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Ulsan Tram Project Resumes Amid Ongoing Controversy The Ulsan Urban Railway Line 1 tram project, which was under comprehensive review following the launch of the 9th elected government, is set to resume.Ulsan City has decided to restart the halted vehicle manufacturing and design and construction processes after failing to find a legal way to suspend or terminate existing contracts without incurring financial liabilities.However, this decision does not confirm the final push for the tram project. Ulsan City plans to preserve the remaining pause periods in the contracts without exhausting them, continuing to assess the project's pros and cons and the possibility of halting it before the main construction begins.As a result, this resumption is interpreted as a conditional restart aimed at securing additional review time while avoiding legal and financial burdens, rather than a complete normalization of the tram project. Ulsan finds no way to terminate contract without losses, resumes projectOn July 31, Ulsan City held a meeting at City Hall, chaired by Mayor Kim Sang-wook, to discuss the future direction of the tram project.The city had previously explored options to suspend or terminate the project through multiple legal consultations, inquiries to central government agencies, and discussions with contract partners. However, it concluded that unilaterally terminating a legally binding contract would likely lead to financial liabilities, including compensation for damages.Both Hyundai Rotem and Hanshin Construction reportedly communicated to Ulsan City that they could not accept a contract suspension or modification without compensation. Previous legal advice also indicated that it would be difficult to terminate the contract legally without incurring liability for damages.The tram project has already contracted with the Hanshin Construction consortium for design and construction through a bundled bidding process, and a purchase contract for nine hydrogen-powered tram vehicles has been signed with Hyundai Rotem. Terminating the existing contracts could lead to disputes over incurred costs, losses, and future profits for the contracting parties.However, it is not certain that criminal liability for breach of duty or abuse of authority would immediately arise. The determination of criminal responsibility would depend on specific facts, including the circumstances of the contract termination, authority, financial damages, and intent. The primary issue for Ulsan City is whether an administrative agency can unilaterally suspend a contract without clear legal grounds. Remaining pause periods preserved; resumption decision leaves room for debateUlsan City has decided to resume the project without using the entire remaining period for contract suspension.The remaining pause periods are reportedly 27 days for Hyundai Rotem and 40 days for Hanshin Construction. Considering the need to suspend both contracts simultaneously, the practical period available for Ulsan City is approximately 27 days based on the Hyundai Rotem contract.Mayor Kim Sang-wook is said to have concluded that it is more reasonable to preserve the remaining period for potential future significant changes or legal grounds for suspension rather than exhausting it without a clear plan.While the project procedures are moving forward again, Ulsan City's review is not complete. The city plans to reassess the potential for increased project costs, conditions for national funding support, traffic congestion during construction, operational deficits after opening, and the efficiency of the route before the main construction begins.The tram project was initially planned with a total budget of 381.4 billion won to connect 10.85 kilometers from Taehwagang Station to Gongup Tower, with an expected opening by the end of 2029. Ulsan City had previously announced plans to enter the main construction phase after completing detailed design, various impact assessments, and obtaining approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.If project costs significantly exceed initial estimates, a feasibility reassessment and review of the project plan may be necessary, which could affect the availability of national funding. Mayor Kim has also expressed concerns about the possibility of project suspension if issues arise with national funding after construction begins. Park Maeng-woo calls for project halt; Kim Sang-wook cites legal limitsThe debate surrounding the tram project has evolved into a question of its economic viability and the extent of administrative responsibility that should be accepted.Former Ulsan Mayor Park Maeng-woo has argued that the tram is unsuitable for Ulsan's population size and road conditions, and it could lead to traffic congestion and long-term operational deficits during construction. He has called for the project to be scrapped.In a press conference on July 30, Park stated, "Once installed, even a flawed project becomes an irreversible burden," urging for the tram project to be halted. He highlighted issues such as traffic congestion during construction, fewer expected users, and ongoing operational deficits as major concerns.In contrast, Mayor Kim maintains that while the project's issues should be continuously verified, it is not possible to halt the project in a manner that exceeds legal authority and contractual obligations. He stated that if a legal way to suspend the project is identified, it will be considered, but in reality, if the project continues, administrative efforts should focus on minimizing