AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Gwangmyeong Mayor Calls for Education Structure Reform in Gyeonggi Province
    Gwangmyeong Mayor Calls for Education Structure Reform in Gyeonggi Province Shin Kyeyong, the mayor of Gwangmyeong, has strongly urged the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education to ensure student school choice and improve the student placement plan for the 2027 academic year to normalize the education structure in Gwangmyeong. On August 24, Mayor Shin attended a breakfast meeting organized by the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education at the Ansan Education Support Center, where he personally delivered the 'Proposal for Education Structure Improvement in Gwangmyeong' to Gyeonggi Education Superintendent Ahn Min-seok. This meeting was held to discuss regional educational issues ahead of the 'Breaking Down Walls Policy Agreement' scheduled for September between Gyeonggi Province, 31 cities and counties, and the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education. During the meeting, Mayor Shin presented the improvement of Gwangmyeong's education structure as one of the most urgent educational issues in the region, emphasizing the need for local governments and the education office to create practical solutions beyond institutional boundaries. In particular, Mayor Shin maintained that redesigning student placement and school operation structures to fit local realities is a priority for improving the educational environment that students and parents can feel. Mayor Shin requested that the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education ensure school choice for Gwangmyeong students and establish a student placement plan for the 2027 academic year that reflects actual educational demands in the region. He also reiterated the need for the education office to actively review the results of the education structure improvement research conducted by Gwangmyeong last year and to take concrete action. On this day, Mayor Shin stated, "I hope for a prompt decision that considers the urgent feelings of Gwangmyeong parents and students. If there is anything Gwangmyeong can assist with, we will actively cooperate." Mayor Shin has been working to address structural issues in the local educational environment through research and studies on education structure improvement. Therefore, this proposal signifies a call to connect previous research and discussions to actual policies and administration for education structure improvement. He views education structure improvement not merely as a school placement issue but as a matter directly related to the educational choices of students and parents, as well as the future educational environment in Gwangmyeong, urging the education office to make swift decisions. Meanwhile, Mayor Shin plans to actively respond to ensure that student placement and educational environment improvements reflecting local educational demands are achieved through ongoing consultations with the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 19:56:00
  • Ruling Adilet sweeps first vote for new Kazakh parliament
    Ruling Adilet sweeps first vote for new Kazakh parliament Almaty, August 24 (AJP) -Kazakhstan's ruling Adilet party swept to a landslide victory with 71.17 percent of the vote in preliminary results from Sunday's parliamentary election, far ahead of its rivals in the country's first vote for the new single-chamber Kurultai. The Central Election Commission said Monday that Adilet received 6,528,948 votes. Auyl came a distant second with 6.26 percent, followed by Respublica with 5.56 percent, Ak Zhol with 5.21 percent and the Nationwide Social Democratic Party with 5.11 percent. The five cleared the 5 percent threshold required to win representation in the 145-member Kurultai. The People's Party of Kazakhstan received 3.11 percent and the Baitaq Green Party 1.0 percent, falling below the threshold. Another 2.51 percent of voters chose the "against all" option. Adilet finished 64.91 percentage points ahead of Auyl. The other four parties that crossed the threshold were grouped closely between 5.11 percent and 6.26 percent. The final distribution of the Kurultai's 145 seats has yet to be announced. Turnout stood at a preliminary 74.08 percent, with 9,351,539 of 12,623,289 registered voters taking part, according to the CEC. That was nearly 20 percentage points higher than the 54.21 percent turnout in Kazakhstan's 2023 parliamentary election. A new parliament Sunday's election was the first parliamentary vote under Kazakhstan's new Constitution, approved in a nationwide referendum on March 15. It took effect on July 1. The change ended about three decades of a two-chamber parliament under the system established in 1995. The former Senate and lower-house Mazhilis have been replaced by the Kurultai, a single chamber with 145 deputies serving five-year terms. The way lawmakers are elected has also changed. In 2023, 69 Mazhilis members were elected through party lists and 29 from individual districts, where independent candidates could also run. This time, all Kurultai members are elected through party lists under proportional representation in one nationwide constituency. Kazakhstan's party system also changed ahead of the election. Adilet was established earlier this year and absorbed Amanat, the country's long-dominant ruling party, in June. Amanat won 53.90 percent of the party-list vote in the 2023 election. The two results cannot be directly compared because both the election system and the parties have changed. But the