[Chungnam Governor Candidate Interview] Yang Seung-jo "Completion of R&D Cluster, Creation of 1,400 Ventures"

Yang Seung-jo, Democratic Party Candidate

"Please elect someone who works well"
Emphasizing a proven candidate

[Asia Economy Reporters Naju-seok and Oh Ju-yeon] Yang Seung-jo, the incumbent governor of Chungnam and the Democratic Party candidate, cited the designation of ‘Chungnam Innovation City’ in 2020 as a memorable achievement during his four years of provincial administration, emphasizing that "those who have delivered results can deliver results." He expressed his determination to win the election by focusing on his character as a ‘proven candidate, a capable candidate.’

In an interview with Asia Economy on the 26th, Yang stressed that if he receives the voters’ renewed trust in the June 1 local elections, he will complete the ‘Cheonan-Asan KTX Station Area R&D Cluster’ and build Chungnam Seosan Airport to focus on balanced regional development. Seemingly aware of internal party issues, he urged voters to focus on ability and achievements, saying, "This gubernatorial election is about choosing someone who works well and has worked well for Chungnam."

Below is a Q&A with candidate Yang.

- Why are you challenging the Chungnam governorship again?

▲ A capable and experienced governor is needed for uninterrupted development of Chungnam. During the 7th term of the elected administration, we achieved the third largest gross regional product nationwide and the second highest per capita scale, and uncovered and found solutions to long-standing issues and current problems in Chungnam. Now is the time for a perfect resolution and completion.

- How will you approach the remainder of the election?

▲ The 7th term Chungnam provincial administration has proven its achievements. These include ranking second nationwide in exports, first in trade surplus, first place for three consecutive years in the government joint evaluation, and the highest grade for three consecutive years in the Manifesto Implementation Evaluation by the National Governors Association. I will actively promote these achievements made together with the residents and continue to present a new future blueprint for Chungnam based on them.

- What are your main pledges?

▲ It is important to create new growth engines and achieve balanced regional development for Chungnam’s future. I will complete the Cheonan-Asan KTX Station Area R&D Cluster, a core for creating high added value, establishing 200 resident institutions, 830 billion KRW in startup sales, 20 research institutes and companies, and 1,400 venture companies. Additionally, I will build Seosan Airport and directly connect the Seohae Line and Gyeongbu High-Speed Railway to strengthen the competitiveness of Chungnam companies, boost the tourism industry, and revitalize the regional economy.

- The election is difficult due to party issues.

▲ Over time, residents have begun to separate party issues from the local elections. This gubernatorial election is about choosing someone who works well and has worked well for Chungnam. Since residents are well aware of the many achievements of the Yang Seung-jo administration over the past four years, I expect we will overcome difficulties well.