Park Hong-ryul, Mayor of Mokpo, "Mokpo Maritime University Must Be in Mokpo"

Results of the 'Future Survival Strategy' Contest in Universities: Majority Vote for 'Integration Plan with Incheon National University'

Preservation of Mokpo Requested for Cooperation and Development Between Local Universities and Communities

Park Hong-ryul, Mayor of Mokpo City, expressed deep concerns regarding the integration plan between the Korea Maritime and Ocean University and Incheon National University.

This statement follows the results of an internal policy hearing on the theme of ‘University Future Survival Strategy,’ held three times since the 31st of last month by Korea Maritime and Ocean University, where the ‘integration plan with Incheon National University’ emerged as the majority option with 44% support.

Park Hong-ryul, Mayor of Mokpo [Photo by Mokpo City]

In his statement, Mayor Park said, “Korea Maritime and Ocean University started in 1952 as the provincial Mokpo Merchant Marine High School and has grown alongside the maritime city of Mokpo, becoming a source of pride and honor for Mokpo.” He added, “If the integration with Incheon National University proceeds as per the policy proposal, it would inflict a significant wound on the history of Mokpo City and the pride of its citizens. On behalf of the 220,000 citizens of Mokpo, I cannot help but express my concerns.”

He continued, “The difficulty in attracting students due to low birth rates and a declining school-age population is a common issue for regional universities. At times like this, regional universities should unite to find breakthroughs and move forward together with their local communities. Mokpo City hopes for the continued presence of Korea Maritime and Ocean University in Mokpo,” he emphasized.

He further requested, “Please take sufficient time to create a forum for public discussion, seek solutions to the challenges faced by the university and the local community, and gather opinions from various social groups to ensure mutual growth and development.” He added, “We will work together so that Korea Maritime and Ocean University can grow into a university recognized worldwide and lead the local community.”