Winner of the '2025 Local Autonomy Legislative Award'
Elevating the Dignity of Local Politics Through Field-Oriented Legislation
Choi Taerim, a member of the Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial Assembly (Uiseong, People Power Party), has been awarded the '2025 Local Autonomy Legislative Award' hosted by the Korea Central Voters Association.
Choi Taerim, Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial Assembly Member (Uiseong County)
The award ceremony was held on the 28th at the National Assembly Members' Office Building in Seoul. Assemblyman Choi received this honor in recognition of his dedication to improving the quality of life for residents and advancing local autonomy.
The 'Local Autonomy Legislative Award' is a prestigious honor given to local assembly members nationwide, based on a rigorous evaluation of their legislative activities from the perspective of voters. It serves as an opportunity to verify both the accountability and practical effectiveness of local councils.
Currently serving in the 12th Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial Assembly, Assemblyman Choi has led the way in enacting practical, everyday policies across welfare, healthcare, and industry as the chair of the Administrative Health and Welfare Committee during the first half of the term.
He sponsored the 'Gyeongsangbuk-do Ordinance on Establishing an AI Ethics-Based Framework,' laying the institutional foundation to prevent potential social side effects arising from the rapid spread of AI technology and to safeguard the human rights and safety of residents.
In addition, through the complete amendment of the 'Gyeongsangbuk-do Ordinance on Supporting the Revitalization of Agro-Industrial Complexes,' he established the legal basis for supporting the recovery from wildfire damage and for assisting aging agro-industrial complexes, thereby enhancing the resilience and sustainability of local industries.
Notably, at the 356th provincial government inquiry session, he highlighted the lack of evacuation systems for the elderly and the absence of cultural heritage restoration measures during large-scale wildfires, urging the provincial government to respond responsibly.
He has also consistently spoken out to ensure the steady progress of key regional projects, such as the simultaneous opening of the cargo terminal at Uiseong for the Daegu-Gyeongbuk Integrated New Airport, demonstrating his commitment as a hands-on, field-oriented policymaker.
In his acceptance speech, Assemblyman Choi stated, "As a servant to the residents, I simply did what I was supposed to do. I am grateful and honored to receive this meaningful award directly from the voters." He added, "This award does not belong to me alone, but is the result of the collective efforts of my fellow assembly members and all residents who have worked together for the development of Gyeongsangbuk-do and the happiness of its people."
He went on to say, "I will continue to listen to the voices of the people without losing my original intention, and will seek answers in the field to create a 'Gyeongsangbuk-do where residents are happy' through my legislative work."
Assemblyman Choi presents a practical model of everyday policy and responsible politics, guided by the philosophy that 'politics is realized in the field, and policy is completed among the people.' This award is seen as more than just a recognition of achievement; it is regarded as a model example of exemplary legislative service that has elevated the dignity of local autonomy by working closely with residents.
Award recipients are taking a commemorative photo at the 'Voter Policy Proposal' and '2025 Local Autonomy Legislative Awards' ceremony.
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