Noh Hyung-wook on GTX-D Controversy Missing Gangnam Connection: "We Will Find a Rational Solution"

Nomhyunguk Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Nominee Confirmation Hearing

Nominee for Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Noh Hyung-wook, is attending the confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly on the 4th and delivering an opening statement. Photo by Dongju Yoon doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Jiwon] Roh Hyung-wook, the nominee for Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, said regarding the reduction of the 수도권광역급행철도 (GTX)-D line to the 'Gimpo~Bucheon' section, which has caused backlash from residents of Gimpo and Incheon Geomdan, "If given the opportunity to serve as minister, I will strive to find a reasonable solution."

At the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee confirmation hearing, Roh responded this way to a question from Kim Hee-guk, a member of the People Power Party, who asked, "Why was a plan that is mocked as the 'Gimbuseon' released without considering the residents' opinions?"

He explained, "It seems there were several criteria when preparing the draft plan. Following some criteria led to a plan that did not meet the residents' expectations. I am aware of the many opinions in the region, and since the transportation issues in the northwest are serious, I will look at this comprehensively."

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Transport Institute recently unveiled a plan connecting Gimpo Janggi to Bucheon Sports Complex for the GTX-D line. Gyeonggi Province requested a 68 km line from Gimpo passing through Gangnam to Hanam, and Incheon City demanded a 110 km 'Y'-shaped line with Incheon Airport and Gimpo as terminals, but none of these were accepted.

In response, Gimpo residents strongly protested by holding vehicle demonstrations around Gimpo City Hall last weekend. About 50 condolence wreaths with messages such as "Risking our lives to commute," "Killed Gimpo and Geomdan," and "Two-car hell train" were also displayed at the main gate of Gimpo City Hall.

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