An Exploratory Study on the Necessity of Establishing a Dedicated Support System for the Advancement of Laver(GIM) Industry in Korea

Laver (GIM) industry in Korea has grown into a globally competitive export sector, yet it faces structural challenges such as labor shortages, climate-driven production decline, low R&D investment, and fragmented institutional support. Despite its export success, the absence of a dedicated support system threatens sustainability and limits future growth. Current research efforts are scattered, and the existing legal framework lacks a solid foundation for establishing a specialized agency. This study analyzes these limitations and examines domestic and international cases to explore the need for a unified support structure. It proposes creating a quasi-public agency under the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to manage the entire value chain—from seed development and smart aquaculture to quality control and export strategy —enhancing the industry's global competitiveness and strategic growth potential.