Yang Seungjo: "We Must Resolve Social Polarization, Low Birth Rates, Aging Population, and Regional Decline"

"Inclusive Growth Is More Important Than Growth Monopolized by a Select Few"
Book Concert Held at Joongbu University in Geumsan, Chungnam

Yang Seungjo, Former Governor of Chungnam Province (Photo by Mo Seokbong)

Yang Seungjo, former Governor of Chungnam Province, stated, "It is most important that the value of growth is not monopolized by a select few, but that inclusive growth ensures benefits are distributed evenly down to the lowest levels of society."

At a book concert held on November 8 at Joongbu University in Chubu-myeon, Geumsan County, Chungnam, Yang said, "Issues such as low birth rates, an aging population, and social polarization can only lead to a sustainable society where we live together if policies are based on 'social consensus' and have the empathy of the majority."

On this day, Yang hosted a publication ceremony and book concert for his book, "Chungnam Where Everyone Prospers Together," and expressed a strong determination to run again for Governor of Chungnam in next year's local elections.

Yang was accompanied by his wife, Nam Yunja, and the event was attended by over 300 people, including Moon Jeongwoo, former Mayor of Geumsan County, former and current local council members, Jeong Seokwan, former President of Chungnam Development Corporation, and Lee Wonyoung, Secretary General of the Damjaengi Forum.

The book concert was moderated by Professor Jang Cheolsun, with Professor Lee Gyuhwan of Konyang University and Dr. Jeong Yunseon of the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade participating as panelists, who engaged in an in-depth discussion of Yang's political philosophy.

Yang emphasized, "Severe social polarization, low birth rates, an aging population, and the risk of regional extinction are pressing challenges and the future that South Korea must address."

He added, "Economic growth alone cannot be called true national development, and if the hopes and quality of life of each citizen are not guaranteed, no achievement will have real meaning."

In conclusion, he said, "All members of society must clearly recognize the inherent crises we face, and we must actively resolve them through national compromise and social determination."

He further stressed, "Through these efforts, we must establish a leading model for 'Chungnam where everyone prospers together,' and further, a 'world where everyone prospers together,' so that we can pass on a proud Republic of Korea to future generations."