Namhae County in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, has received an award for its excellence in operating a local food direct sales market. The award was presented at the ‘2026 Local Food Direct Sales Market Best Practice Competition’ hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation. The competition highlighted successful models for connecting local farmers directly with consumers. Namhae County’s market demonstrated effective strategies for promoting locally sourced produce and strengthening the regional agricultural economy. Details regarding the specific winning strategies were not immediately available. This recognition underscores the growing importance of local food systems in South Korea and the government’s support for their development. The award aims to encourage further innovation and best practices within the local food market sector nationwide.