Damyang County Provides On-Site Support for Farms Facing Labor Shortages

All Public Officials Join Rural Labor Support
University Students to Participate in Rural Volunteer Activities in June

Damyang County recently conducted a rural labor support activity by visiting farms struggling with labor shortages, with the participation of public officials. Photo by Damyang County

Damyang County, led by County Governor Jung Cheolwon, announced on May 30 that it is conducting a rural labor support campaign with the participation of all public officials to assist farms struggling with labor shortages during the busy farming season.

This initiative will run for about two months until June 30. Approximately 500 employees from various county offices and town and township offices are voluntarily participating, focusing on farms that are experiencing a shortage of labor. So far, around 160 people from 13 departments, including the Agricultural Distribution Division, have taken part in a variety of farm tasks such as removing strawberry seedlings, harvesting garlic, and weeding.

The county is also expanding youth participation. On June 5, about 100 students from Songwon University are scheduled to join rural volunteer activities in Bongsan-myeon. The county plans to connect these volunteer activities with farms that are in actual need of labor, providing practical support.

Mr. Kim, a garlic farmer in Daejeon-myeon, said, "After injuring my hand in a farm machinery accident in the past, it was daunting to farm alone, but the timely help from public officials was a great support," expressing his gratitude.

Governor Jung Cheolwon stated, "Last year, about 760 people participated in the labor support campaign, and there was a very positive response from the farms. We will continue to pursue on-site administration that shares and addresses the difficulties faced by farmers up close."

Meanwhile, the county is also promoting civilian labor support through the Rural Workforce Center. Last year, it provided support by connecting 6,923 people to 2,138 farms, and helped alleviate labor shortages by bringing in about 700 foreign seasonal workers.