Expanding Korea–China Collaboration in Agricultural Engineering 🇰🇷🇨🇳

On the last day of August, as the summer break came to an end, Prof. Sang Min Kim president of Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers (KSAE) with his team visited the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering (CSAE) to discuss opportunities for strengthening collaboration with the KSAE.

In the afternoon, they visited China Agricultural University and participated in the CSAE–KSAE Joint Symposium under the theme “AI plus AE (Agricultural Engineering).”

China’s rapid technological development is also driving remarkable advances in agricultural engineering. We had the opportunity to hear presentations and engage in discussions on a wide range of topics, including cutting-edge technologies for smart agriculture, approaches to addressing climate change, recent developments in agricultural machinery and robotics, and BeiDou-based big data analysis.

Prof. Sang Min Kim also discussed ways to expand exchange programs among students and researchers. Looking ahead, CSAE will be invited to the 70th Anniversary of KSAE next year, where we hope to organize another joint symposium and further strengthen Korea–China academic collaboration.

Both socities will continue working toward building a more open and connected academic community by expanding international networks, fostering collaboration among professional societies, and creating more opportunities for researchers and students to learn and grow together.

#KSAE #CSAE #ChinaAgriculturalUniversity #AIplusAE #SmartAgriculture #AgriculturalEngineering #AgriculturalMachinery #Robotics #InternationalAcademicExchange #JointSymposium #KoreaChinaCollaboration

Participation in the 3rd Asia Parliamentarians’ Water Forum, Vientiane, Lao PDR

From July 28–30, Prof. Sang-min Kim participated in the 3rd Asia Parliamentarians’ Water Forum held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, in his capacity as President of the Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers (KSAE).

The forum brought together distinguished participants, including National Assembly members Jung-ae Han (Chair of the Forum), Joo-young Kim, Heo Young, and So-hee Kim, along with representatives from Korea's Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, public water-related organizations, industry leaders, and presidents of major academic societies.

A joint academic session involving universities in Lao PDR and Korean water-related academic societies provided an important platform to discuss the water challenges facing Laos while sharing perspectives on broader water resource issues across Asia. The session highlighted the importance of scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange in addressing regional water security.

As water challenges increasingly transcend national boundaries, regional cooperation has become essential. Korea continues to play a leading role in fostering dialogue and collaboration among Asian countries on sustainable water resource management, and this forum served as a meaningful platform for strengthening these partnerships.

Our laboratory, together with the Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers and other water-related academic societies, remains committed to advancing international collaboration and contributing to sustainable solutions for water challenges across Asia.

Participation in ASABE AIM 2026 US

Our lab head Prof. Sang Min Kim participated in the ASABE Annual International Meeting (AIM 2026), marking a return to this important conference after many years. During the meeting, Prof. Sang Min Kim attended the technical session organized by the Association of Korean Agricultural and Biological Faculty Engineers (AKABFE). He delivered remarks introducing the incoming President of the Korean Society for Agricultural and Biological Engineers (KSABE).

The conference also provided an opportunity to attend the student competition, where participants demonstrated outstanding presentation skills and impressive research excellence. Throughout the meeting, our lab engaged in technical discussions, business meetings, and networking events with researchers from around the world, exchanging new ideas and exploring opportunities for future collaboration.

Reflecting on the experience, it was especially meaningful to return to ASABE nearly 30 years after first attending the conference. We sincerely appreciate the efforts of the AKABFE organizing committee for hosting an excellent event and look forward to participating again next year.

#ASABE2026

Rural Water Forum Successfully Holds the 2nd Roundtable Meeting in 2026

The 2026 Rural Water Forum successfully held its Second Roundtable Meeting yesterday in Osong, Republic of Korea, bringing together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss key issues surrounding rural water management and sustainable agricultural development.

During the preparation of this year's forum, the Korean government announced the Southwestern Semiconductor Cluster Development Plan, a major national initiative expected to have significant implications for regional water resources. In response, the forum promptly added a special session to examine the potential impacts of the project on agricultural water management. Participants engaged in productive discussions after hearing updates from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) and the Korea Rural Community Corporation (KRC) regarding current policies and response strategies. The session also explored potential challenges and identified collaborative actions needed to ensure sustainable water resource management.

The forum further reviewed ongoing issues related to agricultural reservoir water quality management and the current status of renewable energy projects implemented by the Korea Rural Community Corporation. In addition, members of the Second River Basin Water Management Committee were invited to share their valuable experiences and contributions, highlighting the importance of integrated watershed governance in Korea.

