Gwangju city has signed a geo-partner agreement with Mudeungsan Watermelon Producers Association to promote the local economy revitalization, expected to increase Gwangju city brand value.
Mudeungsan watermelon is registered as a geofood in the UNESCO Global Geopark in the Mudeungsan area. It is the 8th GEOfood product traditional tofu, straw fire pork belly, boiled rice, lotus leaf tea, and herbal tea
‘GEOfood’ is an international initiative to promote local food within UNESCO Global Geoparks. It applies international brands to agricultural products, food, and beverages grown or produced in geopark areas to increase the competitiveness of geopark foods, sustainability and promote mutual promotion between member geoparks.
Mudeungsan UNESCO Global Geopark became the first in Korea to join the GEOfood network in 2021, contributing greatly to the participation of Cheongsong World Geopark and Hantangang World Geopark. To date, a total of 28 global geoparks in 19 countries have joined the Geofood Network.
The city plans to tell the story of ‘Puraengi’, a watermelon grown only in Gwangju, expanding its reputation around the world, revitalizing the local economy, and raising the brand value of Gwangju city.
Mudeungsan watermelon is a luxury watermelon that is overwhelmingly larger than regular watermelons and has a great flavor, and was the only real product in Gwangju presented to the king. However, due to the decrease in the number of production farms and difficult cultivation conditions, the tradition is in danger of being cut off.
In this agreement, Gwangju City and the Mudeung Mountain Watermelon Producers Association will consult with each other in the process of developing and producing products using Mudeung Mountain watermelons, and will develop and operate product production and experience programs, and promote multifaceted promotional activities.
Song Yong-soo, Director of the Climate and Environment Bureau of Gwangju City, said, “Mudeungsan Watermelon is the only watermelon in the world that is qualified as a World Geopark, and it has ample potential value.” He added, “Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark, which is owned by residents through active communication with local residents.” “We will develop it and become a world example,” he said.
