Song Mi-ryong, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, stated on October 13 that the government will focus on identifying land speculation while not penalizing common violations of land laws that have caused anxiety in the field.
During her appearance on KBS 1 Radio's 'Current Affairs', she emphasized, "The basic survey was completed at the end of July, and we are currently conducting field investigations, which we expect to wrap up by October."
The government is concentrating its investigation on four key areas: three types of speculation and significant illegal land use.
Song noted that cases involving inheritance, fallow land due to old age, leasing, and complex ownership of land, as well as land that is difficult to farm, will not be subject to penalties. She urged the use of dedicated consultation channels operated by the government and the Agricultural Bank, as well as communication with agricultural organizations, to alleviate concerns in the field.
She also explained that this survey will serve as an opportunity to reform the 'outdated land system' that has not kept pace with reality for 30 years.
"If we leave violations uncovered by this survey unaddressed, it would be tantamount to neglect. Therefore, we will implement a special measure law to provide a grace period for resolving current violations," she said. She added that plans are underway to amend the land law next year.
Regarding enforcement fines and penalty procedures, she clarified, "To issue a penalty order, we must go through a hearing and verification process. Fines will only be imposed if there is non-compliance with orders to cultivate fallow land." She dismissed rumors suggesting that the government is forcibly seizing land as unfounded.
Additionally, Minister Song addressed the issue of joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), acknowledging the high level of openness and the significant concerns within the agricultural sector. She stated, "We will not rush to conclusions and will restart discussions with the agricultural community to ensure their perspectives are fully represented in the government's position."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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