"Action Over Words": Song Seungjong Announces Bid for Buk-gu Mayor in Gwangju

"I Will Be a Leader, Not Just an Administrator"

Seungjong Song, Vice Chairman of the Policy Committee of the Democratic Party of Korea, is holding a press conference for his candidacy for the Mayor of Buk-gu, Gwangju, at the briefing room of the Gwangju City Council on the 20th.

Song Seungjong, Vice Chairman of the Policy Committee of the Democratic Party of Korea and Chairman of the Gwangju Buk-gu Public Welfare and Economy Research Institute, has officially announced his candidacy for the mayoral election of Buk-gu, Gwangju.

On January 20, Song held a press conference at the Citizens' Communication Office of the Gwangju City Council, declaring, "Buk-gu is a place where the history and democratic spirit of Gwangju are deeply rooted, but it now faces the limitations of a stagnant local economy and a declining population. It is time to bring about change in Buk-gu through action, not just words."

Song emphasized, "Policy is not completed at a desk. I will find answers in the field, keep every promise I make, and take full responsibility for every initiative I start as mayor." He highlighted his more than 30 years of experience in local administration as his key strength.

On this day, Song presented three core tasks: 'Restoring the Local Economy,' 'A Comfortable Buk-gu for Daily Life,' and 'A Future-Ready Buk-gu.'

Specifically, he pledged to revitalize the local economy by boosting neighborhood businesses and traditional markets, and to address residents' inconveniences through practical administration focused on issues such as parking, transportation, and safety. He also unveiled plans to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-based administration and attract future strategic industries to create a Buk-gu where young people choose to stay.

In addition, he laid out a vision that includes a resident participation campaign under the theme "People Are Hope," the creation of a democracy experience space centered around the May 18 National Cemetery, and the development of local festivals that highlight Buk-gu's unique identity.

Song stated, "The mayor is not just an administrator but a person of responsibility. When problems arise, I will be the first to go to the scene and will practice 'honest administration' that is evaluated by the lives of residents."

In the subsequent Q&A session, he added that, regarding measures for restoring livelihoods and addressing youth outflow, "Rather than flashy slogans, I will pursue policies responsibly, focusing on feasibility and priorities."