Name Change of Sinmah Port in Gangjin-gun to 'Gangjin Port'

Considering Resident Surveys, External Recognition, and Symbolism

[Gangjin=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-su] Following the revision of the Port Act Enforcement Decree last month, the name of Shinma Port located in Maryang-myeon, Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do, has been changed to "Gangjin Port."

The place name "Shinma" of Shinma Port comes from the village name in Maryang-myeon where the port is located. Shinma Port is a transportation hub where national highways, provincial roads, and county roads develop in a radial pattern.

Designated as a coastal port in February 1998, construction of Shinma Port began in December 2010, and it was completed in March 2016 with facilities including berthing facilities, breakwaters, and a hinterland area of 16,000㎡.

Local residents have continuously expressed the opinion that the port name should be changed to use the indigenous name "Gangjin" to develop Shinma Port, along with the national fishing port Maryang Port, as a comprehensive hub port for the southwestern coastal region.

Accordingly, the county proposed the name change to "Gangjin Port" to Jeollanam-do, considering residents' surveys, external name recognition, and symbolism, resulting in the name change.

In July last year, a survey on the port name change of Shinma Port was conducted by town and township targeting residents. Among 437 respondents, 270 (61%) agreed to change the port name to Gangjin Port, and based on the public notice for residents' opinions, the name change to Gangjin Port was promoted.

A Gangjin-gun official stated, "Through this port name change, we will be able to enhance the regional image of Gangjin and increase external recognition," adding, "We will thoroughly prepare to prevent confusion among residents and tourists due to the name change."

Gangjin=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-su gabrielw@asiae.co.kr

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