Jeongseon-gun Drives Agricultural Mechanization – 70% of Potato Farming Equipment Shared to Tackle Labor Shortages

Jeongseon-gun in Gangwon Province, South Korea, is advancing a “Field Agriculture Mechanization Support Project” specifically for potato farming, aimed at boosting regional agricultural competitiveness and addressing severe rural labor shortages. The local government has allocated a total of 1.1 billion won (including national funds) for this initiative, which will be implemented across three agricultural enterprises by the end of this year. The project involves purchasing essential potato cultivation equipment—including 15 types of machinery such as tractors—and offering them for long-term rental. Notably, 70% of the machinery is designated for shared use, a strategy designed to maximize equipment utilization, reduce individual farm costs, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Earlier, in late April, a potato planter demonstration was held in Bongjeong-ri, Yeran-myeon, alongside the opening of an agricultural machinery rental center. These efforts are complemented by technical guidance and safety management training for farmers. Lee Gyeong-cheon, Director of the Jeongseon-gun Agricultural Technology Center, emphasized that field mechanization is no longer an option but a necessity. By adopting a sharing-oriented mechanization model, the county aims to sustainably enhance agricultural productivity and efficiency while supporting local potato growers and strengthening the rural economy.