The role and contribution of sanlim-kyes during Saemaul Undong in the Republic of Korea in the 1970s

• Main Authors: Don Koo Lee, Ki Cheol Kwon, Yohan Lee
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2018-04-01
• Series: Forest Science and Technology
• Subjects: fuelwood forest; reforestation; Saemaul plantation; Saemaul Undong; sanlim-kye
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/21580103.2018.1436469
• ISSN: 2158-0103; 2158-0715

The objective of this study was to understand the role and contribution of sanlim-kyes (mutual aid associations for village forests) to successful reforestation during Saemaul Undong period in the 1970s. They were first organized in 1951 in the Ri and Dong village units in the Republic of Korea (ROK). They were self-governing associations for promoting cooperation between forest owners and villagers. Sanlim-kyes grew under Saemaul Undong (ROK's “new village movement”), which began in 1971, playing a crucial role in replanting degraded forests during that time. As a result of their establishment of 680,000 ha of fuelwood forests, which contributed not only to forest development but also to a greener energy supply, the organization became a cornerstone for the success of reforestation in Korea. During Saemaul Undong period, reforested property and the sale of tree seedlings became an economic asset as well, providing funds for the construction of bridges, village halls, and other community projects. Sanlim-kyes also contributed to protecting forests from illegal cutting, forest fires, and attack by insect or disease. As bottom-up mutual aid associations, sanlim-kyes should be recognized and evaluated for their contribution to successful reforestation and social development in Korea during Saemaul Undong period in the 1970s.