing for a more systematic backing of the entire Gim production process.

Kim stated, "Last year, Mokpo City's Gim product exports reached 200 billion won, setting a new record and achieving the top spot in Gim exports nationwide. With the passage of this amendment, I hope that comprehensive promotion of the Gim industry, including the Gim seed sector, will help revitalize the local economy in Mokpo through expanded exports. I will also do my best to push for the establishment of Korea Gim Corporation."

Meanwhile, Kim is also considering proposing a bill to establish a dedicated organization, tentatively named "Korea Gim Corporation," in Jeollanam-do, which is responsible for about 80% of domestic Gim production, to ensure the sustainable growth of the Gim industry.