In a televised debate ahead of the June 3 local elections, Gyeongnam Governor candidates Kim Kyung-soo of the Democratic Party, Park Wan-soo of the People Power Party, and Jeon Hee-young of the Progressive Party outlined their visions for the region's development while also engaging in negative campaigning over military service and hiring favoritism allegations.
The candidates participated in the debate held at Gyeongnam MBC on May 22, emphasizing the need for cooperation with the central government, consistent policies, and the dismantling of factional politics to garner support.
Kim stated, "The current crisis cannot be overcome by Gyeongnam alone. We must work together with the central government," challenging Park by asking, "How can a governor who fights against the central government overcome a crisis?"
Park responded, "I was born and raised in Gyeongnam and know it better than anyone. I have worked solely for the residents of Gyeongnam. Currently, Gyeongnam leads in all economic, population, and living indicators."
Jeon added, "Labor rights must be guaranteed, and the rights to life and survival must be protected. I will end the era of impoverished residents. Gyeongnam needs new figures for new politics."
When asked how they would share benefits from the Jinhae New Port and the Gadeok New Airport with Busan, the candidates provided differing responses. Jeon emphasized the need for careful examination of whether these projects would genuinely improve residents' lives, citing the climate crisis and marine ecosystem as critical issues.
Park outlined his vision for maximizing Gyeongnam's development, which includes expanding transportation infrastructure, increasing industrial institutions, broadening free economic zones to attract businesses, and fostering international business.
Kim asserted, "The new port should be developed into a core of high-value-added logistics integrated with manufacturing, which also requires cooperation with the central government."
In response to another common question about securing stable water resources, all three candidates agreed on the need to improve the Nakdong River's water quality.
The debate saw intense exchanges, particularly between Kim and Park. Park criticized Kim for the 'Druking incident,' stating, "As a result of stepping down during his term, Gyeongnam's economic growth rate fell to the lowest. His pledge fulfillment rate is also the lowest."
In defense, Kim countered, "I facilitated the exemption of the KTX preliminary feasibility study, passed the special law for Gadeok New Airport, advanced the national project for smart industrial complexes, and established the current defense industry framework. During your term, the delinquency rate of corporate loans tripled, and industrial household income ranked 15th out of 17 cities and provinces."
Park then raised concerns about Kim's alleged increase in assets amounting to approximately 1.1 billion won during his imprisonment and questioned his military service. Kim responded, "That property was inherited after my father-in-law's passing, and the military service issue was handled according to regulations."
Kim also challenged Park regarding allegations of hiring favoritism involving his nephew during his tenure as CEO of Incheon International Airport. He noted that the Board of Audit and Inspection stated there was 'reasonable suspicion' regarding Park's involvement in hiring during his time as mayor of Changwon and as Gyeongnam governor.
In response, Park maintained, "All hiring was conducted through legal and proper procedures, and investigations concluded there were no issues."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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