Kim Du-gwan: "There is a problem with semiconductor departments concentrating in the Seoul metropolitan area" Won Hee-ryong: "We will also train manpower in non-metropolitan areas"

Full Meeting of the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee on the 1st

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] On the 1st, at the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee plenary session, Kim Du-kwan, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, asked Won Hee-ryong, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, “Presidents of local universities are raising objections to the Ministry of Education about establishing semiconductor departments in the Seoul metropolitan area,” and questioned, “Local universities already have sufficient foundations, so is there a reason to expand departments in the metropolitan area? Is there a will for national balanced development?”

In response, Minister Won said, “I believe a national-level strategic policy is necessary to cultivate semiconductor talent both in the metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas,” and added, “We will ensure that core industries can be located in non-metropolitan areas as well.”

Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong is delivering opening remarks at the 1st Emergency Economic Ministers' Meeting held at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 19th. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

Rep. Kim emphasized, “Semiconductors are a representative field among advanced industries,” and stated, “There is an urgent request regarding the shortage of high-level basic semiconductor personnel. The government cannot delay this matter.” He particularly stressed, “We must not worsen the concentration in the metropolitan area; both metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas should be cultivated together.”

Rep. Kim also inquired, “Since you served as the Governor of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, I expect you have a high level of understanding regarding decentralization and balanced development,” and asked, “How is the roadmap related to Gadeok New Airport being promoted?”

Minister Won replied, “The 2030 Expo Busan bid and the supporting 2029 Gadeokdo New Airport are national projects promoted by the entire government,” and said, “Decisions have already been made, and we will provide maximum support for the specific procedural processes.”

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