In an unprecedented development that even surpasses the advanced greenhouse farming seen in Western nations like the Netherlands, also known as a country of flowers, Pyongyang, the capital of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), has recently inaugurated the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex. Spanning over 260 hectares, this state-of-the-art agricultural venture comprises more than 1,050 structures, including vegetable greenhouses, production facilities, public buildings, and residential units.
Innovative “Plant Factory” Greenhouses
Central to the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex is the introduction of the “plant factory” – greenhouses equipped with cylindrical vegetable cultivation devices. This cutting-edge approach allows for the complete industrialization of agriculture, where optimal growth conditions for crops are meticulously controlled.
The cylindrical cultivation devices rotate periodically, ensuring high nutrient absorption and light utilization efficiency. Within the dust- and germ-free environment of the greenhouse, 42 such devices have been installed, enabling vegetable harvesting just 20 days after seedling transplantation. Currently, the complex cultivates dozens of functional vegetable varieties.
Digital Integration for Precision Farming
The Kangdong Greenhouse Complex integrates an intelligent production system across all greenhouses. This system employs real-time monitoring of environmental conditions and crop growth, automatically adjusting production processes to maintain optimized conditions. The infrastructure includes a virtual production system, a distributed control system, industrial information devices, and automation programming tools.
Kim Song Hak, a technical expert at the complex, emphasized the system’s proactive approach: “If a growth issue arises, we first address it in the virtual production system, applying successful strategies to real-world scenarios.”
Diverse Architectural Styles in a “Greenhouse Town”
Breaking new ground in DPRK’s architectural landscape, the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex features seven types of greenhouses, from cylindrical vegetable cultivation to hydroponic and vinyl-based designs. Additionally, the surrounding area has been transformed into a “greenhouse town,” complete with multi-story residential units, nurseries, kindergartens, schools, and a polyclinic, harmoniously blending with the natural landscape.
Localized Technological Advancements
The technological backbone of the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex is entirely domestically developed. Choe Song, head of the modernization institute at the State Academy of Sciences, highlighted the contributions of DPRK’s scientists and technicians. They developed advanced information devices, cultivation tools, and programs, significantly reducing production costs. Examples include the hydroponic measuring device, high-pressure mist system for climate control, automatic agrochemical sprayer, and various control systems.
Rapid Construction Amid Challenges
Remarkably, the construction of the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex was completed in just one year, demonstrating exceptional speed and efficiency. Despite facing challenges like heavy rainfall and underground water issues, the Korean People’s Army construction team showcased unwavering determination. Through innovative solutions and collaborative efforts, they overcame obstacles to realize the project’s vision.
Investment for Public Welfare
Significant investment has been directed towards the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex, with a commitment to supplying its produce exclusively to the citizens of Pyongyang. This initiative aligns with the vision of the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un, who prioritizes improving the quality of life for the DPRK’s people. Under his guidance, meticulous planning and execution strategies were employed, leveraging the latest agricultural science and technology to accelerate the project’s completion.
