One of the key features of this new complex is the Subtropical Agriculture Center, named “Olim.” Designed as a response to the rising average temperatures caused by global warming, the facility houses over 50 types of subtropical crops. The selection of plants includes bananas, olives, and coffee trees—species that are increasingly viable in Korea’s warming climate. The center’s Venlo-style glass greenhouses, covering 1,520 square meters, create a controlled environment ideal for showcasing these crops and educating visitors on the future of agriculture in the face of climate change.
Subtropical crops, once rare in South Korea, are gaining importance as the country’s climate becomes more conducive to their cultivation. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, South Korea’s average temperature has risen by about 1.6°C over the past century, with a noticeable impact on farming practices. The “Olim” center provides a critical platform for both research and practical applications in growing subtropical plants, which could become more prominent in local agriculture in the coming decades.
Wellness Through Nature: The Healing Agriculture Center “Naeim”
In addition to subtropical agriculture, the complex also focuses on the growing field of healing agriculture with the Healing Agriculture Center, named “Naeim.” This facility is designed to offer a sanctuary for those seeking relief from the stresses of modern life. The greenhouse contains over 30 species of plants, including herbs and air-purifying plants, and is equipped with spaces for horticultural therapy workshops.
Horticultural therapy, which involves using plants and gardening activities for therapeutic benefits, is gaining traction worldwide as an effective way to improve mental health. Programs at the “Naeim” center will be available not only to farmers but also to the general public, offering them a space to engage with nature, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being. Studies have shown that interacting with plants can lower blood pressure, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function, making facilities like “Naeim” valuable resources for community health.
A New Agricultural Hub: The New Agriculture Innovation Town
The new agriculture complex is part of Gyeongju’s broader vision for an integrated agricultural innovation hub known as the New Agriculture Innovation Town. In addition to the “Olim” and “Naeim” greenhouses, the complex will host the Smart Agriculture Education Center, named “Baeum,” and the crop-specific experimental test plots, named “Kium.” These facilities will provide training and research opportunities for farmers, agronomists, and agricultural engineers, ensuring that local agriculture remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
The innovation town is expected to become a key player in regional agricultural development, offering a blend of education, research, and community engagement. Mayor Joo Nak-young emphasized that the town will not only serve as an agricultural research and testing site but also as a place where citizens can learn about and enjoy agriculture. This multi-functional approach positions the innovation town as a model for future agricultural developments that integrate education, wellness, and sustainability.
Gyeongju’s New Subtropical and Healing Agriculture Center is more than just a farming facility; it is a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community well-being. By adapting to climate change with the cultivation of subtropical crops and promoting mental health through horticultural therapy, the center is set to play a significant role in the future of agriculture in South Korea. As part of the broader New Agriculture Innovation Town, it will serve as a vital resource for both farmers and the general public, fostering a deeper connection to the land and the healing power of nature.