merger meant Adilet entered its first national election with much of Amanat's existing political base behind it. The seven parties differed over what to focus on, but their campaigns broadly shared promises of economic growth, national development and better living standards. Adilet focused on stronger government institutions, law and order and economic growth. Auyl emphasized farming, food security and rural development. Respublica focused on entrepreneurs and private business, while Ak Zhol stressed business conditions and stronger parliamentary oversight. The Social Democrats put more weight on labor rights and social protection. For some voters, however, the question was much simpler - whether the new parliament could make daily life better. "I voted with the hope that the incoming parliament would put jobs and the cost of living at the top of its agenda," said Anastassia Akhmetova, a 25-year-old office worker. Akhmetova said people wanted to see and feel real change in their everyday lives. Yerjan, a 27-year-old taxi driver, said he did not vote because his work schedule left him little time to go to a polling station. He said he nevertheless hoped the election would help Kazakhstan move in a better direction. Regional observers back election process Regional election observers gave largely positive assessments of how voting was carried out. The Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States, or TURKPA, called the election an important step in Kazakhstan's political development, noting that it was the first parliamentary vote under the new single-chamber system. Its observers said voting was orderly at the polling stations they visited and that voters were able to cast their ballots in secret and without interference. TURKPA also praised steps taken to make voting easier for people with disabilities and Kazakh citizens living abroad. Its representatives highlighted the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, saying some of Kazakhstan's practices could be useful for other Turkic states. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization also gave a positive assessment. The SCO said its 17 observers from six member states visited 120 polling stations in Astana and the nearby Akmola Region before and during election day. The mission said it received no complaints or objections on election day and saw no violations that it believed could have affected the result. Observers also noted families and younger voters arriving at polling stations despite periods of rain on Sunday. The election has also drawn attention from Kazakhstan's neighbors. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov congratulated President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the Kazakh people on the election, saying he was confident the new Kurultai would help strengthen Kazakhstan's state institutions and support its economic and social development. Japarov also expressed hope that the Kyrgyz-Kazakh strategic partnership would continue to deepen in the interests of peace, stability and development across Central Asia. The comments come as Central Asian countries work more closely on trade, transport, energy and water. Kazakhstan plays a major role in many of those efforts because of its size, economy and location between China, Russia and the rest of Central Asia. Kazakhstan's foreign policy remains largely led by the presidency. The Kurultai, however, will vote on laws and budgets that can support trade, infrastructure and agreements with other countries. That gives the new parliament a role in how Kazakhstan carries out both its domestic plans and its cooperation with neighboring countries. For now, the first test will be at home. Adilet enters the new system with an overwhelming lead, while four much smaller parties have also crossed the threshold for seats. One question will be whether those parties can turn their different priorities into real debate inside the Kurultai. 2026-08-24 19:46:02
  • Anyang City Council Discusses Key Urban Transportation Issues with Executives
    Anyang City Council Discusses Key Urban Transportation Issues with Executives The Urban Transportation Committee of Anyang City Council held a meeting on August 24 with officials from relevant executive agencies to share key issues and discuss collaboration strategies.According to the city council, this meeting aimed to enhance mutual understanding between the newly formed 10th Anyang City Council's Urban Transportation Committee and the relevant executive agencies, facilitating more efficient progress on major urban and transportation issues.Attendees included committee members and relevant public officials, who reviewed their responsibilities and key issues, exchanged ideas on collaboration during policy implementation, and discussed ways to improve citizen convenience.Participants particularly agreed on the importance of smooth communication and cooperation between the council and executive agencies to resolve local issues.They also committed to faithfully reflecting the voices of the community and citizen opinions in policies, working together to develop practical solutions beyond mere administrative discussions.Local citizens have responded positively to the meeting.Many see the significance of the council and executive agencies sharing opinions in advance and seeking solutions on issues directly affecting citizens' daily lives, such as urban development, transportation, and living infrastructure.One citizen expressed, “I hope the inconveniences and local issues that citizens experience are thoroughly discussed between the council and administrative agencies and lead to actual policies. I expect follow-up actions that residents can feel, rather than just verbal cooperation.”Another citizen noted, “Urban and transportation issues cannot be resolved by the efforts of a single agency, so it is important for the council and executive agencies to maintain ongoing communication.”Meanwhile, Urban Transportation Committee Chair Kwon Dong-yoon stated, “The first step for the Urban Transportation Committee begins with smooth communication and cooperation with executive agencies.”He emphasized, “We will do our best to carefully examine the major local issues based on the voices of citizens and develop solutions that allow them to feel real changes.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 19:32:00
