Kim Hyun-ki, Chairman of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, Communicates with Seoul City Grade 5 Promotees

Kim Hyun-ki, Chairperson of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, Holds Communication Lecture with 286 Promoted Grade 5 Officials at Seoul Human Resources Development Institute on July 31

Kim Hyun-ki, Chairperson of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, gave a communication lecture to 286 promoted Grade 5 officials at the Seoul Human Resources Development Institute on July 31.

Under the theme "Understanding Local Decentralization," he shared the history of local autonomy and local councils, as well as the legislative direction of the 11th Council, and engaged in open communication with the staff through a Q&A session.

Chairperson Kim explained the background of his lecture, saying, "When I thought about what the Seoul Metropolitan Council means to you, I realized that due to frequent requests for materials, the impression might not be very positive. That is why I felt even more compelled to meet and communicate with you."

He also advised, "Local councils have a proud history as the first to be established during the Korean War, marking a significant chapter in Korea’s local autonomy. While practicing local autonomy, one cannot deny the role of local councils. As the saying goes, if you cannot avoid it, enjoy it?so fully understand the fundamental functions of local councils and use them to your advantage."

Chairperson Kim continued, "Especially since the 11th Council began, I have heard many say that the presence of the council has changed. This is likely because we have shed the stigma of being a 'rubber-stamp council' and approached our two main functions?legislative authority such as ordinances and budget review and approval?with the attitude of being the 'final decision-maker of policies.'"

In particular, Chairperson Kim did not hold back his encouragement and support for the Grade 5 officials who are taking on the roles of Seoul city team leaders and district section chiefs for the first time.

He said, "You are the real pillars and mainstay of Seoul as middle managers. I hope you become proactive and autonomous decision-making team leaders who also care for your staff."

When asked about his motto, Chairperson Kim revealed, "Self-strengthening without rest (自强不息)," meaning to firmly strengthen one’s mind and continuously strive. He added, "I want to continue to demonstrate my capabilities for the development of local autonomy."

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