South Jeolla Province Strengthens Communication with Provincial Council on Gwangju-South Jeolla Administrative Integration

Explanation of Cheong Wa Dae Luncheon Outcomes
Emphasis on Firm Government Support
Sharing of Special Administrative Integration Law
Resident Hearings to Begin on January 19

On January 13, South Jeolla Province shared the outcomes of the Cheong Wa Dae luncheon, the current status of the Gwangju-South Jeolla administrative integration initiative, plans for gathering feedback from city and provincial residents, and the draft of the special administrative integration law during a meeting between the provincial government and the South Jeolla Provincial Council regarding the Gwangju-South Jeolla administrative integration.

The meeting, held in the Choui Room of the Provincial Council, was attended by Kim Youngrok, Governor of South Jeolla Province; Kim Taegyun, Chairman of the Provincial Council; council members; Kang Wiwon, Deputy Governor for Economic Affairs and head of the Gwangju-South Jeolla Administrative Integration Promotion Planning Group; as well as over 100 directors and department heads.

Governor Kim continued his efforts to communicate with the council by visiting again, following his direct explanation of the direction for promoting the Gwangju-South Jeolla administrative integration at the council's general assembly on January 8.

In particular, he personally explained the results of the Cheong Wa Dae luncheon held on January 9, detailing that the President had promised comprehensive and bold support by making the Gwangju-South Jeolla administrative integration a turning point for the development of the Honam region. He also elaborated on the central government's strong commitment to support in terms of finances, organizational restructuring, and the transfer of authority.

Regarding the collection of public opinion, he stated that a sufficient process of public discussion and deliberation would be conducted through a pan-provincial council, a series of resident hearings across the region, and an online platform.

Following this, Yoon Jinho, Director of Planning and Coordination for South Jeolla Province, explained the key aspects of the administrative integration and the main points of the special law draft.

During the Q&A session, Governor Kim Youngrok responded to questions from the council members, requesting their understanding and cooperation for the integration initiative.

Governor Kim emphasized, "In administrative integration, securing democratic legitimacy is just as important as speed," adding, "We will thoroughly discuss with the Provincial Council and continuously reflect the opinions of city and provincial residents to pursue a grand integration that will write a new chapter in the revival of Gwangju and South Jeolla."

South Jeolla Province explained the matter to the Provincial Council on January 8 and 13, and held an administrative integration promotion council on January 12. On January 16, the launch ceremony for the pan-provincial administrative integration council will be held, and starting January 19, a series of resident hearings will be conducted across 22 cities and counties, continuing efforts to communicate with residents regarding the integration.