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South Korean farmland ownership investigation

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2026-09-17 22:26 UTC → 2026-09-18 09:35 UTC · added ~~removed~~

A South Korean government investigation into farmland ownership, intended to ensure that those who cultivate the land are its owners, has triggered significant social and political tension. In rural regions such as Gyeongbuk, the probe has raised concerns regarding ‘clan land’ (munjung nongji), where traditional family lineage management conflicts with rigid ownership enforcement. There are fears that strict application of the rules could deprive actual farmers of their livelihoods. Additionally, the investigation has prompted non-resident heirs to sell small inherited plots to avoid administrative complexities, a trend contributing to ‘Gyeongja-silhyang’ and accelerating rural depopulation. The issue has escalated into a political dispute. The People Power Party has called for a halt to the investigation, labeling it ‘desk administration’ that ignores the realities of elderly and tenant farmers while causing farmland prices to drop. Conversely, the Democratic Party of Korea has argued that the probe should focus on punishing land speculation while providing guidance for minor violations, accusing the opposition of inciting unnecessary anxiety among farmers. President Lee Jae-myung recently addressed the controversial nationwide farmland survey during a press conference. While the administration faces criticism from opposition leaders for failing to address core public concerns regarding real estate, the President’s remarks have been met with sharp criticism from opposition leaders who describe his stance as lacking accountability.

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