Gwangju Seogu to Launch "Baro Text Harangke Season 2"

Revitalizing Neighborhood Commercial Districts...
A Direct Communication Platform with the District Mayor

Seogu District in Gwangju (District Mayor Kim Ikang) is set to officially launch "Baro Text Harangke Season 2," a direct communication platform with the district mayor aimed at revitalizing neighborhood commercial districts.

Seogu District Office view. Provided by Seogu District Office

According to Seogu District on July 8, "Baro Text Harangke" is a resident participation administrative model first introduced during the 8th popularly elected term. Through this system, any resident can send a text directly to the district mayor to propose everyday issues or policies, and receive a response within 48 hours.

It has established itself as a symbol of swift, accurate, and friendly administration, raising both trust and satisfaction in local governance.

For Season 2, a new dedicated number has been established under the name "Neighborhood Economy 119 Phone," with a focus on strengthening communication with merchants in neighborhood commercial areas.

Any merchant in the district can send policy suggestions or proposals related to neighborhood commercial districts via text message. The district mayor personally reviews the content and instructs the relevant departments to consider the suggestions, creating a real-time participation system.

In particular, Kim Ikang, Mayor of Seogu District, plans to operate a "Neighborhood Office" by visiting the 18 neighborhood-type shopping areas once or twice a week. During these visits, he will hold neighborhood policy meetings to directly listen to major issues raised via text and seek solutions on-site. Those who make suggestions can also participate in these meetings to engage in Q&A sessions.

Seogu District expects that the "Neighborhood Economy 119 Phone" will go beyond simply receiving civil complaints and serve as a starting point for a practical policy ecosystem where residents' ideas drive administration and change the flow of neighborhood commerce.

Kim Ikang, Mayor of Seogu District, stated, "Baro Text Harangke Season 2 is Seogu's unique resident participation brand that creates a virtuous cycle of on-site engagement, communication, and policy," adding, "We will continue to shift the focus of administration to the neighborhoods and pursue field-oriented governance where residents directly propose and complete policies."