Seoul Metropolitan Government has opened a farm school for the homeless to help them stand on their own as farmers or farm hands.

The Seoul Farm School, opened on Monday, is expected to offer agricultural education so that the homeless can support themselves and break free from life on the streets.

“I want to start a new life at the farming school. I’ve been living on the streets and eat at homeless shelters, but I want to earn money that can support me in the future,” said Ki Un-chan, 52, one of the 40 first year students at the school.

The curriculum includes agriculture theory and practice in which students can grow crops, vegetables, medicinal crops and learn organic farming.

They may sell their crops to markets and use the proceeds to do their own farming in the future, officials said.

“The city government will offer diverse programs to help them start a new life,” said Kim Kyung-ho, director of the Seoul government’s welfare and health division.

A 51-year-old student surnamed Byun said he used to grow mushrooms but ended up homeless. He did part-time construction work from time to time after losing his fortune in a typhoon in 2003 and falling into debt.

“I am glad I get the chance to farm again,” said Byun.

By Lee Woo-young  (wylee@heraldcorp.com)