The Democratic Party held a meeting with the government on October 26 to discuss the mega growth strategy, reaffirming its commitment to the development of the 'Five Extremes and Three Specials' and the success of the 'Super Wide Area Special Zone Act' through the active use of unused university land.
The party's Mega Growth Special Committee convened in the National Assembly that afternoon to engage with government departments on issues related to state-led growth stemming from the Five Extremes and Three Specials and the Super Wide Area Special Zone Act.
Before the meeting began, floor leader Han Byeong-do stated that universities should not be isolated islands in urban areas but should serve as growth engines for their regions.
"Many universities resemble islands in urban settings. While they teach and conduct research within their walls, their influence does not extend to businesses and jobs outside those walls," he emphasized. "The unused land at universities is nearly seven times the size of Yeouido, and approximately 46% of the 15 trillion won in private university reserves is expected to be used in ten years."
Kwon Chil-seung, chair of the policy committee, explained that the country must move away from a structure centered on the capital region and promote organic growth in local areas for nationwide development.
"For a long time, South Korea has followed a development strategy focused on the capital region, resulting in a solidified structure of capital-centered growth," Kwon added. "This approach has clear limitations. Regions must achieve national development through advancements in industry, economy, culture, and education."
Government officials also responded by committing to continuous cooperation and close communication with the special committee to achieve balanced national growth.
Park Dong-il, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated, "We will report the progress to the special committee through systematic policy management. Moving forward, we will ensure that the special committee and the government communicate effectively to achieve tangible results for balanced national growth."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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