Food Crop Science II

Abstract

Historically, it has been said that "Agriculture is the foundation of the nation" (農者天下之大本), signifying that the stability and sustenance of a nation rely heavily on agriculture and its farmers. In ancient times, when a good harvest led to population growth and a poor harvest caused widespread unrest, it was naturally accepted that agriculture was the cornerstone of the nation. Among all forms of agriculture, the cultivation of staple crops, particularly those grown in rice paddies and dry fields, was essential for ensuring the prosperity and stability of the people, which in turn led to effective governance. This saying emphasizes not only the importance of agriculture but also the critical dependence on food crops. Recent events, such as the rise in wheat prices due to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, and the instability of rice prices following the COVID-19 pandemic, indicate that concerns about food security and potential crises will persist. In South Korea, where approximately 63% of the 10 million hectares of land is forested and urbanization has reduced arable land to 16%, the loss of agricultural land is a pressing issue as once lost, it is difficult to restore. Given the increasing need for forage crops, the significance of dry field farming (전작) cannot be overstated. The foundation is paramount; food must take precedence over all else. Additionally, the necessity of producing high-quality agricultural products for health is self-evident. It is imperative not to overlook the importance of agronomy, the science of producing clean, safe, and stable food, and the gratitude and consideration owed to farmers who produce these essential crops. The study of food crops can be broadly divided into two categories: Food Crop Science I, which focuses on rice, and Food Crop Science II, which covers the cultivation, processing, and distribution of barley, wheat, soybeans, corn, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. The former is referred to as paddy field farming (水稻作), while the latter is known as dry field farming (田作). This classification reflects the climatic conditions in Korea, where agricultural practices are divided between irrigated fields and non-irrigated fields. Korea is also the place of origin for barley and soybeans, both of which are crucial for balanced nutrition when consumed with rice. Although soybean rice has a somewhat negative image, it is an excellent balance of carbohydrates and proteins. If Koreans embrace mixed grain and soybean rice, it is anticipated that the nation will soon achieve the status of the world’s longest-living population. For true stability and healthy happiness to be realized, the industrial and service sectors must rest upon the foundation of agriculture. As of 2020, the proportion of agricultural income in South Korea accounted for only 2.5% of the total national income. The total agricultural income stood at 50 trillion won, while the importation of agricultural products amounted to 40 trillion won, threatening the nation’s self-sufficiency. Among this, the income from food crops was a mere 10 trillion won, with rice accounting for 8 trillion won and dry field crops only 2 trillion won. The proportion of production among major staple crops is overwhelmingly dominated by rice, which accounts for 88% of the total, followed by soybeans at 4%, and corn at 2%. Most other grains constitute less than 1% of the total production. Consequently, the import volume of staple grains, in the order of wheat, corn, soybeans, and rice, has reached 5.3 million tons, with an expenditure exceeding 20 billion KRW, making South Korea one of the world’s top five grain importers. The self-sufficiency rate for food, including forage crops, remains a mere 23%. There is an urgent need for diversification and mechanization of crops. While the mechanization rate for rice, a paddy crop, stands at 98%, the rate for dry field crops lags behind at 64%. Although it is impossible to return to a time when rice was considered sacred and food was an absolute necessity, neglecting the current food scarcity situation could eventually lead to a severe crisis. Even setting aside arguments concerning food security, it is essential for the nation and all those involved in agriculture to work together to achieve at least minimal self-sufficiency and sustainability. Advanced nations, including the United States, Europe, and Japan, are distinguished by their advanced agricultural sectors. However, several studies have pointed out that South Korea currently has one of the lowest levels of national support for agriculture and one of the highest levels of negative public perception of the industry. If asked what is most important and what we live for, I would unequivocally assert that producing and consuming good food is essential for living a healthy and happy life. This principle applies even to global leaders in industries such as Samsung Electronics in semiconductors and Hyundai Motor Company in automobiles. If one is hungry and unhealthy, it is hard to imagine deriving happiness from anything else. Whether we eat to live or live to eat, these questions become mere wordplay in the face of food scarcity. Confidence and industrial development can only be considered once basic sustenance is secured. The key is to eat well, and at the heart of this is the cultivation of staple crops. Although it may seem mundane, I emphasize that the most profound and noble philosophical value lies in the production of food. As the global population continues to grow and instability increases, I ask for your understanding as I share a portion of my agricultural philosophy, which may seem simplistic and rooted in primary industry, in an effort to underscore the importance of agriculture and staple crops. Given the vast scope of this work, my limited knowledge has inevitably led to shortcomings in the content. I intend to revise and supplement it as opportunities arise, and I earnestly request your valuable feedback and insights at any time.