# Protected Horticulture Research Institute
**Wikidata**: [Q12603956](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12603956)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/protected-horticulture-research-institute

## Summary
The Protected Horticulture Research Institute is a South Korean government agency and research institute specializing in horticulture, particularly protected cultivation methods. Established under the Rural Development Administration, it focuses on advancing agricultural technologies and supporting domestic farming practices. The institute underwent a name change in 2015 from "시설원예시험장" to "시설원예연구소," reflecting its evolving role in research and development.

## Key Facts
- **Founded**: Initially established as "시설원예시험장" on January 9, 2004, and renamed "시설원예연구소" on January 6, 2015.
- **Parent Organization**: Part of the Rural Development Administration and affiliated with the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science.
- **Location**: Based at 1425 Jinham-ro, Haman-myeon, Haman-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea.
- **Primary Focus**: Research and development in protected horticulture, including greenhouse cultivation and sustainable farming techniques.
- **Classification**: Functions as both a government agency and a specialized research institute.

## FAQs
### Q: When was the Protected Horticulture Research Institute established?
A: The institute was initially established on January 9, 2004, as "시설원예시험장" and was renamed "시설원예연구소" on January 6, 2015.

### Q: What is the main purpose of the institute?
A: Its primary purpose is to conduct research in protected horticulture, developing technologies and methods to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability in South Korea.

### Q: Who oversees the institute?
A: The institute operates under the Rural Development Administration, a government body responsible for agricultural research and rural development initiatives.

## Why It Matters
The Protected Horticulture Research Institute plays a critical role in South Korea’s agricultural sector by advancing protected cultivation techniques, which are essential for optimizing crop yields in limited land and varying climatic conditions. As a government-affiliated entity, it bridges scientific research with practical farming applications, supporting national food security and sustainable agriculture goals. Its work directly benefits farmers, policymakers, and consumers by fostering innovation in horticultural practices, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing the efficiency of resource use. By focusing on cutting-edge methods such as greenhouse technology and climate-resilient crops, the institute contributes to the long-term viability of South Korea’s agricultural industry in a rapidly changing global environment.

## Notable For
- **Specialization in Protected Cultivation**: Focuses on advanced greenhouse and controlled-environment farming technologies tailored to South Korea’s agricultural challenges.
- **Government-Affiliated Research**: Operates under the Rural Development Administration, ensuring alignment with national agricultural policies and priorities.
- **Name Evolution**: Transitioned from a "test station" (시험장) to a "research institute" (연구소) in 2015, signaling an expanded scope in scientific inquiry and development.
- **Regional Impact**: Serves as a key research hub in Gyeongsangnam-do, addressing local and national horticultural needs through targeted studies and outreach.

## Body
### History and Name Changes
The institute was founded on January 9, 2004, as "시설원예시험장" (Protected Horticulture Test Station), emphasizing practical testing and demonstration of farming techniques. On January 6, 2015, it was renamed "시설원예연구소" (Protected Horticulture Research Institute), reflecting a broader mandate for scientific research and innovation in protected cultivation.

### Research Focus
The institute specializes in **protected horticulture**, including:
- Greenhouse design and climate control systems.
- Soilless cultivation and hydroponics.
- Integrated pest management and sustainable farming practices.
- Development of high-yield, disease-resistant crop varieties.

### Organizational Structure
- **Parent Agency**: Rural Development Administration (RDA), a ministry-level organization under the South Korean government.
- **Affiliation**: Works in conjunction with the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, collaborating on interdisciplinary projects.

### Location
The institute is headquartered at **1425 Jinham-ro, Haman-myeon, Haman-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do**, positioning it in a region significant for agricultural production and research in South Korea. This location facilitates field studies and direct engagement with local farming communities.