[6.3 Election] Kang Seonghwi, Democratic Party Mokpo Mayoral Candidate, Criticizes Suncheon National University for Ignoring Agreement

Medical School Debate Intensifies in South Jeolla
"Decisions Must Be Made According to Principles"

Kang Seonghwi, the Democratic Party candidate for Mayor of Mokpo, strongly criticized the position of Suncheon National University regarding the ongoing debate over the establishment of a national medical school in South Jeolla Province.

Kang Seong-hwi, Democratic Party candidate for Mayor of Mokpo. Photo provided by candidate's campaign.

On April 22, Kang stated in an official statement, "While Suncheon National University claims the debate over the location of the medical school should be moved beyond, it continues to ignore the already agreed-upon criteria." He added, "This is nothing more than an argument that delays decision-making rather than solving the issue."

Previously, Suncheon National University had proposed a dual-track educational system for the establishment of the medical school, along with the creation of university hospitals in both the eastern and western regions, urging the government to make a decisive move.

In response, Kang emphasized, "The key issue is not about introducing new proposals, but whether or not the existing agreement is honored."

Referring to the university integration agreement signed in November 2024, he explained, "Clause 5 of the agreement explicitly states that priority for medical school enrollment quotas will be given to universities that meet the established requirements." He further noted, "This is the only agreed-upon standard between the two universities."

He continued, "Introducing additional conditions such as the dual-track model is, in effect, no different from overturning the agreement." He criticized, "Ignoring the rules that have already been set and attempting to rewrite the terms is not a responsible attitude."

Kang also addressed Suncheon National University's proposal for a dual-track educational system, stating, "While it may be discussed in the long term, it cannot be a valid reason to delay the current decision on establishing the medical school." He stressed, "For the new medical school, speed and execution are essential."

He further pointed out, "If the agreement itself is undermined simply because inter-university discussions are difficult, it will only lead to greater confusion." He added, "Trying to return to square one when decision criteria already exist is an act of deceiving the residents of the province."

Kang stated, "The establishment of a national medical school in South Jeolla Province has been a long-cherished wish of the residents for over 30 years." He continued, "We can no longer turn a blind eye to the reality of people suffering due to the lack of medical care."

In conclusion, he emphasized, "Agreements are meant to be respected, and criteria should only be applied to those who meet them. A prompt decision must be made in accordance with the agreement."

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