Professor Jong-in Kim Receives Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Commendation

Professor Jong-in Kim of the School of Northeast Asian Studies (SONAS) at Incheon National University received a Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Commendation on December 31, 2025, in recognition of his contributions to the advancement of food policy and the stabilization of rice supply and demand.

Professor Kim is an expert in agricultural economics and food policy and has led research on Korea’s food industry, including his work at the Korea Rural Economic Institute. In particular, his 2019 study, “A Detailed Plan for the Reform of the Direct Payment System,” served as a key foundation for restructuring the existing variable rice direct payment system into a “public-interest direct payment system.” The study is widely regarded as having played a decisive role in expanding the budget and ensuring the successful establishment of the new system.

In addition, through his study titled “Research on the Operation of the Supply and Demand Management System Following the Revision of the Grain Management Act,” Professor Kim presented concrete government purchase criteria to prevent sharp declines in rice prices. These criteria were applied during the government’s purchase of surplus rice in 2021 and 2022, significantly contributing to price stabilization. The related research was published in a KCI-indexed journal, further demonstrating its academic value.

This award recognizes Professor Kim’s contribution to building a sustainable agricultural structure through rational data analysis and policy alternatives amid rapidly changing food security conditions. Since 2019, he has also consistently contributed opinion pieces to major media outlets and provided policy advisory services, enhancing public understanding of food policy.

Professor Kim stated, “Food policy is a critical field directly linked to farmers’ income stability and national food security,” adding, “I will continue to conduct practical policy research that remains closely aligned with field realities and contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of Korean agriculture.”