Traditional Fishery 'Dolmiyeok Tritdae Harvesting Fishery' Designated as the 8th National Important Fishery Heritage

Scenery of seaweed harvesting of Dolmiyeok and Tritdae in Gyeonnaeryang.

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Joo Sang-don] The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on the 6th that the traditional fishing method of harvesting Dolmiyeok (rock seaweed) using long poles called "tritdae" in the waters of Gyeonnaeryang between Tongyeong and Geoje has been designated as the 8th National Important Fishing Heritage.

Since 2015, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has been designating and managing National Important Fishing Heritage sites to preserve unique tangible and intangible fishing assets formed over a long period. So far, seven sites have been designated as National Important Fishing Heritage, including Jeju Haenyeo Fishing (2015), Boseong Beolbae Fishing (2015), Namhae Jukbangnyeom Fishing (2015), Sinan Solar Salt Industry (2016), Wando Fixed-Pole Gim Aquaculture (2017), Muan·Sinan Mudflat Octopus Bare-Hand Fishing (2018), and Gyeongnam Hadong·Jeonnam Gwangyang Seomjingang Jaecheop Hand Trap Fishing (2018).

Tritdae harvesting is a traditional fishing method using a long pole called tritdae to wrap and lift seaweed attached to underwater rocks. Generally, Dolmiyeok is harvested by hand-picking seaweed attached to rocks during low tide, but fishermen in this region maintain this traditional method to prevent damage to seaweed spores. Every May, residents of Yeongi Village in Tongyeong and Gwangri Village in Geoje, located on both sides of Gyeonnaeryang, mobilize about 50 fishing boats to jointly harvest, dry, and sell Dolmiyeok. Dolmiyeok produced in the Gyeonnaeryang area grows on natural rock beds enduring strong currents, resulting in a firm texture and deep flavor. It is known as a high-quality and healthy ingredient, having even been presented at the royal court's royal meals.

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries conducted a comprehensive evaluation through an assessment committee composed of advisors for the National Important Fishing Heritage, including a first-stage document review, second-stage field evaluation, and third-stage final evaluation. The tritdae harvesting method was recognized for its historical significance and excellence in food production and livelihood maintenance, as well as for the strong commitment of local governments and residents to sustain traditional fishing.

Once designated as a National Important Fishing Heritage, a fishing heritage designation certificate is issued, and a budget of 700 million KRW (70% national funds, 30% local funds) will be provided over the next three years for the restoration and succession of the fishing heritage. Through this, the Ministry expects not only an enhancement of regional brand value but also increased income for fishing village residents and growth in tourism, thereby revitalizing the local economy.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.