Governor Park Wansu of Gyeongnam: "With Fundamentals and Basics, Let’s Leap Forward with Strength"

"If we join forces, we can make 2026 a year of powerful leaps forward."

Governor Park Wansu of Gyeongnam Province delivered his New Year's address at the 2026 Gyeongnam Province New Year's Meeting, held on January 5 at the Changwon Convention Center (CECO) Convention Hall, and made this statement.

Governor Park Wansu of Gyeongnam Province is delivering a New Year's address at the 2026 Gyeongnam Province New Year's Meeting. Photo by Lee Seryung

Governor Park reflected, "Last year, we suffered significant damage from the Sancheong wildfire and the heaviest rainfall in 200 years, but with the united strength and efforts of 3.3 million residents, we overcame these challenges wisely and turned crisis into opportunity."

He also listed last year's achievements, stating, "Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) ranked first among non-capital regions, the trade balance recorded a surplus for 38 consecutive months, the employment rate reached an all-time high, and population shifted from net outflow to net inflow."

He continued, "Now, Gyeongnam has truly established itself as a leading local government in the region," and added, "I believe these accomplishments were made possible by the residents and leaders of Gyeongnam. Shouldn't we give ourselves a round of applause?" encouraging applause from the audience.

Governor Park emphasized, "There were difficult times when the economy stagnated and the provincial administration lost momentum, but with the passionate unity and efforts of our residents, we overcame those times and created a new Gyeongnam," and added, "Now, Gyeongnam must never go back to the past."

He went on to say, "In 2026, Gyeongnam needs to achieve continuous growth so that other local governments cannot catch up, and it will be a year of vigorous resurgence based on the foundations of the past."

At the 2026 Gyeongnam Province New Year's Reception, a performance related to North Korea is taking place. Photo by Lee Seryung

He also presented the phrase 'Gwigeundeukji' (歸根得旨) and expressed his resolutions and aspirations as governor for the year.

Governor Park explained, "'Gwigeundeukji' means that everything has its fundamentals, principles, and roots, and if we return to the basics, we can achieve and realize our goals. I believe that if the leaders of Gyeongnam and Korea return to the basics and their duties, the country will stand upright and the region will develop."

He added, "As I have always done, I will fulfill my responsibilities and duties as governor this year and make it a year focused on fundamentals," pledging, "I will take the lead and work diligently for Gyeongnam and its residents."

He also said, "In every field-administration, population, economy, and welfare-we are making progress and will continue to do so. This year, I ask that we unite our efforts so that Gyeongnam stands out and people say, 'Gyeongnam does things differently.'"

The 2026 Gyeongnam Province New Year's Meeting is being held based on the provincial administration slogan "Gyeongnam 2026 of Coexistence and Growth, Hope Jump! Happiness Jump!" Photo by Lee Seryung

The Gyeongnam Province New Year's Meeting on this day featured performances by the Gyeongnam Little Singers, New Year's addresses and congratulatory speeches, New Year's greetings, toasts, and a performance related to North Korea.

Additionally, the 2026 provincial administration slogan, "Gyeongnam in 2026 of Coexistence and Growth, Hopeful Jump! Happy Jump!" was presented.

The new slogan reflects the intention to accelerate tangible changes for residents, based on the judgment that the province has laid the groundwork for economic resurgence after a period of difficulties caused by the stagnation of key industries, and to raise both hope and happiness together.

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