Forage production and animal husbandry in Korea

Abstract

Abstract The livestock industry in Korea is primarily carries out feeding through the utilization of concentrates and rice straw. The amount of imported concentrate is estimated to be more than two thirds (about 11 million metric tons (MT) per year) of the total concentrates required, specifically corn. Recently, about 600 000 MT of forage was recorded to be imported per year. The main feature of grassland agriculture, including forage production, is the dependence on perennial grasses, legumes and high quality annual forage crops, such as corn, sorghum, sudangrass, rye, oats, barley, Italian ryegrass and forage rape, among others. In addition, proper land use and increased animal profitability is maintained through grassland agriculture. The important fields for forage production are upland, paddy land, grassland and forest areas. Rice straw is also one of the most important roughages in Korea. The aim of forage production in the past was to fulfil the domestic need of herbivores, but forage production in 21st century is geared towards international competitiveness in animal husbandry. The most important factor is to enhance forage sufficiency related to environment‐friendly livestock in Korea. Fortunately, there are many possibilities in forage production. A no forage‐sufficiency, no food‐sufficiency; no forage, no cattle concept is emphasized.