cost increases and citizen traffic inconveniences.Both figures share a negative view of the tram's necessity, yet they differ in their assessment of the legal and financial risks that can be accepted during the suspension process. Project resumes, but issues remain; verification before main construction is keyWhile the Ulsan tram project has resumed, the controversy is far from over. The inability to find a legal way to suspend the contract does not validate the tram's economic viability or traffic benefits.Conversely, halting a legally binding contract without legal grounds simply due to doubts about the project's economic viability cannot be considered responsible administration.Ultimately, what Ulsan City must do before the main construction is not to repeat political slogans of "halt or proceed," but to present concrete figures to citizens regarding total project costs, the likelihood of securing national funding, traffic measures during construction, demand forecasts, annual operating costs, and the scale of deficit coverage.Whether this resumption decision will merely serve as a time-saving measure to avoid contractual losses or lead to a verification process that reduces project risks and engages public judgment will depend on future administrative actions.The tram has begun to move again, but the final decision that Ulsan City must make is still pending. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 19:16:00
Goo Ja-hyun Resigns as Acting Prosecutor General, Citing Criminal Procedure Law Revisions Goo Ja-hyun, the acting Prosecutor General, submitted his resignation shortly after the National Assembly passed a revision to the Criminal Procedure Law.On July 31, Goo spoke with reporters at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, stating, "I feel a deep sense of responsibility regarding the revision of the Criminal Procedure Law and have just submitted my resignation letter." This comes 258 days after he took office on November 15 of last year.Goo acknowledged the need for reflection among all members of the prosecution regarding the loss of public trust, but emphasized, "Even if institutional reforms are made for that reason, the essence of the prosecution system, which is to uncover the truth and protect victims and related parties, must not be compromised."He continued, "I have been constantly contemplating the direction of institutional reforms to guarantee citizens' rights and protect society from crime. Concerns have been raised that the recent revision to the Criminal Procedure Law forces prosecutors to rely solely on investigation records to decide on indictments, making it difficult to adequately protect victims and resulting in an inefficient structure that consumes time and resources."Goo expressed his disappointment, saying, "The revision was passed without addressing these concerns, and I find it hard to hide my feelings of regret and helplessness. I earnestly request that, even after the revision is sent to the government, it be carefully examined to ensure there are no gaps in the system and that it sufficiently protects the public."He added, "I also feel a sense of responsibility regarding the remaining concerns expressed by legal experts and the public as the Criminal Procedure Law is revised in this manner. I hope our criminal justice system develops in a way that ensures all citizens are fairly protected under the law."Goo, a graduate of the 29th class of the Judicial Research and Training Institute, began his career as a prosecutor at the Southern District Prosecutors' Office in Seoul. He has held key positions at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, the Central District Prosecutors' Office, and the Ministry of Justice.During the conflict over the so-called 'complete deprivation of prosecution's investigative authority' in 2020, he served as the spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, assisting then-Minister Choo Mi-ae. He later advanced to Deputy Chief Prosecutor at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office and was promoted to Chief Prosecutor, also serving as the Director of the Prosecutors' Office at the Ministry of Justice. After the inauguration of the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, he held positions as Deputy Chief Prosecutor at the Daejeon High Prosecutors' Office, Deputy Chief Prosecutor at the Gwangju High Prosecutors' Office, and a research fellow at the Judicial Research and Training Institute, before being appointed Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul High Prosecutors' Office last July. He took over as acting Prosecutor General following the resignation of former acting Prosecutor General Noh Man-seok amid the 'Daejang-dong appeal abandonment' controversy.Since taking office, Goo has refrained from public comments during the prosecution reform phase, but he publicly expressed his concern after a prosecutor involved in the Daejang-dong case attempted suicide, stating he felt "devastated."On July 29, just before the Criminal Procedure Law revision was presented, he issued a statement saying, "As the acting Prosecutor General, I carry a heavy heart regarding the discussions on the abolition of the prosecution's supplementary investigative authority and the direction of the Criminal Procedure Law revision. If the effective oversight, supplementation, and correction functions of prosecutors regarding the investigation results of the first investigative agency are eliminated, the truth will be concealed, and South Korea's criminal justice system will collapse."However, with the passage of the Criminal Procedure Law revision without incorporating the provisions related to supplementary investigative authority that the prosecution requested, it is interpreted that he resigned to take responsibility for this outcome.If Goo's resignation is accepted, Park Gyu-hyung, head of the Planning and Coordination Bureau at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, is expected to temporarily assume the role of acting Prosecutor General. The government is anticipated to appoint Goo's successor soon to ensure organizational stability. The new acting Prosecutor General is likely to also take on the role of the inaugural head of the upcoming Public Prosecution Office, set to launch in October.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 19:08:00
