Ecological Characteristics of Boseong Tea Trees and Activation Strategies for Convergence in the Tea Industry

Boseong is widely regarded as a representative region for Korea's tea industry, yet it has long been misunderstood as relying predominantly on foreign cultivars. This study challenges that perception by empirically examining the ecological and agricultural value of traditional native tea tree varieties cultivated in the region. Drawing upon administrative statistical data from the Boseong County Office as of late 2023 and field surveys conducted by the researcher, the study analyzed 1,453 tea field parcels (totaling 770.6 hectares) in terms of cultivation type, land use designation, topography, and varietal composition. The findings reveal that traditional tea fields in Boseong are primarily located on sloped or terraced terrains—distinct from the flatland industrial tea plantations—and are predominantly composed of native landraces that have adapted to the region’s unique ecological conditions. These traditional cultivars demonstrate superior resistance to pests and climatic fluctuations, as well as physiological diversity, highlighting their potential for integration with organic farming, traditional processing, and therapeutic agriculture. The study positions Boseong's tea fields not merely as economic production sites but as agro-cultural heritage assets, and it argues for policy frameworks that incorporate their ecological, historical, and multifunctional values. By doing so, this research contributes a foundation for redefining the strategic direction of the tea industry in Boseong, balancing tradition and innovation for sustainable rural development.