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At 8 a.m. on the 15th, in a restaurant in Ssangam-dong, Gwangsan District, Gwangju. When Park Byungkyu, mayor of Gwangsan District, opened the door and entered, the heads of the Environment and Greenery Bureau teams were already seated inside. Without any need for guidance, everyone naturally found their places. Steaming bowls of seolleongtang were placed on the table, and the familiar aroma of broth filled the restaurant.

Park Byungkyu, mayor of Gwangsan District, is showing an empty bowl after finishing a 'Harmonious Sincere Communication' breakfast with the heads of the Environment and Greenery Bureau teams at a seolleongtang restaurant in Cheomdan 2 District, Gwangsan, on the morning of the 15th. Photo by Song Bohyun

'Harmonious Sincere Communication with the Mayor,' which Gwangsan District operates every Tuesday and Thursday, is an event where the mayor and mid-level managers share a meal at a local restaurant and discuss district administration and organizational culture. Instead of a meeting room, there was a dining table, and instead of reports, everyday language was exchanged. Although it was an informal meal, every word carried the warmth of the field.

During the gathering, participants calmly shared their experiences and the atmosphere of the field. Mayor Park listened quietly without interrupting, occasionally nodding in response. Rather than any special words, his attitude of attentive listening set the tone for the meeting.

Park Byungkyu, mayor of Gwangsan District, is conversing with the heads of the Environmental Greenery Bureau teams at the "Hwamokhan Jinsim Communication" event held on the morning of the 15th at a Seolleongtang restaurant in Cheomdan 2 District. Photo by Song Bohyun

A restaurant staff member said, "Business has been very tough these days," and added, "Just having you visit in person, share a meal, and show interest gives us strength."

Mayor Park said, "It may be a small attempt, but creating the right atmosphere is important," and added, "I believe that sharing a meal together can be the starting point of administration. It is necessary to directly hear from the team leaders who are responsible for the front lines of district administration and to share responsibility together."