GC Green Cross Reports 93% Drop in Q2 Operating Profit Due to Subsidiary Exclusion and Revenue Deferral GC Green Cross reported a significant decline in its second-quarter performance, attributing the drop to the exclusion of its subsidiary and the deferral of revenue from seasonal high-margin products. The company anticipates a recovery in profitability as sales of high-revenue items are expected to be fully reflected in the second half of the year.On July 31, GC Green Cross announced that its consolidated revenue for the second quarter reached 421.2 billion won, with an operating profit of 1.7 billion won and a net profit of 1.1 billion won. This represents a 15.8% decrease in revenue compared to the same period last year, while operating profit and net profit fell by 93.8% and 96.6%, respectively.The results were impacted by the exclusion of GC Green Cross Wellbeing from the consolidated figures and the deferral of revenue recognition for seasonal high-margin products to the second half of the year.In March, GC Green Cross sold its entire stake in GC Green Cross Wellbeing to GC (Green Cross Holdings) to improve its financial structure and secure investment resources for core business areas. The company plans to reorganize its business portfolio and strengthen the competitiveness of its core operations.Another factor affecting the second-quarter results was the revenue from the raw material for the influenza vaccine. Typically recognized in the second quarter, this revenue was delayed due to a holdup in securing standard samples of the influenza strains designated by the World Health Organization (WHO). The affected quantities are expected to be shipped in July and reflected in the third-quarter results.Sales of Hunterase, a treatment for Hunter syndrome and a key high-revenue product, are also expected to concentrate in the second half of the year, contributing to improved profitability.The immunoglobulin product, Aliglo, recorded sales of 40.5 billion won, an increase of about 10% from the first quarter. The company anticipates achieving its sales target of $150 million this year.Sales by business segment totaled 138.4 billion won for plasma-derived products, 55.2 billion won for vaccines, 86.5 billion won for prescription drugs, and 36.3 billion won for over-the-counter medicines and consumer healthcare.GC Cell, a major consolidated subsidiary, reported second-quarter sales of 41.6 billion won. It reduced its operating loss by approximately 80% compared to the previous quarter and recorded a net profit of 2.2 billion won, marking its return to profitability for the first time in nearly two years since 2024. The company plans to improve annual performance through growth in its core businesses, including specimen testing services, and operational efficiency in the second half of the year.A representative from GC Green Cross stated, "The second-quarter results fell short of market expectations due to temporary factors such as the delay in vaccine raw material production and the exclusion of the subsidiary. However, we expect the growth of Aliglo and the sales of high-revenue products like the influenza vaccine and Hunterase to be fully reflected starting in the third quarter, leading to a significant recovery in profitability in the second half of the year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:56:00
Heat Wave Continues Nationwide with Highs Reaching 38 Degrees On August 1, the first day of the month, a heat wave will persist across most of the country, reaching its peak. The sweltering heat is expected to continue through the weekend, lasting until August 2. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on July 31, daytime temperatures this weekend will rise between 32 and 38 degrees Celsius. With strong sunlight and urban heat island effects, the perceived temperature in some areas may exceed these figures. Regionally, Seoul's maximum temperature will reach 34 degrees, while the metropolitan area, including Incheon, Suwon, and Paju, will see highs of 32 to 33 degrees. In Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, temperatures could climb to 36 degrees. In the southern regions, particularly in Gyeongnam, where a heat advisory has been issued, daytime temperatures may approach 39 degrees, with perceived temperatures exceeding 38 degrees. During the weekend, the central region will experience occasional cloud cover, while the southern regions and Jeju Island will remain mostly clear with strong sunlight. As the heat wave continues, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases, prompting advisories to limit outdoor activities and prolonged work in the heat, along with ensuring adequate hydration. Tropical nights are also expected nationwide, indicating that nighttime heat will persist. With no significant rain in the forecast, temperatures in Seoul are expected to rise to 37 degrees next week, indicating that the heat wave may intensify further.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:56:00
