Gwangju Mayor Park Kwan-yeol emphasized the need for government support corresponding to regulatory burdens during a meeting on August 12.
After visiting the Han River Flood Control Center in Seoul, Mayor Park met with the Minister of Environment to discuss key issues facing Gwangju and to request government attention and practical support for various regulations hindering local development.
Currently, Gwangju is actively communicating with the central government to address overlapping regulations and local issues.
Mayor Park stated, "Gwangju has endured various regulations for a long time to protect the water sources and natural environment of the metropolitan area. Therefore, as national projects are pursued, it is essential that the government and local governments work together to find solutions that do not place an undue burden on Gwangju and its citizens."
In particular, he urged for measures to minimize Gwangju's burden related to the integrated water supply project for the Yongin semiconductor industrial complex, while considering the existing regulations that complicate Gwangju's situation.
While acknowledging the importance of the semiconductor industry for national competitiveness, he stressed that additional burdens should not be concentrated on specific regions due to national projects, and requested that "the perspectives of Gwangju and the voices of its citizens be adequately reflected in the project process."
Additionally, Mayor Park called for active government interest and support for major local issues, including the development of a park golf course in Gwangdong-ri, and the creation of historical and cultural trails around Namhansanseong and Cheonjinam.
He explained, "To improve the leisure and living environment for citizens and to promote tourism utilizing local historical and cultural resources, cooperation from the central government is necessary for these projects to proceed smoothly."
During the meeting, he conveyed that "Gwangju has endured various regulations for a long time to protect the water sources and natural environment of the metropolitan area, but the constraints on local development are significant."
He added, "I will continue to communicate with the government to ensure that the challenges faced by Gwangju and its citizens are adequately reflected in the process of pursuing national projects."
In response, the Minister of Environment expressed understanding of Gwangju's difficulties due to various regulations and indicated a willingness to actively cooperate in seeking solutions that allow the government and local governments to thrive together.
Citizens have reacted positively to Mayor Park's request for government support and cooperation on local issues, stating that "the central government should understand the regulatory burdens faced by Gwangju and respond with practical support."
There is a shared sentiment, particularly regarding the need to minimize Gwangju's additional burden related to the integrated water supply project for the Yongin semiconductor industrial complex.
Citizens acknowledged the necessity of national projects but insisted that Gwangju residents should not bear the burden alone, expressing hope that the government's requests will lead to regulatory improvements, resolution of local issues, and enhanced quality of life for citizens.
Meanwhile, Mayor Park plans to strengthen the cooperation framework with the central government through this meeting, aiming to alleviate regulatory burdens and resolve local issues while ensuring that Gwangju can fulfill its national role and that citizens can enjoy corresponding benefits and opportunities for local development.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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