  • Seongnam Youth Film Festival Concludes
    Seongnam Youth Film Festival Concludes The Seongnam Youth Foundation's Jeongja Youth Center hosted the 2026 Seongnam Youth Film Awards (SNYFA), which concluded on August 22 amid significant interest from youth and the public. According to the foundation, the finals and awards ceremony took place at CGV Yatap. The event attracted over 140 attendees, including youth, families, and citizens, who watched films created by young directors. This year's festival, now in its third edition, featured 12 films that advanced from preliminary screenings. The showcased works spanned various genres, including drama, documentary, and animation, reflecting the perspectives and thoughts of young filmmakers. The event also included a special screening of last year's Grand Prize-winning film, along with side events organized by the Jeongja Youth Center's media planning group and audience voting for the audience award. Attendees expressed interest in the creative process and the films produced by their peers. During the awards ceremony, prizes were awarded for Grand Prize, Best Excellence, and Excellence, with the Grand Prize going to Cha Joo-young (team name 'Studio Cha') for the film 'Dream.' Participants, including youth and citizens, enjoyed watching the films on the big screen, gaining new insights and stories. For many young viewers, it was an opportunity to engage with the works of their peers, while families and citizens recognized the creativity and potential of youth filmmakers. Yang Kyung-seok, the CEO, stated, "I saw the potential for the future of the Korean film industry in the youth who are dedicated to creating their works while contemplating their career paths. We will continue to support them so they do not give up on their dreams and keep challenging themselves, regardless of the awards." Meanwhile, the Jeongja Youth Center plans to support the English translation and poster production for the award-winning films, facilitating their submission and screening at international youth film festivals.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 19:12:00
  • Farmers Rally Against CPTPP Membership, Urging Food Security Considerations
    Farmers Rally Against CPTPP Membership, Urging Food Security Considerations As the government officially considers joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), opposition from agricultural groups is growing. They argue that further opening of agricultural and fishery markets could undermine domestic production and threaten food security. Experts emphasize that the government should first commit to fostering agriculture as a national strategic industry before pursuing CPTPP membership.High Tariff Elimination Rates... Potential Imports from Non-FTA CountriesOn August 24, the Korean Federation of Agricultural Management Associations and the Korean Federation of Fisheries Management Associations held a press conference at the National Assembly, expressing their concerns following the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's announcement of a review of CPTPP membership. They stated, "The unilateral push for this policy is raising significant concerns in the agricultural sector, and we will respond strongly to protect the food sovereignty of the nation and the survival rights of farmers and fishermen."The agricultural community is particularly worried about the potential acceleration of market openings during the CPTPP membership process. The CPTPP has a higher tariff elimination rate for agricultural products compared to existing free trade agreements (FTAs), and it is difficult to set exceptions. The Korean Federation of Agricultural Management Associations noted, "Significant challenges are expected regarding additional opening demands during the negotiation process, as well as adjustments to existing agreements."There is also a high likelihood that agricultural and fishery products from countries without FTAs will enter the market at lower tariffs. Currently, 12 countries, including the UK, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, and Mexico, are participating in the CPTPP. South Korea has not signed FTAs with some of these countries, including Mexico. However, if South Korea joins the CPTPP, products like Mexican chili and avocados could enter the country duty-free.Concerns about weakened food sovereignty and compromised food safety are also being raised. The Korean Federation of Agricultural Management Associations warned that the additional opening of agricultural and fishery markets could lead to the collapse of domestic agricultural production, ultimately weakening the nation's food sovereignty. They expressed concern that further market openings for Japanese seafood could seriously threaten food safety, especially given ongoing safety