Comprehensive Characterization of Global Barley (_Hordeum vulgare_ L.) Collection Using Agronomic Traits, \(\beta\)-Glucan Level, Phenolic Content, and Antioxidant Activities  
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1 National Agrobiodiversity Centerability to lower cholesterol, promote bowel movements, and prevent constipation, thereby improving digestive health. Additionally, barley \(\beta\)-glucans can help reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in the bloodstream and decrease the risk of heart disease [6; 7; 8]. The functional metabolites also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which protect cells against oxidative stress and potentially reduce the likelihood of developing chronic conditions such as cancer [9]. Furthermore, the low glycemic index of barley makes it a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes as it helps regulate blood sugar levels [7]. Generally, the synergistic action of barley metabolites improves overall health and contributes to the crop's reputation as a nutritious and health-promoting crop [7; 8]. As the global population continues to grow, the role of barley in ensuring food security and addressing climate change is of utmost importance [10]. Efforts in breeding have made significant advancements in enhancing barley traits to meet the changing demands of consumers and environmental challenges. Scientists are constantly utilizing genomic sequencing and molecular breeding techniques to unlock the genetic potential of barley. Such studies lead to the development of more productive, disease-resistant, stress-tolerant, and nutritious varieties [11; 12]. To support these research advancements, it is crucial to continuously explore the genetic variation found within barley genetic resources. In particular, analyzing the agro-morphological characteristics and biochemical traits of barley genetic resources is essential for the success of barley breeding programs [11; 12; 13; 14]. The agro-morphological features provide valuable information about how different types of barley adapt to different climate conditions and their potential for increasing yield [15; 13]. By identifying and recording these features, breeders can develop more productive and sustainable barley varieties with desirable properties [16]. Additionally, understanding the biochemical composition of barley gives insights into the nutritional properties and potential uses of superior genotypes for breeding programs [12]. In general, the continuous assessment of barley genetic resources using agro-morphological and biochemical traits improves the accuracy and effectiveness of breeding endeavors, ultimately leading to the selection and development of high-quality barley varieties [12; 14]. Gene banks have a significant role to play in this aspect as they preserve and record a vast number of genotypes with a wide range of genetic variants [17; 18]. Previously, several studies have reported the genetic diversity found in barley resources by examining their agricultural, morphological, and biochemical traits [19; 20; 21; 22; 23; 24]. Nevertheless, there appears to be a lack of research focusing on the diversity of barley resources from different origins. Moreover, only a limited number of studies have combined the assessment of both agro-morphological and biochemical traits to comprehensively analyze the genetic diversity within barley genotypes. Our gene bank at the National Agrobiodiversity Center (Jeonju, Republic of Korea) holds diverse barley genotypes for distribution, conservation, and breeding. However, the characteristics and performances of these genotypes have not been fully studied. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the diversity of 367 barley genetic resources collected from 27 different countries by analyzing their agro-morphological and biochemical characteristics. Additionally, the performance of these resources was compared to five commonly cultivated Korean barley cultivars (Betaone, Saechalssalbori, Heukbori, Heukdahyang, and Saessalbori).