Gov't, ruling party agree to lenient approach for minor violations in farmland survey

The government and the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) have agreed on a lenient approach to address minor violations found during a nationwide farmland survey, while aiming to combat clear instances of land speculation. The survey, initiated earlier this year, aims to establish accurate ownership records of farmland and deter its use as a speculative asset.

However, the Peoples Power Party (PPP) has expressed concerns over the impact of the survey on farmers, arguing that it has caused anxiety and potentially violated their property rights.

Agriculture Minister Song Mi-ryung addressed the matter during a policy meeting with DPK officials, stating that if the intention behind the speculation is evident, corrective actions will be taken in accordance with the law and principles. For minor or routine violations discovered during the survey, the government will offer guidance or employ alternative measures, such as improving the system instead of immediately imposing penalties.

The minister emphasized that the focus should be on restoring the original purpose of farmland rather than hastily addressing violations.