As national policies continue to evolve rapidly, the Rural Water Forum remains committed to protecting and enhancing the value of rural water resources through timely dialogue, evidence-based policy discussions, and close cooperation among government agencies, researchers, and industry experts. The Forum extends its sincere appreciation to all participants for their active engagement and valuable insights. It will continue to respond proactively to emerging issues and contribute to the sustainable future of rural water management in Korea.

35th National Assembly Water Forum Explores Future of Water Management for 2030

The 35th National Assembly Water Forum was held yesterday at the National Assembly Members' Office Building under the theme, "Future Water Management for 2030: What Should We Do?" The forum brought together experts from four leading water-related academic societies, who delivered presentations followed by an in-depth panel discussion on the future of water management in Korea.

Representing the Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers, Vice President Seung-Hwan Yoo presented on "Innovation in Agricultural Water Management." His presentation outlined sustainable strategies for agricultural water management in an era characterized by climate change and rapid technological advancement. He emphasized the need for innovative approaches to improve water-use efficiency, strengthen resilience against climate risks, and ensure sustainable agricultural production.

A major topic of discussion was the growing demand for water to support the development of large-scale semiconductor clusters. Several potential water supply options have recently been proposed, including the use of existing industrial water, agricultural water, surplus water resources, and reclaimed wastewater.

Participants highlighted the importance of establishing clear principles and priorities for water allocation during droughts, as well as developing transparent compensation mechanisms for stakeholders affected by water redistribution. Achieving these goals will require close consultation and cooperation among all water users.

As climate change continues to threaten the reliability and security of water resources while water demand from advanced industries continues to grow, speakers agreed that efficient and integrated water resource management has become more critical than ever. The forum concluded with a shared recognition that collaborative governance, technological innovation, and sustainable policy development will be essential to ensuring Korea's long-term water security.

Kickoff Meeting Held for Agricultural Satellite Information User Group

On Tuesday, May 19, a kickoff meeting for the “Agricultural Satellite Information User Group” was held at the Rural Development Administration Agricultural Satellite Center. The event was organized to establish a communication channel with users, promote the utilization of agricultural satellite information, and enhance related services ahead of the scheduled launch of the Next Generation Medium-Sized Satellite No. 4 (Agricultural and Forestry Satellite) in July 2026.

The meeting brought together internal officials from the Rural Development Administration as well as major users of agricultural satellite information, including representatives from academic societies, policy agencies, research institutes, industry, and farming communities. Participants were introduced to future operational plans for the satellite program and engaged in open discussions to share concerns, needs, and recommendations from each sector.

Advancing Agricultural Monitoring and Climate Response

The upcoming Agricultural and Forestry Satellite is designed with a wide observation range of 120 km, enabling coverage of the entire Republic of Korea within three days. In addition, the satellite offers high-precision spatial resolution at the 5-meter level, significantly enhancing observation and monitoring capabilities.

The launch of the Next Generation Agricultural and Forestry Satellite is expected to create new opportunities in the field of agricultural engineering and digital agriculture. The satellite’s capabilities are anticipated to support the development of a digital response network for climate-related disasters such as floods and droughts, while also contributing to food security initiatives and the advancement of precision agriculture technologies.

Through continued collaboration with users and stakeholders, the Agricultural Satellite Information User Group aims to strengthen the practical application of satellite information across agriculture, forestry, and related sectors.

Rural Water Forum Holds First Roundtable Meeting in Sejong

The first roundtable meeting of the Rural Water Forum was held in Sejong on Thursday, May 14. The meeting brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss key water management issues following the launch of the 3rd National Water Management Committee.

Major topics included the re-naturalization of the Four Major Rivers, the opening of estuary dams, and the multi-purpose utilization of agricultural water. Presentations and discussions focused on the challenges and future directions of integrated water management in Korea.

In particular, the forum provided an opportunity to examine differing perspectives between the agricultural sector and other water-related fields regarding agricultural water, which accounts for a significant proportion of the nation’s total water consumption. Participants engaged in constructive dialogue on how to address current issues and build consensus for sustainable water management policies moving forward.

The meeting served as a meaningful platform for communication and collaboration among stakeholders and highlighted the importance of continued discussion and consensus-building in rural and agricultural water management.

Prof. Sang Min Kim, President of Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers meeting with President Kim In-joong of the Korea Rural Community Corporation

For the first time since the inauguration of the 38th Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers, Prof. SM Kim met with President Kim In-joong of the Korea Rural Community Corporation last Monday for a meeting and in-depth discussions on future cooperation.

