Criticizing the Eighth Administration for Fostering Division
Focusing on Solving Youth Outflow and Local Economic Crisis
Kim Jinho, former chairman of Nonsan City Council, running as the Democratic Party candidate for Nonsan mayor in next year's local elections Photo by Lee Byungryul
Kim Jin-ho, former chairman of the Nonsan City Council from the Democratic Party of Korea, has officially announced his candidacy for Nonsan mayor in next year's local elections.
In an interview with Asia Economy on August 2, Kim stated his determination to resolve conflicts and promote regional development in Nonsan, drawing on his 12 years of experience as a city council member and chairman.
Kim explained his reason for running for mayor, saying, "During the 8th popularly elected administration, I witnessed conflicts being fueled between political camps, generations, and social classes, and I could no longer stand by. Nonsan needs politics of integration that can unite the city again."
Regarding the current city administration, he emphasized, "More than 1 trillion won in budget is being executed, but basic administrative principles are being undermined, such as preferential contracts being concentrated on specific companies. I will restore trust through transparent and fair administration."
He identified the construction of the KDI bomb factory in Yangchon-myeon as the most urgent issue, stating, "If elected mayor, I will first meet directly with residents to engage in dialogue and take the lead in finding solutions at the city level."
Kim also criticized the change in the Nonsan city brand, saying, "Switching the 'YESmin' brand, which is closely tied to citizens' identity, to 'Army Sergeant' without sufficient public discussion was a hasty administrative decision."
Kim Jinho, former chairman of Nonsan City Council, running as the Democratic Party candidate for Nonsan mayor in next year's local elections / Photo by Lee Byungryul
Kim is acutely aware of the problem of declining youth population.
He noted, "The population has decreased by about 9,000 over the past three years, with a particularly noticeable outflow among young people. I promise to make Nonsan a city that young people return to by providing practical support measures such as supplying 300 rental housing units for newlyweds and reducing monthly rent for families with newborns."
Regarding revitalizing the local economy, he stressed, "I will expand consumer coupons and provide local currency for preferential contracts so that funds circulate within the region. The administration must actively support self-employed people and small business owners who are facing the threat of closure."
He expressed confidence, saying, "Having been born and raised in Nonsan and served in the city council for 12 years, I know the local issues better than anyone. I will always stand by the citizens with 'three principles politics'?original intention, sincerity, and diligence."
On the issue of integrating Daejeon and Chungnam, Kim stated, "This is not a matter that should be pursued solely based on the will of a few politicians. I oppose integration without residents' input; sufficient discussion and consent must be prerequisites."
Kim Jin-ho, a native of Nonsan, has served three terms as a city council member and as council chairman, and is considered a strong Democratic Party candidate for Nonsan mayor.
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