China's Virus Research Institute Relocation to Yangsan? Kim Du-gwan Calls It an "Excessive Claim"

Kim Du-gwan, member of the Democratic Party of Korea./Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Ju Cheol-in] Kim Du-gwan, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea (Gyeongnam Yangsan-eul), said on the 22nd regarding the mention of Gyeongnam Yangsan as a candidate site for the Korea-China-Japan Virus Research Institute, "I hope people do not fall for fake news worse than rumors."

On the same day, Kim posted on Facebook, "The story is so trivial that I thought there was no need to clarify and was going to let it pass, but some far-right YouTubers' unreasonable and excessive claims have crossed the line, so I think an explanation is necessary," he said.

He stated, "If we were to develop a COVID-19 treatment or vaccine first in the world, the economic effect would be unimaginable. If an advanced research institute comes to Yangsan, providing good jobs and securing world-class technology, I have no reason to refuse," but added, "Currently, it is just an idea level with no plans or details."

According to local media, the China Overseas Private Cooperation Organization, Zhonghua Overseas Association, proposed building a Korea-China-Japan joint vaccine virus research center in Busan. In response, Kim reportedly counter-proposed the Busan National University Yangsan Campus, located on the border between Busan and Gyeongnam. The Chinese side is also reportedly considering it positively.

Screenshot of Facebook post by Kim Du-kwan, member of the Democratic Party of Korea

Former People Power Party lawmaker Lee Eon-ju linked a related article on Facebook the day before and said, "What is this? They say they will establish a Wuhan Virus Research Institute Yangsan Center," adding, "Considering the chaotic global situation caused by COVID-19, even a decided plan should be canceled, so is it true that they want to set up a branch in Yangsan?" and strongly criticized, "What have the Democratic Party politicians or lawmaker Kim Du-gwan who agreed to this done?"

Kim said, "Even if a detailed proposal for such a research institute comes, the prerequisite is the safety and consent of the citizens," and added, "Moreover, no matter how good the project is, if the citizens oppose it, what reason would a politician like me have to support it? If there are people around worried by such rumors, I ask that you kindly explain it well," dismissing the concerns.