Seongnam Mayor Shin Sang-jin praised the city on September 16, stating, "Seongnam is a leading advanced city in South Korea, centered around Pangyo, with a concentration of advanced industries, talented individuals, and innovative companies."
On the same day, Mayor Shin is set to receive a special contribution award at the '15th Proud Defense Industry Award Ceremony' held at the Seongnam Industrial Complex Management Corporation auditorium.
He is being recognized for his contributions to fostering the defense industry and strengthening the local industrial base by receiving the 'Proud Defense Industry Award Special Contribution Award.'
This award reflects Seongnam's efforts to develop the defense industry as a future growth engine by establishing relevant systems and expanding support for companies and research and development.
Recently, Mayor Shin established the 'Ordinance on the Promotion and Support of the Defense Industry in Seongnam,' creating a systematic foundation to support defense-related companies.
He also plans to form the 'Seongnam Defense Industry Development Council' to identify support projects related to the defense industry and establish a cooperative system among industry, academia, research, government, and military to enhance the competitiveness of the local defense industry.
As part of his commitments during his term, Mayor Shin has proposed supporting the growth of small and venture defense companies and creating a cluster centered around Pangyo, linking advanced industries with the defense sector.
In March, he signed an agreement with LIG Nex1 to develop a defense industry research complex.
Mayor Shin envisions building an industrial base where defense-related companies and talent gather, positioning Seongnam as a new hub for K-defense.
He is also focused on expanding market access for local defense companies.
Last year, he operated a joint exhibition hall for Seongnam companies at 'Seoul ADEX 2025,' promoting local products and technologies to domestic and international audiences while facilitating business consultations and market development.
Residents hope that this award will lead to enhanced capabilities in Seongnam's advanced industries, attracting defense companies and creating jobs.
One resident expressed optimism, saying, "Since many IT and AI companies are concentrated around Pangyo, if this technological strength connects with the defense sector, it could provide new opportunities for local businesses."
Another resident added, "I hope this award leads to actual company attraction, good jobs, and revitalization of the local economy, creating a robust defense ecosystem."
Mayor Shin stated, "I will actively support making Seongnam a new growth hub for South Korea's defense industry by linking our capabilities as an advanced city with the defense sector, enabling local companies to expand into global markets."
He emphasized the importance of listening to the voices of businesses and the community, stating that he would work to enhance Seongnam's defense industry competitiveness and contribute to the development of South Korea's defense sector.
Meanwhile, the Korean Defense Industry Association was established to contribute to the development of national defense and the defense industry through the development of academic materials and the establishment of a technical information system. Since 2012, it has awarded the 'Proud Defense Industry Award' to organizations and individuals who have contributed to the advancement of the defense industry.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.