Governor Kim Taeheum Questions Cheongyang County Chief's Qualifications for Delaying Jicheon Dam

"Even Under Pressure, Responsibilities Must Be Met...
It Is Irresponsible to Hesitate Without a Future Strategy for Water and Electricity"

Kim Taeheum Governor of Chungnam Province

Kim Taeheum, Governor of Chungnam Province, sharply criticized the head of Cheongyang County on August 11 for hesitating over the construction of the Jicheon Dam.

During a meeting with provincial department heads that day, Governor Kim remarked, "To put it nicely, it's a thorough review, but to be honest, it's just looking around to see what others think," adding, "The county chief is dragging his feet as if he's shirking his responsibilities."

He continued, "Even if you are under extreme pressure, you must do what needs to be done. There is significant support for the project, so I have to question whether the county chief is qualified as a public official or a politician if he continues to delay."

He stated, "While it is important to accept reasonable arguments from opponents, decisions should be made based on the advantages and principles. You must not waver. As a politician, you have to make clear decisions."

Governor Kim further said, "In the future, resources will be electricity and water. Data centers and the AI industry are huge consumers of both. How can we expand AI centers without a plan for power supply and water provision? Even if we start now, it will take five to six years. If we want to prepare for the future, we have to start right away."

He added, "Has any province in history ever planned to provide nearly 100 billion won in support from its own budget in addition to national funding? The goal is to solve Chungnam's water shortage and create a future development path for Cheongyang through dam construction. We've done everything possible for Cheongyang's development, including the Forest Resources Research Institute and the park golf course. But now, just because the administration has changed and elections are approaching, are you backing out?"

He concluded, "Even if the county chief cannot do it, if it is for the future, it must be pursued," instructing the Vice Governor to "clearly communicate my position to Cheongyang County."

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