Councilor Jinho Jang of Nonsan City Council claimed on the 22nd that the failure of the additional KDI investment was a "political failure triggered by the provocative remarks of a specific politician."
Nonsan City's strategy to foster the defense industry has suffered a significant setback due to the failure of additional investment by the defense company Korea Defense Industry (KDI).
On December 22, council members of Nonsan City issued a statement asserting, "This issue is not an administrative failure, but a clear political failure triggered by the provocative remarks of a specific politician."
They pointed out, "While some political circles are shifting the blame for the failed investment onto the administration, in reality, repeated opposition and conflicts surrounding the company, as well as provocative remarks and actions by politicians, have fundamentally undermined investment stability."
They especially criticized, "We must question whether it is truly the attitude of a responsible politician to incite public anxiety by labeling it a 'bomb factory'-a provocative term-while disregarding scientific verification and institutional procedures."
They went on to state, "In the face of political calculations and electoral interests, Nonsan's industries and jobs have been pushed aside," adding, "It was inevitable for the company to judge that it would be difficult to continue stable operations in this city under such circumstances."
The council members emphasized, "The consequences are being borne entirely by citizens and young people, not by the administration or the company," and criticized, "Nevertheless, no one has taken responsibility, and there has been nothing but irresponsible silence."
They also expressed concern that the failed investment could negatively impact the achievements of Konyang University's Defense Leading University program, increase uncertainty about the future for local youth, and adversely affect Nonsan's overall mid- to long-term industrial strategies, including the creation of the National Defense Industrial Complex.
The council members urged, "To protect the future industries and jobs of Nonsan, what is needed is responsible politics, not agitation and political strife," calling for a fundamental change in attitude among politicians.
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