The county runs a Jeonnam-style youth village program called Youth Life Naecut Village. Selected through the 2023 Jeonnam youth village competition, the initiative offers hands-on programs that let young people try living in Yeongam while engaging with local resources and traditions.
About 90 young people joined the program in its first year. Participants took part in living labs, stayed at a village hotel, and toured the area—testing out weekend and month-long stays while getting to know Yeongam's lifestyle and tourist spots.
This second-year program puts more emphasis on experiential workshops. From January through March, 25 participants from across the country—including Seoul, Gwangju, Ulsan, and Jeju—took a home-repair class. They built decks, picnic tables, and fences, picking up carpentry and practical life skills.
Cooking classes that highlight local specialties are also part of the lineup. Last month’s session focused on desserts made with Yeongam sweet potatoes, and upcoming classes will feature figs and Daebong persimmons.
The Yeongam Supporters program ties into regional promotion. Supporters stay at the village hotel, explore attractions and favorite local restaurants, and produce photos and short-form videos to showcase what Yeongam has to offer.
\"We'll expand these local programs so young people can gain new experiences and naturally connect with Yeongam,\" said Kim Sun-mi, head of Yeongam County's Population and Youth Division.