Mokpo City Advances National Port Development Plans to Boost Marine Logistics and Offshore Wind Industry Mokpo City is accelerating its efforts to establish a future growth foundation for marine logistics and the offshore wind industry in the southwestern region by incorporating key proposed projects into the government's national port development plan.On July 31, Mokpo City announced that many of its core projects, which it has continuously proposed, have been included in the 'Fourth National Port Basic Plan Revision (2026-2030)' recently confirmed and announced by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.The basic port plan is a top-level statutory plan that outlines the long-term development direction and investment plans for national ports, serving as a critical standard for determining future national budgets and port development directions.Mokpo City has consistently advocated for the necessity of major projects, including the expansion of the offshore wind industry base, enhancement of port functions, and development of hinterland, in close cooperation with the Mokpo Regional Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Office. The inclusion of these projects in the revised plan provides a driving force to strengthen the future competitiveness of Mokpo Port.The plan includes the construction of a 30,000 DWT steel wharf (79.7 billion won) and a 30,000 DWT multipurpose wharf (79.7 billion won) to enhance support for the offshore wind industry.Additionally, the plan incorporates the construction of a 1,200-meter embankment for the second dredged soil disposal site (45.7 billion won) and a 60-meter expansion of the car terminal (19.9 billion won) for the third phase of the Mokpo New Port hinterland development.Strengthening Function as an Offshore Wind CenterWith the inclusion of this plan, Mokpo City aims to develop Mokpo New Port into a key hub for the domestic offshore wind industry.In particular, the inclusion of the ongoing Sewol ferry hull treatment project (tentatively named the National Sewol Ferry Life Memorial Hall) in the national plan is expected to further expand the offshore wind support functions if the hull relocation is pursued.With the addition of new steel and multipurpose wharves to the existing two offshore wind support berths, the foundation supporting the entire process of the offshore wind industry, including equipment manufacturing, assembly, transportation, installation, and operation and maintenance (O&M), is expected to be significantly strengthened.Mokpo City views this as a strategic infrastructure that enhances the national offshore wind supply chain competitiveness, going beyond mere port facility expansion.Expanding Passenger Functions and Promoting Urban Port RegenerationThe construction of a 30,000-ton passenger terminal in Mokpo Port's inner harbor, aimed for completion by the end of this year, is also progressing smoothly.Once the passenger terminal is completed, it is expected to improve the docking capacity for large passenger ships and respond more reliably to the increasing demand for marine passenger transport.Additionally, small-scale port regeneration projects utilizing aging port spaces will be pursued.The city plans to create a complex marine cultural space that integrates tourism, culture, and commerce while maintaining the port's original functions, thereby establishing a new urban regeneration model where the port and city coexist.Fostering an Eco-Friendly Marine Industry Centered PortMokpo City will strengthen cooperation with relevant agencies, including the government, Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City, and the Mokpo Regional Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Office, to ensure that the projects reflected in the national plan are implemented without delay. The city also plans to continuously advocate for the inclusion of new projects necessary for regional development in the national plan.This strategy aims to expand the eco-friendly port infrastructure and develop into a future-oriented port city where the marine industry, logistics, and tourism grow together.Mokpo Mayor Kang Seong-hwi stated, "The inclusion of this port basic plan revision marks a significant turning point in securing new growth engines for Mokpo Port. We will implement the projects reflected in the national plan without delay to develop Mokpo Port into a representative marine hub port in the southwestern region, harmonizing logistics, industry, and tourism, as well as an East Asian maritime hub."Meanwhile, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' Fourth National Port Basic Plan Revision outlines the development direction and investment plans for major ports nationwide from 2026 to 2030, serving as a key policy standard for future port infrastructure expansion and regional balanced development.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:48:00
