70 Percent of National Production...
Kickstarting the Production of Wellness Rice
Boseong County in Jeollanam-do announced on the 18th that the first rice planting for the 2025 crop of Ungchi Olbyeossal was carried out on the 17th at the farm of Park Sunseon in Daesan-ri, Ungchi-myeon.
Starting with this first planting, the county plans to have about 120 farms cultivate Ungchi Olbyeossal on a total area of 130 hectares (ha) by early May, with harvesting scheduled for mid-August.
Boseong County began the first rice planting on the 17th and plans to cultivate Ungchi Olbyeossal rice on a total of 130 hectares by early May across approximately 120 farms. Harvesting will begin in mid-August. Provided by Boseong County
'Ungchi Olbyeossal' is characterized by beginning its rice planting around mid-April, about two weeks earlier than regular rice, and by harvesting only selected glutinous rice before it is fully ripe.
The harvested rice is steamed in a traditional iron cauldron and then sun-dried, a traditional processing method that maximizes the unique flavor and nutritional value of the rice.
In particular, 'Ungchi Olbyeossal' is produced not only as rice for consumption but also processed into various foods such as Nurungji, snacks, and powdered grain drinks, gaining attention as a high-quality wellness food tailored to modern dietary lifestyles.
Additionally, it is gaining nationwide popularity as a functional rice known for its anti-cancer and diet benefits, making it a popular choice for holiday gifts and healthy snacks.
'Ungchi Olbyeossal' has been recognized for its excellence, being registered as No. 71 in the Agricultural Product Geographical Indication in 2010, and now accounts for more than 70% of the total Olbyeossal production in Korea, firmly establishing itself as a representative regional specialty crop.
Lee Seongho, head of Ungchi-myeon, said, "Farmers are facing hardships due to falling rice prices and the adjustment of rice cultivation areas, but we will turn this crisis into an opportunity through the solidarity and wisdom of local farmers." He added, "I hope Ungchi Olbyeossal will become more widely known to consumers nationwide and be reborn as Korea's representative functional rice."
Meanwhile, Boseong Ungchi Olbyeossal and related products can be purchased at Boseong Mall, the county's online direct sales market.
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