Raising Issues of Resident Participation, Direction, and Feasibility
Suntae Kim, a member of the Chungnam Provincial Assembly (Cheonan, Democratic Party of Korea), has expressed the view that a cautious approach is needed regarding the ongoing Daejeon·Chungnam administrative integration.
At the 360th extraordinary session held on July 15, Kim emphasized during a 5-minute free speech, "The Daejeon·Chungnam administrative integration requires a cautious approach, and there must be no neglect in ensuring direct participation from residents." He stressed that the integration should be pursued in a way that reflects the opinions of the residents.
In particular, he raised issues with the administrative integration discussions being led by Chungnam Governor Taeheum Kim and Daejeon Mayor Jangwoo Lee. Kim stated that three aspects need to be reconsidered: the proper direction, the feasibility of achieving integration, and the guarantee of direct resident participation.
He argued that the administrative integration discussion should not be limited to a superficial integration confined within a centralized framework. Instead, he suggested that, referencing the Swiss federal model, constitutional amendments should first be made to grant Chungnam and other metropolitan local governments autonomy at a level comparable to independent states.
Kim also questioned the possibility of achieving integration within Governor Kim's remaining term. He pointed out, "From the initiation of integration discussions (with just over a year left in the term) to the enactment of relevant laws, a significant amount of time and complex procedures are required," adding, "Rushing the process will only increase confusion." He continued, "Decisions as critical as administrative integration, which directly affect residents' lives, must be made by directly asking the residents through a referendum and following their decision. Integration without residents' consent cannot secure legitimacy and may become a source of even greater conflict in the future."
He further stated, "True local administration for Chungnam's future lies not in fragmented administrative integration, but in strengthening self-governance through constitutional amendments and expanding resident participation." He urged, "Based on the genuine realization of resident autonomy, we must listen to the voices of the residents to find the true direction for local governance development, and prioritize a thorough deliberation process over speed."
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