Jeon Tae-jin, the Democratic Party candidate for Ulsan's Nam-gu Gap district, has identified industrial transformation and youth employment as key issues.
He stated, "I will innovate Ulsan's manufacturing competitiveness with AI and digital technology to create a city where young people can dream of the future," emphasizing, "I will engage in politics that brings budgets and results, not conflict."
Jeon is the first candidate recruited by the Democratic Party ahead of the upcoming by-election. With 20 years of experience as a lawyer, he has served as an advisor to central government ministries and public institutions, earning a reputation as a practical expert in industry, administration, and law.
In an interview with Aju Economy, Jeon remarked, "The aging of Ulsan's industries and the outflow of young people are urgent challenges that affect the region's future," adding, "It is essential to combine AI and digital technology with existing shipbuilding, automotive, and petrochemical industries for a smart industrial transition."
He proposed the establishment of an 'Ulsan AI Valley' as a key pledge. Jeon plans to create a research and startup hub linked to UNIST and Ulsan University on the site of the Okdong military base, stating, "We will build an AI demonstration base that can be immediately applied in industrial fields to elevate Ulsan's manufacturing competitiveness."
He further emphasized, "I will ensure that young people can find good jobs and new opportunities in Ulsan," vowing to transform the industrial capital of Ulsan into a future-oriented industrial structure.
Jeon also presented promises to improve transportation infrastructure. He stated, "We will dramatically enhance the transportation network, including the underground expressway on Munsu Road, to improve commuting conditions and living environments," explaining, "I will create a city where young people want to stay, enjoying both job opportunities and quality of life."
He highlighted his strengths in collaborating with the ruling party and his practical experience. Jeon said, "What Ulsan Nam-gu Gap needs now is not politics that fights against the Lee Jae-myung government, but politics that cooperates to secure budgets and deliver results."
Addressing concerns about his lack of political experience, he countered, "Being a political newcomer is actually a strength." Jeon explained, "I can focus solely on resolving Ulsan's issues without getting caught up in existing political rhetoric or divisive conflicts," asserting, "While I will gain political experience, I am confident in my urgency and ability to drive Ulsan's development more than anyone else."
He noted that the most common request from residents during his campaign is for economic recovery. Jeon said, "Citizens often express, 'We are tired of politics that just fights,' and 'Please revive Ulsan's economy.'" He emphasized, "Ultimately, what citizens want is not political slogans but politics that addresses their livelihoods."
One particular comment from a small business owner resonated with him. Jeon recalled, "I heard, 'Political news comes out every day, but our store's situation isn't improving. Please revive the economy instead of fighting.'" He stated, "That one remark encapsulated the reality and urgency of the citizens."
He stressed, "We now need politics that creates results for the economy, people's livelihoods, and Ulsan's future, rather than politics that fights."
Finally, Jeon presented tailored pledges for different generations to garner support. He said, "For young people, I will create future jobs through the Ulsan AI Valley, and for parents raising children, I will directly bring in childcare and education infrastructure through central budgets."
He added, "For middle-aged individuals enduring the industrial transition, I will advocate for job retraining and support for industrial transition, and for the elderly, I will demonstrate that only candidates from the ruling party can bring in central welfare budgets."
Jeon concluded, "What Ulsan needs now is not politics that fights, but politics that brings in budgets and support," asserting, "I will create 'Ulsan Again,' not 'Yoon Again.' I will prove it through results, not words."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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