From Wild Ginseng to Cultivated Ginseng: Why Did Ginseng Cultivation Begin?

 


Hello, this is GINWORLDART.
The excellence of Korean ginseng isn’t just due to its climate or soil—this plant has transformed from wild roots to cultivated crops and now anchors regional festivals and economies.

In today’s Ginseng White Paper, we’ll explore why ginseng cultivation emerged and where it thrives in Korea.


1. How did ginseng cultivation begin?

Traditionally, “ginseng” referred to wild ginseng (sansam) harvested from the mountains. However, as demand surged, wild ginseng became scarce due to overharvesting—a decline that led to the need for an alternative.

The first cultivation method involved planting wild ginseng seeds or seedlings in forests—known as ‘way-up ginseng’ (san-yang-sam). Over time, cultivation advanced, incorporating shade structures for field-grown ginseng.

*Ginseng Physiology & Cultivation Requirements


▶ Ginseng farming is labor- and time-intensive, relying on farmer expertise and environmental harmony to yield high-quality Korean ginseng.

2. Ginseng: A revered herbal remedy since antiquity

Ginseng first appeared in the 5th century in the Chinese classics Shennong Bencao Jing and Bencao Mengquan. By the Ming dynasty’s Bencao Gangmu (1596), specific varieties like Korean and Baekje ginseng were noted, evidencing cultivation in the Three Kingdoms period.

This long-standing medicinal legacy has elevated Korean ginseng from a mere crop to a symbol of vitality within traditional Eastern medicine.

▶ Today’s esteemed reputation of Korean ginseng is rooted in this enduring credibility.


3. Ginseng cultivation: a pinnacle of care and tradition

A ginseng field taxed after one cultivation requires at least 15 years of rest to recover. Ideal farmland must ensure correct soil type, slope, drainage, and shade exposure.

  1. Pre-planting conditioning: Two years of weeding and soil enrichment with organic matter

  2. Transplanting: Using nursery-grown seedlings placed beneath shade nets

  3. Seasonal management: Summer ventilation, root protection, and balanced shade

  4. Goal: Develop well-formed roots with a healthy head, body, and legs

▶ Korean ginseng remains one of the most traditional and refined organic crops—growing “with time.”


4. Ginseng-growing regions and cultivation status in Korea

Korea’s superior ginseng production stems from ideal geography (latitudes 36–38° N), four distinct seasons, and sandy loam soils. Cultivation zones are classified into


5. Ginseng festivals: learning, celebrating, and growing together

Regional ginseng festivals deepen consumer awareness while showcasing local culture. Highlights include:

  • Geumsan Ginseng Festival (Geumsan, Chungnam)
    Korea’s largest, with auctions, health workshops, and live performances (Sep 19–28, 2025)

  • Punggi Ginseng Festival (Yeongju, Gyeongbuk)
    With traditional vibes, harvest experiences, exhibits, and parades (Oct 18–26, 2025)

  • Jinan Red Ginseng Festival (Jinan, Jeonbuk)
    Featuring high-altitude red ginseng tastings, processing demos, and local foods (Sep 26–28, 2025)

▶ These celebrations reinforce the importance of ginseng and spark regional economic growth.


6. Revisiting why cultivated ginseng was developed

As wild ginseng became scarce due to overharvesting, cultivation emerged as a sustainable, systematic solution. Ginseng farming today is more than agriculture—it’s the evolution of herbal culture, balancing human needs with ecological responsibility.


*Introducing Our Product: SamBiCheon

At GINWORLDART, we honor this heritage by offering SamBiCheon, a premium product derived from 6-year-old Korean ginseng. Using freeze-drying, we preserve high levels of concentrated ginsenosides, seamlessly connecting the power of traditional ginseng to modern health routines.


*Post Summary

  • Ginseng cultivation replaced the unsustainable harvest of wild ginseng

  • Its demanding growth conditions maintain traditional organic methods

  • Korea’s geography gives it a global advantage in ginseng quality

  • Cultivation zones vary by purpose—red or white ginseng

  • Festivals celebrate ginseng and support regional communities

  • Ginseng farming reflects sustainable herbal heritages.


Thank you for joining us in this deep dive into the history, cultivation, and vibrant culture of Korean ginseng.

GINWORLDART will continue delivering comprehensive insights on ginseng’s history, growing techniques, and health benefits. We hope you’ll look forward to the next entry in our Ginseng White Paper series. Thank you for reading and stay well!

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