Seoyonggyu, Gwangju City Council Member: "Is the Women and Family Foundation Committee Exclusively for Women?"

Gender Imbalance and Unfair Payment of Meeting Allowances Pointed Out

Seoyonggyu, Gwangju City Council Member

Concerns have been raised regarding the operation of various committees, essential bodies that deliberate, advise, and coordinate on major policies and initiatives in Gwangju City.

On the 5th, Seo Yong-gyu, a member of the Gwangju City Council (Democratic Party, proportional representation), pointed out the gender imbalance in the composition of certain committees and the improper payment of attendance allowances during the administrative audit of the Gwangju Women and Family Foundation.

Councilor Seo criticized, “The Framework Act on Gender Equality and the Ordinance on the Composition and Operation of Gwangju City Committees stipulate that ‘appointed members of a specific gender should not exceed six-tenths,’ yet among the 32 committees of the Women and Family Foundation, 25 committees, or 78%, are composed solely of women.”

He continued, “Committees are bodies that deliberate, advise, and discuss various policies and initiatives, so the excessive reflection of opinions from one gender or the exclusion of perspectives from the other gender should be avoided,” adding, “Improvement measures must be prepared to maximize balance and efficiency.”

Councilor Seo also demanded correction regarding the improper payment of attendance allowances to committee members.

He stated, “Public funds should not be treated as blind money. Budget execution must be cautious,” and emphasized, “If there are any errors related to allowance payments, they must be rectified immediately.”