Now, more than ever, the corporation and the society, the backbone of Korea's agricultural production base, need to work together to address pressing issues. At today's meeting, we established common ground on four key issues and requested active cooperation.

First, the corporation's active support and interest in the society's 70th anniversary celebration next year.

Second, joint efforts to revise the Rural Development Act to keep pace with the changing times.

Third, practical solutions to pressing issues related to rural water management in the era of climate crisis.

Fourth, expanding the scale of the Rural Water Forum to foster a truly "water festival" and "policy forum" where diverse stakeholders can participate on a broader range of topics.

The president readily agreed to establish a cooperative system. We ask for your continued support for the future of our rural communities, which will be shaped by the two-person, three-way collaboration between the corporation and the society.

The Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers shares its vision for the new year and begins preparations for its 70th anniversary.

The 2026 regular general meeting and New Year's ceremony

will be held, with Professor Kim Sang-min of Gyeongsang National University inaugurated as the new president.

The Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers officially announced its leap forward toward its 70th anniversary by sharing its vision for the new year and mid- to long-term development strategy.

On the 15th, the Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers held its 2026 regular general meeting and New Year's reception, sharing the society's vision for the new year and mid- to long-term development direction.

The event was attended by a large number of participants from universities and research institutes nationwide, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, businesses, and related organizations, including the Korea Rural Community Corporation, reflecting the strong interest in agricultural engineering. Bringing together academia, industry, and public institutions, the event served as a forum for discussion on the present and future of agricultural engineering.

At the regular general meeting, Professor Kim Sang-min of Gyeongsang National University was officially inaugurated as the new president.

In his inaugural address, newly appointed President Kim Sang-min stated, "In a rapidly changing agricultural and rural environment, we will strengthen the academic role and social responsibility of agricultural engineering and leap forward as a practical academic society that connects the field and policy." He also announced plans to enhance the international standing of Korean agricultural engineering by expanding the global research network and fostering exchanges with overseas academic societies and research institutes. He also announced plans to regularly host the "Future Vision Forum" to broaden participation among researchers and practitioners across diverse fields within agricultural engineering, including digital agriculture, groundwater management, and regional development.

Chairman Kim emphasized, "Through the Future Vision Forum, we will provide a forum for discussion that transcends academic boundaries, and by continuously sharing a new vision for agricultural engineering that links digital technology, resource management, and regional development, we will ensure that the society serves as a policy and technology platform that leads the future of agriculture and rural areas."

The Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers has designated 2026 as the "Year of Leap Forward," and plans to actively pursue a mid- to long-term strategy centered on strengthening academic competitiveness, expanding industry and policy linkages, and fostering the next generation of researchers ahead of the society's 70th anniversary in 2027.

The event also featured a special lecture. Lee Jeong-jae, Professor Emeritus of Seoul National University and former President of the Korean Society of Agricultural Engineers, spoke on the topic, "Opportunities for Our Agricultural Industry and Agricultural Engineering," explaining that agricultural engineering plays a role beyond technical support and is linked to the structural transformation of the agricultural industry.

The honorary professor highlighted the structural problems facing Korea's agricultural industry and the need for transformation, pointing out changes in the global economy and international politics, as well as the rising strategic value of food and resources.

In particular, as the limitations of the existing agricultural structure become clear due to the declining and aging farming population, agricultural engineering must pursue new breakthroughs by establishing a production base, efficiently using water and land resources, and leveraging science and technology to reduce labor and enhance industrial competitiveness. Furthermore, he emphasized that smart agriculture, data-driven agriculture, and the redesign of production bases are key areas where agricultural engineering can play a leading role.

Officials attending the event said, “This regular general meeting and New Year’s ceremony were an opportunity to redefine the role of agricultural engineering and declare a new beginning toward the 70th anniversary,” and added, “We hope that agricultural engineering will make further advancements as a core field supporting national food security and the sustainability of rural areas.”

출처 : 한국농업신문(http://www.newsfarm.co.kr)
Complete Story: http://www.newsfarm.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=100125&fbclid=IwY2xjawPuPCNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFPamN1Qk1SVFpieWl3bEsxc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkTJCFNKqiPDoLvAWN2_IIWl86i-jy1SXl58XvyokwdrdRo3e5DL0xT5R5r9_aem_MSqGwN-b_ey49MbLrtiBOw

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