In the context of increasing concerns regarding regional depopulation, Gwangyang city in Jeollanam-do has caught attention by maintaining a population growth trend for three consecutive years, spurred by a rise in birth rates and the influx of young people. From 2022 onwards, the city’s population has seen a steady increase, with 64% of this growth attributed to young people in their prime working age (27-34 years). As of December 2024, young people accounted for 34.4% of Gwangyang’s population, making it the youngest city in Jeollanam-do.
The city attributes this influx of young residents to a virtuous cycle of regional settlement. By operating tailored youth employment academies in collaboration with companies in the steel and secondary battery sectors, Gwangyang has successfully enhanced employment rates. Additionally, by reducing housing costs through support for mortgage interest and residential expenses for employed youths, the city has effectively attracted more young people.
Continuing its effort to make the city more appealing to young adults, Gwangyang aims to secure 20.0784 billion KRW this year to support policy initiatives that ensure sustainable activities, self-reliance, and stable living conditions for young people. The city is working to identify youth-friendly projects through its Youth Policy Council and aims to turn these into actionable policies via the Youth Policy Coordination Committee.
Furthermore, Gwangyang is focusing on youth workforce development in emerging industries like secondary batteries and is addressing job mismatches through the operation of a smart integrated job-matching platform known as “Good Job Gwangyang.” The city is fostering job skills and retention by linking corporate-specific training with priority hiring of local youth.
In recognition of its efforts, Gwangyang won the communication award at the “2024 Youth-Friendly Legislative Awards” sponsored by the National Assembly Secretariat, marking continued success in the domains of population growth and youth influx. This award also complements its achievement of winning in the job sector from local self-government for ten consecutive years.
Mayor Jeong In-hwa emphasized the city’s commitment to creating an environment where young people can resolve all their needs in Gwangyang by establishing a “tripod” system encompassing quality jobs, housing, and welfare. The goal is to develop Gwangyang as a truly youth-friendly city where every young person can dream and unleash their potential.