Haenam County Enhances Safety Management for Senior Employment Amid Heatwave Haenam County is strengthening safety management for seniors participating in its employment program in response to the ongoing heatwave. The county announced on July 31 that it is focusing administrative efforts on health protection for the 3,056 seniors currently involved in the program by enhancing safety measures and flexibly adjusting activity hours according to heat conditions.Among the participants, 45%, or 1,384 seniors, are engaged in outdoor activities such as environmental maintenance, making the prevention of heat-related illnesses and safety management critical issues.As the heat intensifies, the county has moved up the start times for activities and can reduce activity hours by up to 15 hours on particularly hot days.Specifically, when a heat advisory is issued, outdoor activities will be suspended and replaced with indoor safety training or cultural activities to prioritize the health of seniors.The county is also providing heat response supplies, including cooling sleeves, hats, and bottled water, while ensuring adequate rest periods during activities to prevent heat-related illnesses.Additionally, the county is conducting thorough checks on the operating standards for activity hours, the distribution of heat response supplies, and emergency response systems at local offices and senior employment agencies. Any identified areas for improvement will be addressed immediately.To prepare for the possibility of prolonged heat, Haenam County plans to continue on-site inspections and safety training to minimize safety blind spots.Kim Gi-yong, head of the Family Happiness and Senior Welfare Team in Haenam County, stated, "As this summer is expected to see continued heat, we will prioritize the health and safety of participating seniors by strengthening on-site management and preventive activities. We will also ensure thorough responses to prevent safety blind spots through ongoing inspections of local offices and agencies."Meanwhile, Haenam County plans to maintain a tailored safety management system that prioritizes the safety of senior employment participants in response to seasonal disasters, including heavy rain and cold waves, in addition to the heatwave.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:40:00
Jangheung County Mayor Visits National Assembly to Secure Funding for Key Projects Jangheung County Mayor Sa Soon-moon made his first official visit to the National Assembly since taking office, focusing on securing national funding for key local projects. On July 30, Mayor Sa met with Shin Jang-sik, leader of the Justice Party, and lawmakers Cha Kyu-geun, Ahn Do-geol, Shin Jeong-hoon, and Moon Geum-joo to discuss major initiatives aimed at building a foundation for future growth in the region. This visit marked the first official National Assembly schedule for the new administration, aimed at gaining momentum for essential national projects that will drive local development. During the visit, Mayor Sa highlighted the need for support on several key initiatives directly linked to Jangheung's future growth, including the confirmation of the feasibility study for the 6th national and provincial road construction plan, the selection of the Jangheung rural revitalization 3.0 project, and the advancement of the food tech research support center. The 6th national and provincial road construction plan aims to enhance transportation accessibility between regions and expand logistics and tourism infrastructure. Jangheung County plans to improve its road network to increase transportation convenience for residents and stimulate local industry and tourism. The rural revitalization 3.0 project, centered around Hoejin Port, seeks to improve living conditions in fishing villages and harbors while promoting local economic revitalization through tourism resources. The food tech research support center project aims to foster the future food industry by integrating local agricultural and fishery products with advanced food technology. The plan includes establishing a hub for research, demonstration, and business support to enhance the competitiveness of the local food industry and create job opportunities for youth while attracting businesses. Through this National Assembly visit, Jangheung County aims to strengthen cooperation with the central government, the National Assembly, and relevant agencies to accelerate the progress of key initiatives. Mayor Sa stated, "The start of the 9th administration must focus on securing national funding and attracting national projects for the future of Jangheung. We will work closely with the National Assembly and the central government to achieve tangible results that residents can feel." Looking ahead, Jangheung County plans to continuously monitor the progress of major national funding projects and maintain visits to central government agencies and the National Assembly to enhance external cooperation for resolving local issues and securing national budgets.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:32:00
Kwak Sang-eon Opposes Criminal Procedure Law Amendment, Citing Public Suffering Kwak Sang-eon, the only member of the Democratic Party to oppose the amendment to the Criminal Procedure Law aimed at abolishing supplementary investigation rights, stated, "I had no other choice."On July 31, Kwak expressed his concerns on Facebook, saying, "I can see the suffering of the people, and I can hear their tears." Earlier that day, the amendment was passed with 175 votes in favor out of 178 present (2 opposed, 1 abstained). Kwak and Lee Joo-young from the Reform Party voted against it, while Lee So-young from the Democratic Party abstained.The amendment is a follow-up to the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and Prosecution Act, which will take effect on October 2. It aims to completely separate investigation and prosecution, eliminating prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights and direct investigation powers. However, there are concerns regarding victim protection.Meanwhile, lawmakers from the People Power Party, opposing the amendment, chose to abstain from the vote. Chief Spokesperson Choi Eun-seok criticized the Democratic Party, stating, "The Democratic Party, which has betrayed the people, will surely pay a price," adding that crime victims will now have no recourse other than vague expectations that the police will uncover the truth.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:32:00
