New Local Governments Launch with Pragmatic Citizen-Focused Policies

Local governments across the nation kicked off their 9th term on July 1st.

Reflecting the global economic slowdown and regional fiscal crises, elaborate inauguration ceremonies were scaled down or omitted, and initiatives for 'regional economic recovery' and 'securing future growth engines' were launched.

Local leaders of the 9th term began their official schedule on the morning of July 1st with visits to national cemeteries and memorial towers. Inauguration budgets were reduced and used for supporting vulnerable populations, or replaced with interactive events engaging directly with residents.

In the Seoul metropolitan area, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon reaffirmed his vision of strengthening global competitiveness and accompanying the vulnerable after visiting the National Cemetery. Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae held a modest inauguration ceremony, reflecting the 7 trillion won fiscal crisis, and expressed his commitment to securing fiscal soundness.