Jeonbuk Provincial Assembly Member Nagi Hak Urges Activation Measures for Areas Surrounding US Military Bases in Gunsan

Published 28 Jul.2021 12:51(KST)

Urgent Measures Needed at Provincial Level to Develop Specialized Regions

Jeonbuk Provincial Council Member Nagi Hak

[Jeonju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Han-ho] Jeonbuk Provincial Council member Na Gi-hak (Gunsan 1) urged Jeonbuk Province to take measures to revitalize the areas surrounding the U.S. military bases in Gunsan City.

On the 28th, during a 5-minute free speech at the 383rd extraordinary session, Councilor Na stated, “Okgu-eup, Okseo-myeon, Soryong-dong, Miseong-dong, Naun 1-dong, Naun 3-dong, Sinpung-dong, and Haesin-dong in Gunsan City?comprising 1 eup, 1 myeon, and 6 dong?are areas granted for use by the U.S. military stationed in Korea for the defense of the Republic of Korea.” He added, “Due to various regulations on development activities for national security reasons, these areas have endured stagnation in regional development and sacrifices, and this remains the case today.”

Councilor Na said, “Although the government claims to have supported the areas surrounding U.S. military bases through continuous support and private investment, residents of Gunsan City do not feel any benefits at all.”

He also pointed out, “According to the comprehensive plan established by Jeonbuk Province, all 20 support projects for areas surrounding U.S. military bases are related only to road projects.”

Therefore, Councilor Na emphasized, “Since the government’s support projects for areas surrounding the bases are in the wrapping-up stage, it is necessary to prepare special measures at the provincial level to develop Gunsan City into a specialized area like Pyeongtaek and Osan.”

Meanwhile, Article 7, Paragraph 1 of the ‘Special Act on Support for Areas Surrounding U.S. Military Bases in Korea’ stipulates that “the mayor or governor shall establish a comprehensive plan as prescribed by Presidential Decree and submit it to the Minister of the Interior and Safety.”