"K-Gokseong Melon" Begins First Shipment of the Year

"Regional Agricultural Pride"
Accelerating Overseas Exports

'K-Gokseong Melon' First Shipment of the Year.

Gokseong County in South Jeolla Province (Governor Cho Sangrae) announced that its signature agricultural specialty, the Gokseong Melon, began its first shipment of the year on May 9. The Gokseong Melon, a representative crop of the region, has received great love from consumers nationwide every year, and this year it is once again drawing attention for its exceptional sweetness and quality.

The county attributes the outstanding sweetness and quality of the Gokseong Melon to the region’s optimal geographic environment for melon cultivation, including soil rich in organic matter, abundant sunlight, and large temperature differences between day and night. In addition, a systematic management system covering every stage from seedling cultivation to harvest and sorting has further strengthened the foundation for high-quality production. Currently, about 280 farmers are cultivating melons, with a total cultivation area of 116 hectares, establishing the melon as Gokseong’s representative high-income crop.

The county is providing a variety of administrative support to foster Gokseong Melon as a “premium brand crop.” Practical support is being provided to both growers and the distribution infrastructure, including subsidies for packaging materials for joint sorting, distribution and logistics costs, direct payment for export-specialized agricultural and fisheries products, and alternative support for export logistics costs.

Building on this foundation, the county is accelerating its efforts to enter overseas markets under the “K-Gokseong Melon” brand, aiming to go beyond its existing premium brand status. Last year, the county exported 72 tons (worth $170,000) to East Asian markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia, showcasing its excellence to the world.

With the start of this year’s shipment, Gokseong Melon will be harvested and sold in earnest through August. The county plans to expand its reach to consumers through a variety of marketing activities both online and offline.

A county official stated, “Gokseong Melon is more than just a fruit; it is a symbol of the region’s agricultural competitiveness and pride. We will continue our efforts to create a sustainable agricultural environment and contribute to revitalizing the local economy.”