INJE COUNTY, South Korea – In the remote mountain village of Sinwol-ri, a small population hopes that five rescued “Flower Cows” will not only find sanctuary but help rejuvenate the area. With fewer than 100 residents, the village has embarked on an unconventional transformation to become South Korea’s first “vegan village,” aiming to attract younger residents and tourists to counter rural depopulation.
After taking in the cows, saved from an unlicensed farm in 2021, villagers supported the initiative led by animal activist group Animal Liberative Wave (ALW). Despite initial concerns, Mayor Jeon Do-hwa, 75, convinced most villagers to support the project, promoting peaceful coexistence between traditional livestock farming and vegan practices. Activities at the village now include vegan cooking, cultural experiences, and interactions with the Flower Cows, with hopes to double the current population by 2030.
With a recent boost in funding, the project is converting a disused primary school into visitor accommodations. More than half of Sinwol-ri’s population is over 65, and as South Korea faces a demographic crisis, Sinwol-ri’s innovative approach may provide a model for rural sustainability.