The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will start recruiting candidates for the “2025 Aquaculture Rental Project” from March 19, aimed at supporting young people and returning fishermen in entering the aquaculture industry. This project is operated by renting out existing aquaculture farms acquired by public institutions, and offering support for half of the rental fees.
Previously, there were significant barriers to entering the aquaculture industry. One had to become a member of a fishing village community or invest a large initial capital to acquire a private aquaculture farm. In response, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries amended the relevant law in August 2023 to introduce an aquaculture farm rental system through public institutions. Last year, ten young people and returning fishermen took on the challenge of entering the aquaculture industry through this system.
This year, 24 aquaculture farms for various species including shrimp, mullet, abalone, oysters, and clams are prepared. Additional rental aquaculture farms are also being secured, with the recruitment targeting 10 participants. Any young people, returning fishermen, and successor fishermen interested in starting an aquaculture business can apply.
To support settlement, the Ministry plans to provide housing using government subsidy projects, prioritizing returning fishermen at some aquaculture farms in Taean and Seosan, Chungnam. Applications can be submitted on the Korea Fisheries Infrastructure Association’s website (www.fipa.or.kr), where applicants can also check the status and expected rental costs of the aquaculture farms.
The selection process involves document screening and interviews to select the final candidates, followed by signing a lease agreement with the Korea Fisheries Infrastructure Association for the aquaculture farms.
Kang Do-hyung, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, stated, “For the development of the aquaculture industry, it is important for more young people and returning fishermen to settle stably in fishing villages. We will continue to work towards creating a good life in fishing villages with open opportunities through various policies.”