controversies surrounding the release of contaminated water from Fukushima.KREI Estimates Potential Annual Losses of Up to 440 Billion Won... Rice Opening is a Key ConcernIf CPTPP membership becomes a reality, there are analyses suggesting that farmers' agricultural incomes could decline. The elimination of tariffs on cheaper imported agricultural products could further squeeze the market for domestic products, particularly for rice farmers.The Korea Rural Economic Institute (KREI) projected during a public hearing in 2022 that joining the CPTPP could result in annual losses ranging from 85.3 billion to 440 billion won in the agricultural sector over 15 years. The potential entry of agricultural powerhouses as new members could exacerbate these losses. KREI emphasized that if China joins the CPTPP, additional damages across all agricultural sectors, including fruits and vegetables, are expected.The expansion of agricultural imports could lead to a decrease in farmers' incomes. According to national data, agricultural income over the past five years has remained stagnant, with figures of 12.96 million won in 2021, 9.49 million won in 2022, 11.14 million won in 2023, 9.58 million won in 2024, and 11.71 million won in 2025. In this context, the opening of agricultural markets is seen as a factor hindering income growth.The distribution of imported rice is also a major concern for farmers. The GSnJ Institute noted in a 2022 report that Vietnam, a major rice-exporting country, is likely to be interested in the South Korean market. They pointed out that South Korea excluded rice from the scope of the Korea-Vietnam FTA, and negotiations on market access with Vietnam during the CPTPP membership talks are expected to be a hot topic.Experts stress that the government must first work to persuade farmers before pursuing CPTPP membership. Kim Han-ho, a professor emeritus at Seoul National University, stated, "The agricultural cooperation fund established during the Korea-China FTA in 2015 has only reached about 30%. The government must recognize this reality and prioritize persuading farmers."He added, "In the era of climate crisis, advanced countries are approaching agriculture from a security perspective, similar to defense industries. Just as the U.S. Congress is promoting the 'Farm-Food-National Security Act,' our government must first promise the agricultural community to elevate agriculture as a national strategic industry."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 19:04:00
  • CPTPP Dilemma: Mexico Lowers Tariffs and Japan Opens Up Further—Will Exports Benefit?
    CPTPP Dilemma: Mexico Lowers Tariffs and Japan Opens Up Further—Will Exports Benefit? As protectionism from the United States and supply chain uncertainties spread, the need for South Korea to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is growing. Membership could lower tariff barriers with Mexico, which does not have a free trade agreement (FTA) with South Korea, and provide greater access to the Japanese market compared to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).Utilizing regional cumulative origin rules is expected to help connect production networks spread across various member countries, thereby expanding intermediate exports and diversifying supply chains.According to relevant government departments, the CPTPP has been in effect since 2018 and will see the United Kingdom join in 2024, bringing the total number of participating countries to 12, including Japan, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Mexico. South Korea has established bilateral or multilateral FTA relationships with 11 of these countries, excluding Mexico.Mexico is a key export market for South Korea's main products, such as automobiles, auto parts, steel, and machinery, and serves as a production base for North American market entry. However, without an FTA with Mexico, South Korea faces unfavorable tariff conditions compared to CPTPP members like Japan and Vietnam. Joining the CPTPP is expected to enhance the price competitiveness of domestic small and medium-sized enterprises supplying both finished products and materials and components if tariff barriers are reduced.Additional market access in Japan is also anticipated. While South Korea and Japan established their first FTA relationship through the RCEP, the level of openness is lower than that of the CPTPP. Membership in the CPTPP would not only broaden the scope of tariff eliminations but also expand market access in services, investment, and government procurement.Under the CPTPP, materials that meet the origin requirements of other member countries can be treated as domestic materials, allowing for cumulative origin determinations. This means South Korean companies can meet item-specific origin standards using regionally sourced intermediate goods procured from countries like Vietnam and Malaysia.The economic benefits of joining have been highlighted in various studies. The Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP) previously analyzed that South Korea's real GDP could increase by 0.33% to 0.35% with CPTPP membership, and consumer welfare could rise by $3 billion. The Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade also projected that South Korea's net exports could increase by an average of $600 million to $900 million annually over 15 years if it joins. During the same period, domestic production is expected to grow by an average of 1.18 trillion to 1.82 trillion won.However, since South Korea has already signed FTAs with many member countries, the extent of additional tariff