Hapcheon County to Initiate Public Discussion on Ilhae Park Naming

Public Opinion Gathering and Commissioning of Professional Agencies for Public Discussion

Hapcheon County in Gyeongnam announced on the 17th that it will promote a public discussion to gather public opinion regarding the name of Ilhae Park, following the recommendations of the Hapcheon County Naming Committee.

In response to the recurring annual controversy over the name of Ilhae Park, the county is proceeding with a public discussion by commissioning a professional organization to gather the opinions of residents, in accordance with the recommendations of the Hapcheon County Naming Committee.

Exterior view of Hamcheon County Office.

First, the county will recruit members for the Public Discussion Promotion Committee regarding the name of Ilhae Park until the 31st of this month. The committee will consist of 10 to 15 members each for maintaining the current name, changing the name, and remaining neutral. Applicants must have their address registered in Hapcheon County as of the announcement date.

However, for the neutral position, individuals who either have an address in Hapcheon County or whose registered domicile is in Hapcheon County are eligible to apply.

To apply, applicants must fill out the application form available on the county website and submit it along with documents proving eligibility to the Planning and Budget Officer at Hapcheon County Office via email, mail, or in person.

The Public Discussion Promotion Committee is scheduled to operate from August to September, during which it will conduct in-depth interviews (FGI), propose opinions for the discussion, and hold debates.

A county official stated, "As the controversy over the name of Ilhae Park has continued for 17 years, we aim to accurately reflect the will of the residents," adding, "We hope that many residents will actively participate in the public discussion process."

Meanwhile, the county plans to form the Public Discussion Promotion Committee within this month, conduct in-depth interviews, and hold the Public Discussion Committee meeting in August.