GTX Speed Emphasis by Kim Makes Private Investment Inevitable vs Yoo Raises Concerns Over Fare Burden and Possible Low Speed
Kim Strengthens Direct Support Instead of Local Currency vs Yoo Maintains Project Ownership Even if Gyeonggi-do Takes Over
Kim Agrees in Principle to Suwon Airport Relocation but Faces Alternative Site Issues vs Yoo Promises to Finalize Relocation Procedures During Term
[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Kim Eun-hye, a member of the People Power Party, and former lawmaker Yoo Seung-min revealed differences in policy views on the GTX private investment attraction, the existence of local currency, and the relocation of Suwon Airport on the 14th. Regarding GTX, Rep. Kim mentioned the necessity of private investment for rapid project progress, but former Rep. Yoo advocated caution about private investment, citing fare burdens. On local currency, Rep. Kim expressed a cautious stance, while former Rep. Yoo supported maintaining it through improvements.
During the People Power Party Gyeonggi Province governor primary debate held through MBC's 100-minute debate on the same day, the two candidates showed differing opinions on real estate supply and deregulation issues across Gyeonggi Province.
Former Rep. Yoo asked about "whether private investment would be attracted" regarding GTX. In response, Rep. Kim said, "We need to see the situation as it unfolds," but argued the inevitability of private investment based on national finances and the need for swift project execution. Former Rep. Yoo said, "If private investment is attracted, fares will become very expensive," adding, "Private investment requires guaranteed profitability. Once a contract is made, it is usually difficult to cancel. To do this properly, national funds must be injected." He also said, "If it overlaps with existing lines, there is a high possibility it will become a slow local train rather than an express train," and added, "Using existing lines is not acceptable."
They also showed differences regarding local currency. When asked about his view on the existence of local currency, Rep. Kim said, "If there is a direct support method in the form of local currency, I would persuade for that direct method," and added, "During former Gyeonggi Governor Lee Jae-myung's tenure, local currency money went elsewhere instead of to you (small business owners). There were many side effects, so I want to review this part." In response, former Rep. Yoo said, "From Gyeonggi Province's standpoint, I think there is no reason to oppose it," and added, "During former Governor Lee's tenure, a poorly managed operating agency like Kona I, which operated local currency, was appointed, and money that should have gone to market merchants and consumers went to the operating agency. This part definitely needs reform." Regarding the operating entity, he said, "Gyeonggi Province should directly manage it so that benefits return to small business owners and self-employed residents, and if the central government provides tax subsidies, I think there are ways to integrate it with Onnuri gift certificates."
Regarding the relocation of Suwon Airport, both candidates agreed on the necessity of relocation, but former Rep. Yoo was more proactive. Rep. Kim said, "In principle, I think relocation is inevitable," but maintained a cautious stance concerning issues like alternative sites.
On the other hand, former Rep. Yoo said, "It is unacceptable for a combat airport to be located in a metropolitan area," and promised, "I will finalize the relocation procedures for Suwon Airfield within my term." Regarding the alternative site for Suwon Airport, he pledged, "The governor will personally take the lead in persuading by presenting a comprehensive package including land compensation, industrial complexes, highways, and jobs."
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