reductions and export benefits may vary by country and product. Existing member countries may also demand further openings in agricultural and marine products during membership negotiations, which could be a variable.There are calls to comprehensively assess the benefits of tariff reductions, supply chains, and trade norms while minimizing damage to the agricultural and fisheries sectors.Jung Sung-hoon, head of the Industrial and Market Policy Research Division at the Korea Development Institute (KDI), stated, "While South Korea has individual FTAs with many member countries, the CPTPP encompasses new trade agendas beyond goods, including environment, labor, digital, and intellectual property rights. In a situation where the World Trade Organization (WTO) has been effectively paralyzed, joining the CPTPP remains a valid and effective means."He added, "Many member countries have abundant raw materials, so joining could be advantageous for broadening procurement sources and stabilizing supply chains."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 19:04:00
  • South Korea Considers Joining CPTPP Amid Rising Protectionism
    South Korea Considers Joining CPTPP Amid Rising Protectionism As protectionism from the United States and supply chain restructuring intensify, the South Korean government is reconsidering its potential membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This decision comes amid a growing need to secure new markets and expand South Korea's position in the rapidly changing global trade landscape.However, the high level of market openness required poses a significant challenge, particularly in addressing the agricultural sector's concerns regarding potential backlash.According to relevant government departments, discussions are ongoing about the necessity of joining the CPTPP and its impact on various industries. The aim is to secure new markets in Mexico and ASEAN while accelerating exports of consumer goods centered around K-content.The CPTPP is a multilateral free trade agreement led by Japan, which restructured the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) after the United States withdrew. Currently, it includes Japan, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Vietnam, and most recently, the United Kingdom, bringing the total to 12 member countries.The combined GDP of CPTPP member countries is $15.9 trillion, accounting for 14.3% of the global GDP. The average tariff elimination rate is 98.8%, with exports among member countries projected to reach $618 billion by 2024, reflecting an annual growth rate of 3.2% since the agreement's implementation.The renewed emphasis on joining the CPTPP stems primarily from the need for market diversification. South Korea has already established bilateral and regional free trade agreements (FTAs) with most CPTPP member countries. However, it lacks a trade agreement with Mexico, meaning that joining the CPTPP could lead to tariff reductions and integration into regional value chains. Last year, South Korea's exports to CPTPP member countries totaled $164.8 billion, while imports reached $164.3 billion.The rapid expansion of the CPTPP is also a source of concern for the South Korean government. Costa Rica has nearly completed its membership negotiations and is expected to become the 13th member next year. Uruguay is currently in negotiations, while Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines have begun preliminary discussions. Additionally, countries like Uruguay, Taiwan, and Ukraine, which do not have separate trade agreements with South Korea, have submitted applications to join.If Costa Rica becomes a member, it could complicate South Korea's negotiation structure, as all existing member countries must agree to new entrants. This means that if Costa Rica officially joins, South Korea will have one more country to seek consent from in future negotiations. There are concerns that remaining outside the CPTPP amid its ongoing expansion could lead to significant opportunity costs in shaping trade norms and participating in regional supply chains.The Korea International Trade Association's International Trade and Economic Research Institute stated in a report that not participating in the CPTPP, which leads the advancement of trade norms reflecting the changing trade environment, could result in future opportunity costs. It noted that as alliances expand in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond, future trade norms may model after the CPTPP.The main issue lies within the agricultural sector. The CPTPP includes countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, which have strong agricultural export competitiveness. The agricultural sector is concerned that negotiations may demand a higher level of market openness for agricultural products than existing FTAs.In fact, the Korea Federation of Agricultural Management Associations and the Korea Federation of Fisheries Management Associations held a press conference, stating, "The government must prioritize the sustainability of agriculture and fisheries, the survival rights of farmers and fishermen, and the safety of the nation's food supply. We demand an immediate halt to the review of CPTPP membership without sufficient consultation with agricultural stakeholders."In response, the government acknowledges that persuading the agricultural sector and other stakeholders will be a key variable in the membership review process. Park Jeong-seong, head of the Trade Negotiation Bureau at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, emphasized during his inauguration that