Presiding Over the Final Expanded Executive Meeting of 2025
Reviewing APEC Achievements and Accelerating Post-APEC Initiatives
Emphasizing Strict Discipline for Public Officials During the Year-End
Quoting Yulgok Yi I's "Soje Yokshim" (Sweeping Away Selfish Desires)
Joo Nak-young, Mayor of Gyeongju, presided over the final expanded executive meeting of the year, reviewing the city’s achievements for 2025 and sharing the direction for municipal administration in 2026.
On December 22, Gyeongju City held an expanded executive meeting at the Alcheon Hall of City Hall, attended by bureau, division, and headquarters chiefs as well as heads of departments and local districts, to review major municipal achievements.
The meeting included reports on the successful hosting of the 2025 APEC Summit and the outcomes of municipal administration across all sectors, including administration, welfare, culture, tourism, and agriculture.
In particular, the city reaffirmed its administrative capabilities and policy implementation performance by sharing awards received in various evaluations conducted by central government ministries and Gyeongsangbuk-do, as well as the achievement of securing large-scale national and provincial funding through the selection of more than 60 public projects this year.
The meeting also reviewed the current operation of the park golf courses, which have gained significant popularity among citizens, and discussed plans for additional construction and operational improvements to meet rising demand.
Mayor Joo called for a thorough wrap-up of the year, urging officials to ensure that the final administrative tasks are completed in the field so that citizens can truly feel the impact.
Regarding post-APEC projects, he emphasized, "We must establish an organic system of interdepartmental cooperation so that ongoing projects and secured budgets can proceed without disruption," and stressed the importance of securing budgets and providing administrative support for follow-up forums and related projects.
Mayor Joo also reiterated the need to strengthen disaster and safety management during the year-end and New Year period. He instructed officials to thoroughly secure and inspect snow removal equipment in preparation for heavy snow and cold waves, and to enhance proactive inspections of fire-prone facilities such as traditional markets.
The meeting also included reminders to uphold discipline among public officials during the holiday season.
Quoting the Joseon-era Confucian scholar Yulgok Yi I’s phrase "Soje Yokshim" (sweeping away selfish desires), Mayor Joo cautioned against even minor conveniences or complacency that may arise during work, emphasizing that a public servant’s commitment to the public good is the foundation of citizens’ trust.
Mayor Joo also reviewed the preparations for next year’s major municipal projects. He stressed the need for rapid progress on key initiatives, field-oriented administration, and strengthened interdepartmental cooperation, especially as the post-APEC period marks a new leap forward for Gyeongju.
Mayor Joo Nak-young stated, "2025 was a year in which Gyeongju made significant strides in administrative and urban competitiveness," and added, "In 2026, we must further enhance these achievements so that citizens can truly experience the results." He concluded by urging everyone to fulfill their responsibilities and duties through the end of the year.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
