Officials from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) visit Wando, a South Korean island considered to be a treasure trove of seaweed. (Image provided by Wando county)
WANDO, Nov. 4 (Korea Bizwire) – Wando County, South Korea’s premier marine products region, is gaining international recognition for its seaweed farming industry’s potential role in combating climate change through carbon sequestration.
The region, known for its pristine waters, produces 800,000 tons of seaweed annually – including kim (laver), miyeok, dashima (kelp), tot, and maesaengi – accounting for 50% of South Korea’s total seaweed production. Last year, the region exported 3,176 tons of seaweed products.
The area’s prominence in seaweed cultivation gained global attention in 2021 when NASA highlighted satellite images of Wando’s seaweed farms, noting the region’s optimal cultivation conditions, including moderate temperatures and tidal ranges, and its environmental sustainability.
Following NASA’s recognition, Wando has attracted visits from various international organizations and experts. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the World Bank, and seaweed cultivation specialists from the UK, Canada, and various NGOs have visited the region to study its farming practices.
In January, representatives from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) visited Wando to assess the site for a joint Korea-U.S. offshore seaweed farming technology system project planned for 2025-2029.
“The offshore seaweed farming system will serve as a foundation for developing the marine bio-industry and establishing seaweed as a recognized carbon sink,” said Shin Woo-cheol, the head of Wando County, on November 4.
The area’s prominence in seaweed cultivation gained global attention in 2021 when NASA highlighted satellite images of Wando’s seaweed farms. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Shin plans to visit NASA mid-month to discuss new blue carbon certification for seaweed and explore collaboration opportunities with ARPA-E on advanced cultivation technologies.
Wando County is actively developing its seaweed industry through various initiatives, including the development and distribution of superior seed varieties, advancement of offshore wind-powered cultivation technology, marine biomass fuel production, and the creation of health functional foods and pharmaceuticals.
The region has already demonstrated its leadership in the sector by hosting the world’s first International Seaweed Expo in 2014 and 2017, with a third expo planned for 2028.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
