FARMER'S NETWORK - HWACHEON
As we traveled to various regions to meet with expert farmers and seed researchers, we developed a keen awareness of the dangers of seed monopolization. At the same time, we came to realize the critical importance of native seeds. To spread this message, we initiated a project focused on young farmers who are new to agriculture. We set out to understand what kind of support they need and the specific difficulties they face, especially those cultivating native varieties. To facilitate a project where these farmers can be networked to help one another, we have met with five young farmers from across the country.
HWAMOK KIM - HWACHEON
In Hwacheon, Gangwon-do, young farmer Kim Hwa-mok has been dedicated to agriculture since a very young age, currently focusing on cucumbers as his main crop. He, too, has experimented with native seeds to help preserve their lineage, but has temporarily paused these trials to concentrate on his primary farming operations. Looking ahead, Kim Hwa-mok holds a remarkable ambition: to one day open his own restaurant, crafting a menu that features crops grown from these very native seeds.
Q&A CHAT BOT FOR FARMERS
To make this wisdom more accessible, we’ve also developed an AI-powered Q&A chatbot based on our growing database. Visitors can ask questions about seed types, cultivation techniques, and ecological farming practices. If the chatbot cannot provide a detailed answer, your question will be forwarded to our connected farmers and agricultural experts, who will respond directly through our Q&A section. This is a space built not only to inform, but to connect people—to the land, to each other, and to the future of food.
FARMERS NETWORK
Unlocked Farms Network
Unloced Farms Network represents a growing network of farmers across the Korean peninsula who are working to protect seed sovereignty and revive native crops. Each point marks a farmer, a seed keeper, or a collective who generously shared their experiences and resources for a future where seeds remain in the hands of the people against corporate seed monopolies.
To make this wisdom more accessible, we’ve also developed an AI-powered Q&A chatbot based on our growing database. Visitors can ask questions about seed types, cultivation techniques, and ecological farming practices. If the chatbot cannot provide a detailed answer, your question will be forwarded to our connected farmers and agricultural experts, who will respond directly through our Q&A section. This is a space built not only to inform, but to connect people—to the land, to each other, and to the future of food.
In Pyeongchang, a young farmer continues her family’s legacy by growing native Darae and Myeongi-namul. Her mission is to raise awareness so Darae is properly recognized and appreciated by the public.
In Hwacheon, Gangwon-do, young farmer Kim Hwa-mok has focused on cucumbers while also experimenting with native seeds to help preserve them. Though these trials are currently on hold, he dreams of opening a restaurant someday—serving dishes made with crops grown from those very seeds.
In Buyeo, young rice farmer Jung Ju-yong once experimented with native beans but returned to rice due to financial constraints. His passion for farming, sparked during his university volunteer work, remains strong.
In Cheongju, young farmer Choi Do-hyun runs a greenhouse for European salad greens, continuing his father's legacy after pursuing various paths. Proud of his role, he hopes to expand into a wider variety of crops.
In Sunchang, young farmer Kim Hyun-hee preserves native seeds through a local collective. Starting with no inheritance and driven by a love for farming, she now supports herself through agriculture and aspires to grow even further.
The interview highlighted Jeju’s advantages for golden kiwi farming, key challenges, and the need for better support in education, networks, and seed access.
