Changwon Mayoral Candidate Kim Seokki: "The Primary Is the Beginning of Integration, Toward True Unity"

Kim Seok-ki, a preliminary candidate for the People Power Party in Changwon Special City, Gyeongnam, held a final press conference before the primary election and pledged "integrative leadership."

On April 1, at the city hall press center, Kim stated, "The primary election is not the end but the beginning of integration," and promised, "I will move beyond conflict towards harmony, and aim for true integration."

He reflected, "I approached this primary election with a greater sense of urgency than anyone else," and added, "I continuously contemplated what is needed for the future of Changwon and what vision I should present to the citizens, working tirelessly and visiting the field without rest."

However, he expressed his regret, saying, "It is very unfortunate that a policy debate could not be held, depriving citizens of a sufficient opportunity for scrutiny." He added, "I believe every part of the process also reflects the will of the citizens and the decision of the party."

Kim Seokgi, the preliminary candidate for the People Power Party in the Changwon Special City mayoral race in Gyeongnam, is holding a final press conference before the primary election. Photo by Lee Seryeong

Kim emphasized, "Although more than 15 years have passed since the launch of Unified Changwon, I keenly realized during this primary that many citizens still do not fully feel that 'we are one.' We must go beyond merging administrative districts and truly unite the hearts of our citizens."

He continued, "The history and culture of democracy in Masan, the industrialization and growth of Changwon, and the naval base and marine assets of Jinhae are not separate but are all precious sources of pride that make up Changwon. I will turn these differences into strengths, not conflicts, and move forward together under the bigger name of 'One Changwon.'"

Kim also revealed a plan to "preserve the NC Dinos as a symbol of Changwon and further cultivate them as a source of civic pride."

Additionally, he pledged to "develop Jinhae into a leading tourist city in Korea by connecting its naval base, marine, and modern cultural assets, and advance Changwon as a hub for artificial intelligence, digital advanced manufacturing, and defense industries—enabling Masan, Changwon, and Jinhae to leap forward as an integrated city blending industry, logistics, and tourism."

He further stated, "True integration begins not with words but with authority and responsibility. I will allocate more budgets and authority to district offices and establish a quasi-autonomous district administration where local communities make decisions and take responsibility themselves."

Kim concluded, "I will restore the honor of Changwon and create a city where children can say, 'I am proud to be a citizen of Changwon.' I will continue to listen more humbly, reflect more deeply, and work with greater responsibility by the side of our citizens."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.