On May 27, Lee Jaemyung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated regarding the relocation of HMM to Busan, "The promise I made during my campaign in Busan still stands and will continue to be kept in the future."
That afternoon, Lee wrote on Facebook, "The relocation of HMM to Busan is not simply a change of location. By moving closer to Busan Port, an international shipping hub, it will bring about real changes such as implementing field-oriented management and enhancing the company's competitiveness."
Recently, the People Power Party criticized Lee for allegedly breaking his promise after the pledge to relocate HMM to Busan was omitted from the list of regional pledges announced on his official website. In response, Lee personally reaffirmed his commitment to the relocation, putting an end to the controversy.
Lee emphasized, "HMM is a private company, but it is a subsidiary of a public enterprise owned by the people. If the people want it, relocating to Busan is entirely possible. I will actively communicate with all members and pursue this in a way that benefits everyone."
He added, "If the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, which oversees maritime policy, is based in Busan, policy implementation will become more efficient, and the synergy with the concentrated maritime industry will also increase. I will ensure the relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and related public institutions, as well as the establishment of a maritime court in Busan, proceed without any setbacks."
Lee stated, "I, Lee Jaemyung, do not make promises with words alone. I have always proven myself through action and results. I will make Busan the true center of a leading maritime nation and develop it as a new growth hub in preparation for the era of Arctic shipping routes."
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