Park Kwan-yeol, the mayor of Gwangju, emphasized on September 9 that the goal is not to obstruct the establishment of the Yongin semiconductor national industrial complex but to collaboratively shape Gwangju's future.
Mayor Park made this statement while urging for the successful advancement of the Yongin semiconductor national industrial complex and the development of practical coexistence measures for Gwangju.
This reflects the need for the success of national strategic industries to align with Gwangju's future development.
The integrated water supply project for the Yongin semiconductor national industrial complex involves the installation of approximately 47 kilometers of water pipelines, with about 27 kilometers passing through Gwangju.
Park stated, "While Gwangju actively cooperates with this national project, it is essential that the government provides support and coexistence measures that correspond to the burdens and sacrifices faced by local residents due to the large-scale pipeline installation."
Key measures requested by Mayor Park include the government-led supply of 30,000 smart public housing units, the establishment of the national industrial complex, research and development in AI and semiconductors, the attraction of advanced companies, the formation of a government-wide coexistence council, and national support for areas affected by the water pipeline.
He added, "Gwangju is ready to actively cooperate for the success of South Korea's semiconductor industry," and stressed the need for practical coexistence plans that allow for the simultaneous growth of industry, businesses, jobs, and housing, rather than solely demanding sacrifices from Gwangju citizens during the implementation of national projects.
Citizens also voiced their desire for tangible development benefits to accompany the success of national projects in Gwangju.
One resident remarked, "If the semiconductor project is necessary on a national level, Gwangju should actively cooperate. However, since Gwangju will bear the burden of large-scale infrastructure, there should be support that residents can feel in terms of businesses and jobs."
Another resident expressed hope that the growth of the Yongin semiconductor industry and the development of Gwangju would progress together.
Meanwhile, Mayor Park stated, "I will continue to negotiate with the government to ensure that Gwangju does not remain merely a transit area or a sacrifice zone, and I will strongly demand necessary measures."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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