Boseong County, September 2024 – The FAO's Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) program played a pivotal role in the recent international seminar on Boseong Tidal Flat Fishing, held in the Republic of Korea. The event, part of the Korea Important Fisheries Heritage Systems (KIFHS) Festival, highlighted the importance of traditional fishing methods as a cornerstone for sustainable development in the face of climate change.

The seminar, organized from September 5-6, 2024, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including local communities, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, and research institutes, all aiming to strengthen the conservation of Boseong’s Neolbae (wooden plank boat) fishing system. This centuries-old practice was recognized for its ecological and cultural significance, with discussions focusing on its potential designation as a GIAHS site.

FAO’s GIAHS Secretariat Programme Specialist, Aurelie Fernandez, lauded the Republic of Korea's dedication to preserving its fisheries heritage, noting the country’s leadership in sustainable fisheries management with seven existing GIAHS sites. Fernandez highlighted the ongoing collaboration between GIAHS and Korea’s National Important Fisheries Heritage Systems (KIFHS) as essential to promoting biodiversity and traditional knowledge in fisheries and agriculture.

Focus on Climate Resilience

Amid the discussions, a key theme was the urgent need to adapt traditional fisheries like Boseong’s to the growing threats posed by climate change. FAO representatives stressed the importance of building resilience in local communities while safeguarding their unique heritage systems, which are vital for maintaining biodiversity and sustainable food production