Kang Gi-jung, the mayor of Gwangju Metropolitan City, is set to directly communicate with the residents of Jeollanam-do regarding the administrative integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam. Starting on the 29th, Kang will host a ‘Coexistence Talk with Citizens on the Gwangju-Jeonnam Integration’ in Jangseong County, marking the beginning of a series of regional explanatory meetings throughout Jeonnam. These events aim to provide accurate information about the integration, addressing public inquiries and discussing its impact on industries, economy, and transportation, thereby focusing on collaborative discussions between cities and counties within Gwangju and Jeonnam.
The first Coexistence Talk will take place at 3:30 PM on the 29th at the small theater in the Jangseong County Culture and Arts Center. As Jangseong shares the same living zone with Gwangju, the residents’ thoughts and opinions on the integration are of significant interest. During the meeting, attendees will learn about the motivations for the ‘Jeonnam-Gwangju Special City’, its key points, and the anticipated effects of regional integration, alongside the future schedule and procedures involved. Both Kang and Kim Han-jong, the governor of Jangseong County, will respond directly to residents’ questions.
Given that Jangseong already shares its living and economic sphere with Gwangju, potential for joint development is expected to expand significantly if the administrative integration occurs. Following Jangseong, Gwangju plans to continue the Coexistence Talks in other cities, including Yeosu on the 30th and Yeonggwang County on February 5th. Insights and various opinions from these sessions will be seriously considered in the integration process.
Mayor Kang emphasized that the Gwangju-Jeonnam integration is not just about administrative unification but a strategic choice aimed at national balanced development and mutual prosperity. He expressed his intention to genuinely communicate with the cities and counties of Jeonnam through these talks to foster social consensus on the integration initiative.