51 Billion Won Invested Over 3 Years in Odeok and Tapjeong Villages, Gibuk-myeon
Introduction of New Varieties, Disaster Prevention Facilities, and ICT
Strengthening Climate Crisis Response
Odeok and Tapjeong villages in Gibuk-myeon, Buk-gu, Pohang City, have been finally selected for the '2026 Smart Orchard Specialized Complex Development Project' organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
The Smart Orchard Specialized Complex Development Project aims to enhance the competitiveness of the fruit industry and respond to climate change by supporting the introduction of disaster-resistant new varieties, unmanned facilities, and shared equipment.
This selection marks the second consecutive year of achievement, following last year's selection of Sangok Village in Jukjang-myeon, Pohang City, which secured 2.7 billion won. Expectations are high that this will accelerate the structural improvement of Pohang's apple industry and the expansion of smart orchard infrastructure.
With this project, Pohang City will receive approximately 5.1 billion won in support over three years from 2026 to 2028, and will implement a smart orchard development project in the 21.7-hectare area covering Odeok and Tapjeong villages. The project includes variety conversion, disaster prevention facilities, ICT and unmanned equipment, as well as education and consulting.
Currently, 89% of Pohang's apple cultivation area is planted with late-maturing varieties, of which 87% are Fuji types. Through this project, large-scale introduction of new varieties such as Easyple, Summer Prince, Golden Ball, and Huvelux is expected to further diversify varieties and strengthen the region's ability to respond to the climate crisis.
Additionally, disaster prevention facilities to protect against hail and cold damage will be established, helping to provide a stable production base and reduce price volatility.
Lee Hyunju, Director of the Agricultural Technology Center, stated, "With the selection of this national project, we have established a foundation for supplying new apple varieties with excellent sweetness and acidity. By switching to varieties that reflect changing consumer preferences and adopting smart orchard technologies, we will increase farmers' incomes and focus administrative efforts on making Pohang the center of smart orchards."
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