Kang Gijeong and Lee Yongseop Show 'Temperature Difference' Over Attracting Complex Shopping Mall

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Jin-hyung] Kang Ki-jung and Lee Yong-seop, preliminary candidates for mayor of Gwangju Metropolitan City from the Democratic Party of Korea, showed differing stances on attracting a complex shopping mall during their first TV debate.

Candidate Kang emphasized "active promotion," while candidate Lee focused on "coexistence with small business owners."

They both attended the first TV debate held in the afternoon, hosted by KBS Gwangju.

Candidate Kang, who spoke first, explained, "Attracting a complex shopping mall is an issue that Gwangju must address," adding, "It is a space that creates entertainment beyond simple product purchases, so it is appropriate to establish it in the city center."

He continued, "I met with executives from two major corporations related to shopping malls, and they have made many demands and shown strong will," and declared, "If I become the mayoral candidate, I will successfully attract and develop the complex shopping mall."

Candidate Kang also stated, "Measures for self-employed business owners are important in this process. We will operate a two-track approach combining shopping mall attraction and self-employed business measures," adding, "We will create a comprehensive organization like the Alleyway Commercial District Promotion Agency to collaborate."

Candidate Lee also expressed strong agreement with the idea of attracting a complex shopping mall but set "coexistence with small business owners" as a prerequisite.

Candidate Lee explained, "I have been considering attracting a shopping mall since August last year, before it became a major issue in the presidential election," emphasizing, "I have a principle that we must coexist with small business owners."

He added, "Small business owners and self-employed in Gwangju are different from those in other cities. They have shared history. During the May 18 Democratic Uprising, the ladies of Yangdong Market made rice balls and provided them to the citizen army, and by selling traditional market goods and educating others, they have been protecting Gwangju."

Therefore, he declared, "Under no circumstances should large shopping malls that destroy small business owners be allowed," and stated, "The Great Transition Promotion Committee established in the city is gathering opinions from various sectors, and after returning in July, we will listen to citizens' opinions and make a decision."