Goheung County Holds "First Auction" Wishing for a Bountiful Kelp Harvest

Expectations for Increasing Fishermen's Income

Goheung County in South Jeolla Province (Governor Gong Youngmin) announced on June 4 that it held the "2025 Dried Kelp First Auction" at the Goheung County Fisheries Cooperative Ocheon Kelp Auction Market, officially starting the shipment of this year's dried kelp.

The event was attended by about 100 people, including Governor Gong Youngmin, Lee Hongjae, head of the Goheung County Fisheries Cooperative, and local fishermen. The first auction of Goheung dried kelp was held, with participants wishing for the safety and well-being of the fishermen this year.

Goheung County held the "2025 Dried Kelp First Auction" on the 4th at the Goheung County Fisheries Cooperative Ocheon Kelp Auction Market, officially starting the shipment. Photo by Goheung County

Goheung kelp is known for its deep color and excellent quality, thanks to natural conditions such as sunlight and sea breeze, making it highly popular for use in broths. In particular, its texture and umami flavor are considered superior to those of products from other regions, leading to high consumer preference.

Kelp is also rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, and dietary fiber, making it excellent for obesity prevention. As a low-calorie food, it is effective for dieting, and it helps expel bad cholesterol, contributing to the prevention of hyperlipidemia. For these reasons, it is recognized as a highly beneficial health food.

Governor Gong Youngmin attended the first auction and said, "I would like to thank the fishermen and related officials for their hard work. We will continue to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Goheung kelp to help increase fishermen's income. I will also do my best to contribute to the development of the local economy by revitalizing the seaweed industry in the future."

Meanwhile, last year, Goheung County recorded 502 tons and 4 billion won in dried kelp auction sales, and this year, production is expected to reach a similar level of about 500 tons.