Jeonnam-Gwangju agricultural and fishery industry growth

The Jeonnam-Gwangju region has experienced significant growth in its agricultural and fishery sectors. Through July 2026, regional exports of these products reached a record $676.27 million, a 10% increase from the previous year and a 53.1% increase over the last three years. Seaweed (gim) emerged as a primary driver, accounting for $289.60 million of the total export value.

This export success is mirrored by record-breaking seafood processing production in the region, which reached 2.6397 trillion KRW. This value represents 29.8% of South Korea’s total seafood processing production, maintaining the region’s national ranking for six consecutive years. The surge in production value was largely driven by seaweed products, specifically dried and seasoned seaweed, which helped offset volume declines in other categories like squid and kelp caused by high water temperatures.

While seaweed remains a dominant economic force, other sectors face difficulties. In Wando, the abalone industry is struggling with falling prices, rising operational costs, and slowing consumption despite increased production levels.