The Rural Development Administration (RDA) of Korea, led by Director Lee Seung-don, has announced a policy to expand the ‘Nanchukmatdon’ black pig breed, developed from Jeju’s native genetic resources. The breed was created to maintain the meat quality and black coloration of the Jeju native black pig while increasing industrial productivity. The policy aims to establish a comprehensive industrialization system that links production, distribution, and consumption, thereby broadening the domestic black pig market. The ‘Nanchukmatdon’ breed is the result of genetic analysis and selective breeding, ensuring both quality and productivity.
Farmers, distributors, universities, and research institutions are directly impacted by this policy, as they participate in the ‘Nanchukmatdon Research Association’ founded in 2020. The association coordinates systematic improvement and industrialization, with stakeholders sharing management and breeding standards across all stages. The number of farms raising ‘Nanchukmatdon’ has grown from just one in Jeju in 2019 to 14 nationwide by 2025, including 12 in Jeju and 2 in inland regions. Consumer access has also expanded, with 68 restaurants serving ‘Nanchukmatdon’ as of February 2026, up from only 2 in 2019, and online sales channels such as Naver Smart Store and Market Kurly.
Implementation has focused on maintaining quality consistency and protecting breed value as distribution increases. The breed’s marbling content averages over 10%, compared to 1–3% in regular pigs, and its redness score is 12.35 versus 6.5–8.5 for standard pork, making it suitable for various cuts. Economic analysis shows that farms can earn an additional KRW 230 million annually, with carcass prices at KRW 8,500 per kg, higher than both regular and Jeju black pigs. The RDA plans to further improve productivity by increasing piglet numbers from 10 to 13 per litter and reducing shipping age from 190 to 185 days, while using genetic analysis to ensure breed authenticity and quality.
Frequently asked questions include: What makes ‘Nanchukmatdon’ different from other black pigs? Its superior marbling and color provide better taste and versatility. How is quality assured? Genetic analysis and shared standards across production, distribution, and consumption maintain consistent quality. What are the future plans? The RDA will expand dedicated farms and sales channels, strengthen quality management, and support farmers with new income opportunities while offering consumers reliable domestic black pork.
The expansion and industrialization of the ‘Nanchukmatdon’ black pig breed is a significant step for Korea’s livestock industry. By connecting production, distribution, and consumption, the policy not only enhances market competitiveness but also provides new income opportunities for farmers. The use of genetic analysis and shared standards ensures consistent quality, which is crucial for consumer trust and market growth. The rapid increase in farms and restaurants serving ‘Nanchukmatdon’, along with online sales channels, reflects strong demand and effective policy implementation. Ongoing improvements in productivity and quality management will be key to sustaining this momentum.