Young farmer embraces 'slow agriculture' in South Korean smart farm

In Goheung County, South Korea, 29-year-old Shin Jeong-bin is cultivating vegetables with a philosophy he calls "slow agriculture" on his 6,600-square-meter smart farm. Located near the coast, his farm, named Turtle Farm, utilizes advanced technology not to accelerate production, but to intentionally lengthen the growing cycle for his European salad and wrap vegetables.

Shin grows seven to eight varieties, including butterhead, frill ice, romaine, crispiana, and kaipira. He has chosen soil-based cultivation (토경재배) over hydroponics, emphasizing quality and a slower growth process, symbolized by the turtle carrying vegetables on his business card. This approach contrasts with the typical high-speed, high-yield methods often associated with smart farming.

His smart farm allows for remote management of the greenhouse environment, including roof vents, side windows, insulation, and shading nets, all controlled via smartphone. This technology significantly reduces the labor required, allowing Shin and his small team, which includes a young migrant worker from Nepal, to efficiently manage the farm's operations.

Despite the technological sophistication, Shin's focus remains on producing high-quality vegetables through a more natural, unhurried cultivation process. This dedication to "slow agriculture" aims to deliver superior taste and texture, differentiating his produce in the market.

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Even for the same European salad vegetables...