"Now for a Prosperous Gwangju" Kang Gijeong Stresses Second Leap at Book Launch Event

Vision for Grand Integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam and Transformation into an AI-Centered Industrial Hub
Congratulatory Speech by Jeonnam Governor Kim Youngrok and Video Messages from Political Leaders

Gwangju Mayor Kang Gi-jung is speaking on stage at the book launch event held on the 11th. The title of the book launch event was "Gwangju, A More Dramatic Second Appearance Than the First." Through his book, Mayor Kang pointed out that while the spirit of Gwangju contributed to protecting democracy in South Korea and establishing democratic governments, that sacrifice did not lead to the city's prosperity. He also raised the awareness that the pride of Gwangju citizens should now be explained not by the sacrifices in history but by today's life and the city's prosperity. Photo by Song Bohyun

"If Gwangju's first appearance was as a city of democracy, now is the time to prepare for its second appearance as a prosperous city."

On January 11, at his book launch event held at the Kim Daejung Convention Center, Gwangju Mayor Kang Gijeong presented his vision for the "Second Gwangju," outlining plans for the grand integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam and the transformation into an industry-centered city.

Mayor Kang reflected on his 25 years in politics and shared his current thoughts. He emphasized that Gwangju emerged in history as a symbol of democracy through the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement in 1980, but said that the city cannot remain content with that achievement. He proposed the vision of a "prosperous Gwangju and Jeonnam," stating that now is the time for Gwangju and Jeonnam to make another leap forward through integration, focusing on industries such as artificial intelligence, future vehicles, semiconductors, energy, and culture.

Jeonnam Governor Kim Youngrok is speaking on stage at Mayor Kang Gijeong's book launch event held on the 11th. Photo by Song Bohyun

At the event, Jeonnam Governor Kim Youngrok, who delivered a congratulatory speech, referenced President Lee Jaemyung's remark that "a new growth engine for South Korea is beginning in Gwangju and Jeonnam," and stated that the direction for industrial development and the region's future is becoming clearer. He also expressed his determination to achieve tangible results, noting that he and Mayor Kang Gijeong have begun earnest discussions on the integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam.

Video messages of congratulations followed. Former President Moon Jaein, National Assembly Speaker Woo Wonshik, Democratic Party leader Jung Chungrae, Democratic Party lawmaker Park Jiweon, and Cho Kuk, leader of the Cho Kuk Innovation Party, each appeared in turn to congratulate the publication.

Mayor Kang stated, "Gwangju is now preparing for its second appearance by adding a new wing of artificial intelligence to its DNA of democracy," and unveiled his plan to use the growth opportunities that will arise under the Lee Jaemyung administration as a springboard to develop "AI for everyone, and Gwangju as a future city for all."

On the 11th, citizens gathered in the lobby of the event hall where the book launch of Gwangju Mayor Kang Gijeong was held, waiting for the event to begin. Photo by Song Bohyun

The venue inside and outside the book launch event was bustling with citizens throughout the day. Attendees lined up around the photo zone, waiting to take commemorative photos with Mayor Kang. Citizens greeted each other in turn and took photos, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the event.