South Korean expo showcases rural return programs for urban dwellers

South Korea is actively promoting rural living and farming through initiatives showcased at the '2026 A FARM SHOW' in Seoul, an expo designed to connect urban dwellers with opportunities in the countryside. The event saw 55 local governments present comprehensive programs and personalized consultations, catering to a diverse range of individuals seeking a change in lifestyle.

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I came from Daejeon to get information about support for young people returning to the countryside in Jecheon, Chungcheongbuk-do.

Visitors, from young adults planning future farming careers to seniors considering retirement in rural settings, explored options ranging from accommodation support and agricultural training to financial assistance for machinery purchases. Jecheon city, for example, offers young returnees six months of free accommodation and up to nine months of training at its agricultural start-up center. Similarly, Yeoju City provides subsidies of up to 50% for young farmers aged 18-39 to buy equipment.

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I plan to return to farming in about 3-4 years, and since it's an important decision, I've researched it thoroughly. I'm very interested because Jecheon city offers a lot of support and benefits for young people returning to farming.

Local governments are increasingly focusing on making the transition to rural life appealing and manageable. This includes offering "trial run" tourism programs that allow potential returnees to experience rural activities firsthand, such as making traditional foods in villages like Gamgok in Gyeongnam Province. The establishment of dedicated support centers, like the upcoming Jeju Province Rural Return & Farming Support Center, aims to provide a holistic approach, encompassing consultation, education, mentorship, and community integration.

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I was interested in returning to the countryside in Muan-gun and Wando-gun in Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Special City, so I visited the A FARM SHOW to gather information. I looked around the booths to see if there were any rural return programs for seniors over 70.

These efforts reflect a broader national strategy to revitalize rural areas, address demographic shifts, and encourage a sustainable lifestyle. By offering tailored support and attractive programs, South Korean authorities hope to draw more people, particularly the younger generation, back to the countryside, fostering economic development and preserving regional vitality.

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I love traveling domestically and have always been interested in life in the provinces. I thought it would be good to have information about returning to the countryside in advance. It was also good to get information about relaxation-type programs.