the government must consistently implement diversification policies and actively communicate with business leaders, farmers, and field representatives. A government official also noted, "The CPTPP is a matter that requires communication not only from various departments but also from relevant interest groups and organizations."Kim Da-som, a researcher at the Korea International Trade Association's International Trade and Economic Research Institute, stated, "Joining the CPTPP could have positive effects on our economy in terms of market diversification, supply chain stability, and reducing transaction costs through unified trade norms. However, we must also consider the impact on sensitive industries like agriculture, and it is essential to gather sufficient opinions from domestic stakeholders before deciding on membership."She added, "As the CPTPP expands its membership while also advancing the agreement, these factors should be taken into account when considering membership. Rather than rushing to join, we should assess the impact on sensitive domestic industries and the ongoing expansion and enhancement of the CPTPP to determine the appropriate timing for membership."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 19:04:00
  • Cho Jung-sik: Role of Parliament Essential for Advancing Korea-China Relations
    Cho Jung-sik: Role of Parliament Essential for Advancing Korea-China Relations On August 24, marking the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and China, National Assembly Speaker Cho Jung-sik emphasized the importance of parliamentary roles in advancing cooperation between the two nations ahead of the upcoming APEC summit in November. This statement reflects a commitment to contribute to the mature development of the strategic partnership between the two countries.In a post on his Facebook, Cho stated, "Communication between institutions representing the people is the closest channel for translating the outcomes of diplomatic efforts into the lives of citizens."He highlighted the progress made in various fields, including economic, cultural, and human exchanges, since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, noting that "the exchanges and trust built by the people of both countries serve as a solid foundation for today's Korea-China relations."Cho argued that the momentum for restoring relations, initiated since the launch of the Lee Jae-myung administration, including high-level diplomatic meetings, should lead to tangible results that the citizens of both nations can feel.He expressed hope for expanding mutually beneficial and balanced cooperation in economy, livelihood, culture, and human exchanges, while respecting the sentiments of both peoples on remaining issues. He also conveyed a desire for China to continue its constructive role in ensuring peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 18:48:00
  • 775 Tourist Attractions in Gyeongnam Selected by Public Vote
    775 Tourist Attractions in Gyeongnam Selected by Public Vote Gyeongnam Province announced on August 24 that a total of 775 tourist attractions in the region were selected through a public vote as part of the "100×100 Project for Discovering Korea's Attractions," organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization.The "100×100 Project for Discovering Korea's Attractions" is a public participation initiative that identifies 100 travel themes across eight categories based on recommendations from 100 travel experts. In this evaluation, Gyeongnam's resources were evenly represented across the eight categories from 18 cities and counties.In specific categories, Miryang's Ice Valley ranked first in the nature and ecology category under the theme "Air Conditioner in the Forest and Valley," while Sancheong's Dongui Yaksun Gwan topped the culinary category with the theme "Vegan Cuisine." Additionally, Hamyang's Jeseokbong (Climbing to the Top of the Stairs) excelled in the architecture category, and Hamyang's "Great Whale Swimming in Jirisan" (Zero Waste Road) led in the lifestyle category, showcasing Gyeongnam's tourism potential.Despite the impressive selection of 775 attractions, concerns have been raised about Gyeongnam Province's follow-up actions. According to the Gyeongnam Tourism Policy Division, the province has not yet established a "selection and concentration" strategy or detailed follow-up marketing plans to leverage these extensive tourism resources for actual economic revitalization or sustainable tourism.A provincial official stated, "We plan to utilize the selected attractions in future promotions for other regions," but acknowledged that specific follow-up measures, including a focused strategy and guidelines, have not yet been thoroughly reviewed.Recently, domestic and international tourists seeking alternatives to Seoul have begun to explore Gyeongnam's hidden small cities. This trend presents a crucial opportunity to attract visitors through connections with KTX and public transportation networks. However, there is a noticeable lack of systematic master plans or improvements to transportation and accommodation infrastructure at the metropolitan level.Particularly for nature and ecology-focused attractions like Miryang's Ice Valley and Hamyang's Jeseokbong, the potential for increased visitor numbers raises concerns about environmental degradation and safety incidents, making measures to prevent over-tourism essential. However, there are currently no administrative guidelines in place to address these issues.An industry expert remarked, "It is not enough to simply distribute press releases about the numerous selections; the 775 resources need to be reorganized by grade and theme. Gyeongnam Province must quickly establish a concrete roadmap that balances attracting actual visitors with environmental protection."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 18:44:00
