Hwang Seon-hee, chairwoman of the Gwangju City Council, declared on September 3 that she cannot support the housing supply at the horse racing park without citizen consent.
During a press conference held at the Gwangju Citizens' Hall clock tower, Hwang expressed her complete refusal to cooperate with the government's unilateral housing supply policy.
Hwang strongly opposed the government's push for housing supply around the Gwangju Horse Racing Park, stating that she would not cooperate with policies implemented without citizen consent and community consultation.
At the event, Hwang emphasized, "I will fully boycott cooperation with the government's unilateral housing supply policy and firmly oppose the housing supply plan at the Gwangju Horse Racing Park."
She further criticized, "Gwangju is already managing a significant housing supply due to large-scale development projects. To impose additional housing supply without the consent of the citizens and the city of Gwangju is a complete disregard for the citizens."
Hwang pointed out that the development around the Gwangju Horse Racing Park is not merely about increasing housing numbers but must also consider the overall urban conditions, including transportation, education, environment, and living infrastructure.
At the press conference, Gwangju Mayor Shin Gye-yong and 33 citizen representatives opposing the relocation of the horse racing park were present.
The citizen representatives expressed their opposition to the relocation of the Gwangju Horse Racing Park and the unilateral development plans based on that relocation.
They collectively stated, "The government should prioritize the living environment and local characteristics of Gwangju citizens over merely pursuing housing supply goals."
Attendees urged the government to reconsider its policies, warning that proceeding with projects without sufficient citizen input and consultation could exacerbate local conflicts.
Hwang, along with Mayor Shin and the 33 citizen representatives, participated in a symbolic gesture to confirm their opposition to the relocation of the horse racing park and their intent to withdraw support for the government's unilateral housing supply policy.
Additionally, Hwang made it clear that she would continue to respond to the government's housing supply policies based on the opinions of the citizens.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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