Gwangju City Council: "Let's Have a Head-to-Head Debate on Urban Planning Ordinance"

Counterproposal for Public Debate Involving Mayor Kang Gijung
Conflict Over Raising Residential Floor Area Ratio in Central Commercial Areas

A view of Gwangju City Council.

Recently, as conflict has arisen between Gwangju City and the city council over the 'Urban Planning Ordinance Amendment'?which mainly involves raising the residential floor area ratio in central commercial areas of Gwangju?the Gwangju City Council proposed a public debate to Mayor Kang Gijung on the 19th.

The Industrial and Construction Committee of the Gwangju City Council stated in a press release that day, "Gwangju City has previously proposed a public debate to the council regarding the 'Urban Planning Ordinance Amendment,'" adding, "We actively accept the city's proposal for a public debate and suggest that Mayor Kang Gijung participate in the discussion."

Previously, Mayor Kang boycotted the plenary session in protest of the council's handling of the ordinance and criticized the council for 'neglecting their duties.'

The city council emphasized, "Let us dispel concerns from some quarters about this being a wasteful power struggle through a public debate," and added, "We hope to open a constructive forum that discusses not only the amendment of the residential floor area ratio in central commercial areas, but also the overall urban planning and future of Gwangju."

The council also stated, "We will continue to engage in discussions and communication to improve citizens' lives and address urban issues."

Regarding the council's proposal for a public debate with the mayor's participation, a Gwangju City official said, "Since the city initially proposed the public debate, we welcome it," but added, "However, whether the mayor will participate has not yet been decided."

Park Pilsun, Chair of the Industrial and Construction Committee of the Gwangju City Council, said, "It would be good if the mayor attends the debate, but even if he does not participate, the debate will proceed," adding, "The specific schedule will be determined through discussions with city hall in the future."