Jinju City Council Member Choi Ming-guk Proposes Establishment of Specialized Research Institute for Future Industry Development

"Establishment of a Specialized Research Institute in Jinju for the Aerospace, Aviation, and Defense Sectors Needed"

Choi Min-guk, a member of the Jinju City Council in Gyeongnam, proposed on the 13th during the 254th 1st plenary session to promote the establishment of a specialized research institute for fostering future industries in Jinju City.

He pointed out the need for an institution that can present the future direction of the region to respond to challenges currently faced by Jinju City, such as low birth rates and the transition to digital and carbon neutrality.

Jinju City Council Member Choi Ming-guk.

On that day, Councilor Choi said, "According to the 2022 research data from the Korea Research Institute for Human Settlements, Jinju City is classified as a high-risk vulnerable area in three sectors: industry, buildings, and transportation," adding, "Various companies that find it difficult to transition to new industries are experiencing hardships."

Councilor Choi mentioned cases where other local governments have already established and operated specialized research institutes and the efforts to establish the Aerospace Defense Science and Technology Institute at Gyeongsang National University, arguing, "If a specialized research institute in this field continuously supports aerospace industry research, Jinju City can sufficiently leap forward as a future global aerospace industry hub."

Across the country, many specialized research institutes tailored to local characteristics have been established and operated, such as the Ginseng and Herbal Medicine Research Institute in Geumsan County, the Metal Materials Industry Promotion Institute in Pohang City, the Plasma Industry Technology Institute in Cheorwon County, and the Taekkyeon Research Institute in Chungju City.

Furthermore, Councilor Choi stated, "The establishment of a specialized research institute is not only effective for regional economic development but also strengthens industry-academia-research cooperation among local governments, universities, and research institutions, fostering local talent. It is also important for properly preparing the century-long plan of Jinju as an aerospace city."