Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon expressed his commitment to actively collaborate with Jeon Jae-soo, the mayor of Busan from the Democratic Party, to address issues in Busan Buk-gu and the western Busan area.
He indicated a pragmatic approach, suggesting that local projects should be credited to the city while he focuses on securing budget allocations at the National Assembly.
On the morning of September 14, Han and Busan City officials held their first budget policy meeting in a small conference room at Busan City Hall. While the meeting included key city officials such as Deputy Mayor Oh Seok-geun and the Special Advisor for Political Affairs, Mayor Jeon did not attend, preventing a planned meeting between the two.
The agenda included nine key regional issues, such as the second phase of the relocation of public institutions, timely opening of Gadeokdo New Airport, conversion of the Baptist Hospital into a public hospital, and establishing a safe drinking water supply system. Additionally, 17 projects requiring national funding for the next year were discussed, including the establishment of the National Quantum Innovation Center and the construction of a demonstration center for marine ports and harbors.
Han highlighted two major tasks for Buk-gu: the elevation of the Gyeongbu Line railway and the relocation of the railway vehicle depot. He noted that the railway, which once spurred development in the Gupo area, now disrupts the urban landscape and hinders local growth.
The traffic congestion issue at the Mandeok entrance and exit, exacerbated since the opening of the Mandeok-Centum urban expressway, was also a significant topic. In response, Busan City has secured 2.19 billion won for road structure improvements and traffic impact monitoring services.
"If budget allocations are based solely on population and business efficiency, the western Busan area will inevitably remain a low priority," Han stated. He warned that investment concentrated in the more economically viable eastern Busan could widen the gap between the east and west.
After the meeting, Han visited the Busan City Council briefing room, stating, "Rather than inserting minor projects, I will ensure significant funding flows into Buk-gu. If Busan City takes the initiative, I will assist at the National Assembly."
He remarked on Jeon, saying, "The citizens of Buk-gu made Jeon Jae-soo the mayor, didn’t they? I don’t mind being a supporting role while he takes the lead."
Han demonstrated a strong willingness to transcend party affiliations and political differences in pursuit of their shared goal of developing Gupo, Deokcheon, and Mandeok.
In response to criticism from the Democratic Party regarding his recent collaboration with Kim Hyo-jung, a Busan City Council member from the People Power Party, Han asserted, "If it’s for the benefit of Busan, I will join hands with Mayor Jeon Jae-soo. Don’t be petty and try to undermine this effort."
The Q&A session transitioned to discussions about the upcoming confirmation hearing for Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Justice Minister, scheduled for September 15.
Han raised allegations that Kim contacted the head of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in 2021 at the request of an acquaintance to expedite the clinical trial approval process for Genensel’s COVID-19 treatment. The candidate's treatment was administered to 93 patients during the trial.
Han criticized the administration of a drug with missing records related to animal testing deaths, labeling it as a "poison lobbying" issue.
However, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has stated that no serious adverse events were reported among the trial participants, and it has not been confirmed that the 93 patients were in actual danger. The potential for undue influence will likely be a central issue during the confirmation hearing.
Han also commented on the recent resignation of Yong Hye-in, the nominee for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, calling it a "sacrifice" to save Kim’s candidacy. He warned that if Kim Seung-won’s appointment is pushed through, it could lead to the downfall of the Lee Jae-myung administration.
Regarding the issue of returning to the People Power Party, Han avoided a direct answer, stating, "What is needed for conservatism is not just fighting but winning. I hope rational and sensible lawmakers will join the fight."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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