  • NC Medi Medical Waste Incinerator to Relocate to Non-Residential Area
    NC Medi Medical Waste Incinerator to Relocate to Non-Residential Area NC Medi's medical waste incineration facility, located near Jeonggwan New Town in Gijang County, will finally be relocated to a non-residential area after years of complaints about odors and harmful substances.While Gijang County and the company have reached a preliminary agreement on the relocation, specific sites and timelines have yet to be determined. The estimated relocation costs are between 20 billion and 30 billion won, making the acquisition of a new site, resident consent, and swift administrative procedures critical to the project's success.On August 24, Gijang County signed a memorandum of understanding with NC Medi regarding the relocation of the medical waste incineration facility.The agreement stipulates that the company will find and secure a site in a non-residential area and bear all associated costs. Gijang County has committed to actively supporting the necessary administrative procedures, contingent on legal compliance and resident approval.The incineration facility, which has faced strong demands for relocation and closure from residents for over 15 years, is currently situated near densely populated apartment complexes and schools. However, this agreement marks the initial step toward relocation, with specific sites still to be identified.NC Medi's Chief Executive Officer stated, "While we have been internally reviewing potential relocation sites, we are not at the stage of discussing specific candidates yet. Today’s agreement will allow us to begin the search for a site sufficiently distanced from residential areas."The exact minimum distance from existing residential areas has not yet been established. An NC Medi representative noted, "The positions of the company, Gijang County, and residents may differ, so there will be aspects that need to be coordinated moving forward. Even if the company believes the site is adequately distanced, residents may feel differently."Gijang County Mayor Woo Seong-bin also emphasized at a press conference, "Today marks the real beginning. As the company explores various potential sites, we will discuss feasibility with them in the future." He specifically mentioned that relocating the facility outside the county is not realistically feasible, suggesting that moving it to a non-residential area within Gijang County is the most viable option.Relocation costs estimated at 20 to 30 billion won, fully covered by NC MediNC Medi will bear the full cost of the substantial expenses associated with the relocation.Chairman Kang Kyung-jin projected that the costs could range from 20 billion to 30 billion won, depending on land acquisition and facility size. The agreement explicitly states that Gijang County will not provide any financial support for the relocation.Regarding funding plans, the CEO stated, "No company prepares for such a large-scale project without a plan. While I cannot disclose specific funding methods at this time, we are fully prepared internally." Chairman Kang also explained, "If Gijang County plays a supportive role in site selection and administrative procedures, we believe we can absorb the remaining costs."The timeline for the final relocation has not been confirmed. Mayor Woo stated, "Our top priority is to complete the full relocation within my term," but acknowledged that physical time is needed for land acquisition, design, permits, and facility construction. He provided a realistic roadmap, stating that by the end of his term, they aim to finalize the site selection and relocation decision.As the agreement does not specify a concrete deadline for completion, the effectiveness of the agreement will depend on how quickly and thoroughly the county and the company can establish an implementation schedule.Until the new incineration facility is completed, environmental management of the existing site remains a challenge. Gijang County has stated it will enhance environmental management and oversight of the current facility to minimize resident inconvenience until the relocation is complete.NC Medi also reported that it is managing emissions below regulatory limits through its own measurements and regular inspections by relevant agencies, including the Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office. However, they acknowledged understanding residents' concerns and pledged to pay closer attention to management until the relocation is finalized.Chairman Kang noted, "Our facility has been in operation for 30 years, but the development of Jeonggwan New Town has led to conflicts between existing industrial facilities and residential areas." He added, "Even if the facility is legal, it is not an ideal environment for residents, similar to a dilapidated diesel truck idling next to a children's playground, which has prompted us to consider relocation."Gijang County hopes this agreement will signal the beginning of resolving the long-standing grievances of Jeonggwan residents.Mayor Woo stated, "This is a meaningful first step to protect the safety of our residents, and we will work with the company to find a relocation site and actively assist with administrative procedures."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 18:40:00