Pohang Mayor Lee Gangdeok: "I Will Do Everything Possible to Protect the Steel Industry and Revitalize the Local Economy"

On September 10, Lee Gangdeok, mayor of Pohang, held a briefing at the city hall to explain the achievements of his recent visits to the United States and Europe, stating that he will make every effort to protect Pohang’s steel industry and revitalize the local economy.

Lee Gangdeok, mayor of Pohang, explained the achievements of his visits to the United States and Europe earlier this month at a briefing room in the city hall on the 10th, stating that he will make every effort to revive Pohang's steel industry and local economy. Photo by Pohang City

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Mayor Lee visited Washington, D.C. on September 1 and 2, where he conducted a campaign urging a reduction in steel tariffs. He reported that he was able to build local and national consensus on the reality that Pohang’s steel industry is suffering severe damage due to the US government’s imposition of high tariffs, including a 50% rate.

He expressed special gratitude to the Korean American Association of Virginia and the local Korean community for actively participating in the campaign, saying, “I deeply appreciate your understanding of Pohang’s urgent situation and your display of patriotism.” He also expressed hope that exchanges and cooperation in the economic and cultural sectors would continue in the future.

Regarding the US midterm elections scheduled for November next year, he mentioned the possibility of tariff adjustments, taking into account voter sentiment and inflation. He stated that the city government also plans to devise steel industry response measures that align with the national interest.

In London, United Kingdom, he signed a memorandum of understanding with the London chapter of the World Federation of Overseas Korean Traders Associations, laying the groundwork for strengthening youth capabilities and expanding business exchanges. He also visited a local redevelopment site to identify concrete models that could be applied to Pohang’s urban regeneration efforts.

In Germany, he attended IFA, the world’s largest electronics and home appliances trade show, where he encouraged the promotional booth of Pohang-based startup Design Noble and discussed participation opportunities for Pohang companies in a meeting with IFA CEO Leif Lindner.

Mayor Lee emphasized, “I will continue to do everything possible to protect the steel industry and revive the local economy.” He added, “I sincerely hope that my efforts, driven by a sense of necessity to take action, will contribute to creating a mutually beneficial trade environment in the international community.”

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