Declaration of a New Era for Honam as a Sustainable Megacity
Gwangju AI, Jeonbuk Finance, Jeonnam Medical School Establishment
Fostering Hubs for Renewable Energy and Agri-Bio Industries
Democratic Party presidential primary candidate Lee Jaemyung is speaking during his visit to the Saemangeum33 Center in Jeonbuk on the morning of the 24th. Photo by Yonhap News
Democratic Party presidential primary candidate Lee Jaemyung announced a set of pledges centered on "economic revitalization of the Honam region" ahead of the regional primary in Honam on the 24th. Lee stated, "I will build a sustainable megacity where AI, energy, and agri-bio industries grow together," and added, "I will usher in a new era for Honam."
Lee emphasized, "Honam is the sacred ground of democracy and has preserved its agri-bio roots even during industrialization. However, it is losing vitality due to unbalanced development. I will turn Honam's frustration into economic revival."
Specific pledges include: expanding the Gwangju National AI Computing Center; establishing a financial ecosystem in Jeonju; converting Yeosu into a hub for eco-friendly chemical industries; fostering Naju as a center for new energy industries; and making Saemangeum and Shinan hubs for renewable energy, such as offshore wind power.
The plans also include establishing national medical schools in Jeonnam and Jeonbuk to train public healthcare professionals, as well as supporting Jeonju's bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. In addition, Lee promised to develop Gwangju as an Asian content hub, create a tourism belt connecting the southwest coast and inland areas, and expand the Honam region's transportation network.
Regarding the relocation of the Gwangju military airport, Lee stated, "We will support the mutual development of the relocation area based on sufficient consultation."
Han Byungdo, chief of the general situation room, met with reporters after the announcement and said, "Honam is the sacred ground of democracy, and since it has been marginalized for a long time, the Lee Jaemyung administration will make every effort to overcome discrimination." He explained, "Just as the National Pension Service Fund Management Headquarters is located in Jeonbuk, we can promote regional specialization by attracting additional pension-related institutions, such as the Teachers' Pension."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