Yeongam County Supports Safe Mobility for Disabled Amid Heatwave Yeongam County has launched a customized sunshade installation project to support the safe mobility of disabled individuals using electric mobility aids during the ongoing heatwave.On July 30, Yeongam County conducted a volunteer initiative to install sunshades for electric mobility aid users at the Yeongam County Community Center, the county announced on July 31.This project was selected for funding through a public competition by the Korea Central Volunteer Center, receiving 100% government support. It aims to prevent heat-related illnesses among disabled individuals who are often exposed to high temperatures for extended periods and to create a safer mobility environment.Individuals with physical and neurological disabilities using electric mobility aids often cannot use umbrellas or parasols while operating their devices, leaving them vulnerable to direct sunlight.In response, Yeongam County paired ten members of the Yeongam Women’s Volunteer Association, a national leader in K-volunteering, with ten disabled individuals for one-on-one assistance in assembling and installing customized sunshades equipped with UV protection and waterproof features.Additionally, the county provided safety training on heatwave response. The training included guidance on adequate hydration, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours (12 PM to 5 PM), and parking mobility aids in shaded areas to prevent battery overheating, thereby raising safety awareness.Yeongam County anticipates that this initiative will not only enhance mobility for disabled individuals but also help prevent health issues related to summer heat.Yeongam County Mayor Woo Seung-hee stated, "I hope this sunshade will provide a reliable shelter for disabled individuals who cannot stop moving even in the heat, aiding their safe mobility. We will continue to provide meticulous support through public projects and volunteer efforts to ensure that vulnerable groups, including the disabled, can safely maintain their daily lives during heatwaves."Meanwhile, Yeongam County plans to expand its community-based safety support initiatives for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and disabled, in response to the increasing number of heatwave days due to climate change, and will continue to implement tailored welfare services in collaboration with volunteer organizations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:24:00
Gwangju Education Office Progresses on Children's Forest Play Experience Center The Gwangju Metropolitan City Education Office is smoothly advancing the construction of the '(tentative name) Gwangju Metropolitan City Education Office Children's Forest Play Experience Center' in the Ipamsan area of Mokpo, targeting an opening in the second half of 2027.On July 30, the Gwangju Education Office held a report meeting at the Jeonnam Government Building to comprehensively review the status of the indoor playground and interior design for the Children's Forest Play Experience Center, as well as future schedules.The meeting included the chief planner, task force (TF) members, early childhood education experts, and design and construction personnel, who shared design plans reflecting children's developmental characteristics and safety, as well as a nature-friendly educational environment, while gathering various opinions.Participants particularly focused on assessing the design's completeness based on a child-centered and play-oriented curriculum, discussing ways to create an environment where children can play and learn safely and freely after the center opens.The Children's Forest Play Experience Center will be a nature-oriented facility located in the Ipamsan Park area of Mokpo. It aims to support children's creativity, physical development, and emotional growth through play activities utilizing forests and nature.The facility will include an integrated playroom, dining area, health room, and rest areas, while outdoor spaces will feature a forest playground, water playground, and various nature experience facilities.Currently, the construction progress has surpassed 68%, with basic interior finishing work proceeding as planned. The education office intends to complete the indoor space and play facility installations without delay, aiming for a 2027 opening.Kim Byeong-nam, head of the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Division at the Gwangju Education Office, stated, "This report meeting has established the basic framework for a child-centered, nature-friendly indoor play space. We will create a high-quality play experience area where children can learn and grow safely and joyfully, providing a happy learning environment for young children in the Gwangju area."Meanwhile, the Gwangju Education Office plans to develop the Children's Forest Play Experience Center into a representative facility where nature, play, and education converge, enhancing the quality of early childhood education in the region and supporting healthy growth and creative learning activities for children.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:20:00