Local Power Shift in Bongha Village and Gimhae City: Hong Taeyong of People Power Party Defeats Incumbent from Democratic Party

Hong Taeyong, the elected mayor of Gimhae, Gyeongnam from the People Power Party, sharing his thoughts.

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Lee Seryeong] Hong Taeyong, the People Power Party candidate, defeated the incumbent mayor in the June nationwide local elections and was elected as the mayor of Gimhae, Gyeongnam. Gimhae is home to Bongha Village, where the late former President Roh Moo-hyun's residence and tomb are located.

Mayor-elect Hong said, "The citizens' strong desire for change was the driving force behind the election results," and expressed his gratitude, saying, "I wholeheartedly thank everyone for this great choice."

He shared his aspirations, saying, "Half of me is joyful, and the other half feels a heavy responsibility," and added, "I will solemnly heed the mandate to create a new Gimhae."

He stated, "Even citizens who did not support me are Gimhae citizens whom I must serve and respect," and promised, "As a passionate communication leader, I will prioritize communication and unity as my first tasks and become a mayor for all citizens."

Hong pledged to prioritize the creation of a 4 million-pyeong smart logistics complex as a hub for the Northeast Asian logistics industry, the establishment of Gimhae Public Medical Center, and the installation of a metropolitan railway network and eco-friendly trams as his key campaign promises.

He also said he would focus on projects such as the Bieumsan Tunnel and addressing the deficit issues of the light rail transit system to advance Gimhae's development by 50 years.

Mayor-elect Hong emphasized, "By always communicating, I will avoid falling into the quagmire of arrogance and complacency, and will not lose my sense of balance by leaning to one side," and added, "I will prove that the citizens' choice, who gave me this precious opportunity, was not wrong."

Regarding candidate Heo Seonggon, he said, "Although fierce exchanges took place due to the nature of the election, I believe the ultimate goal for both sides was the development of Gimhae and the happiness of its citizens," and earnestly requested, "I sincerely ask that the bitterness be let go and that support and encouragement be given."

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