30 Years of Local Autonomy: Opening of 'Jachibunwon University Songpa Campus'

Enhancing Understanding of Local Autonomy to Drive Regional Development

[Asia Economy Reporter Jong-il Park] Songpa-gu (Mayor Park Seong-su) is launching the 'Autonomy and Decentralization University Online Campus' to nurture local leaders in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the revival of local autonomy and the advent of the Local Autonomy 2.0 era.

The Autonomy and Decentralization University is one of the key projects of the 'Council of Local Governments for Autonomy and Decentralization,' established in solidarity by local governments to realize autonomy and decentralization together with citizens. Mayor Park Seong-su currently serves as the Secretary-General of the council.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the revival of local autonomy in South Korea. In January 2022, the Local Autonomy Act, which was fully revised for the first time in 32 years since the comprehensive amendment in 1988, came into full effect. The new Local Autonomy Act is significant as it lays the fundamental groundwork for realizing true grassroots democracy where residents are the owners.

The special education program prepared this time is themed 'The History of Korean Local Autonomy and Future Challenges.'

Songpa-gu expects this lecture to foster residents' consensus and interest in autonomy and decentralization and to serve as valuable nourishment in preparing for the full-fledged era of autonomy and decentralization.

Anyone interested in autonomy and decentralization can apply for this free lecture. Considering the COVID-19 situation, it will be conducted online and can be accessed via a YouTube link without separate membership registration or program installation.

Certificates of completion will be issued to those who score an average of 60 or above on the midterm and final exams, and outstanding students will be automatically registered as candidates for the Autonomy and Decentralization Award, providing an opportunity to win.

The course runs for six weeks from May 24 to July 2, with three lectures per week, each about 20 minutes long, totaling 18 lectures.

Applications for enrollment are accepted from April 26 to May 14. Applicants can download the application form from the Songpa-gu Office website and submit it in person or via email (yhj1125@songpa.go.kr).

Mayor Park Seong-su stated, “For healthy and genuine realization of autonomy and decentralization, it is important not only for public officials but also for residents to participate voluntarily and cultivate leaders who can proactively lead the local community.” He added, “Through this Songpa Campus lecture, I hope residents will develop greater interest in local autonomy, which will become a driving force for regional development.”

Detailed schedules and recruitment information are available on the Songpa-gu Office website.