The Korea Rural Economic Institute (KREI), a government-funded institution researching domestic agricultural and rural policies, began duty in Naju at 9 a.m. on August 3. With this, KREI opened the Naju era after its 37 years in Seoul.

The institute built a seven-floor building and a basement with a total ground area of 16,159㎡ on a 34,352㎡ site in Gwangju-Jeonnam Joint Innovative City and moved into the new office building.

Founded in April 1978, KREI is an agricultural and rural policy research institution under the prime minister. About 260 people work at KREI that consists of 5 research departments, 5 research centers, 4 offices for research support, 1 project office and the Beijing Office.

KREI President Choi Sei-kyun said in that day's morning assembly, "I will do my best to lead our institute in Naju to become a global hub of agricultural and rural research." Also, all staff shouted slogans, "Agricultural research hub Naju! Let's plant hope and go out into the world!"