Gijang County, Busan Denies Allegations Over Sports Facility Land Purchases

Gijang County (Governor Jung Jongbok) officially stated on the 25th that recent allegations raised by a media outlet regarding the construction of sports facilities such as tennis courts are completely unfounded and that these are legitimate projects aimed at promoting the health and leisure of county residents.

Previously, on the 24th, a media outlet published a report titled "Suspicious Land Purchase by Gijang County, Tennis Court Next to the Railroad?" The article raised issues regarding the tennis and park golf facilities being developed in the Ilgwang-eup area, including unnecessary land purchases, safety concerns, excessive compensation costs, and suspicions of ties to a particular religious group.

In response, Gijang County emphasized that the report is based solely on the informant's unilateral claims and that all projects are being carried out in accordance with residents' opinions and in compliance with legal procedures.

Regarding the change of the tennis court site, the county explained that "it is not an unnecessary land acquisition, but a measure taken for safety and convenience." A buffer green zone will be established along the section adjacent to the railroad, and some areas will be equipped with shelters and rest spaces to provide a pleasant environment. Additionally, in response to continuous requests from residents, the county is working to designate an urban planning zone in order to expand the initially planned 9-hole Ilgwang-eup park golf course to more than 18 holes.

The county also stated that safety concerns are unfounded. "The installation of sports facilities within the railway protection zone is possible upon consultation with the National Railroad Authority, and there are many similar cases nationwide," the county explained. "In the future, safety fences and protective nets will be installed, making the risk of collision with trains extremely low."

Regarding suspicions of ties to a particular religious group and allegations of excessive compensation, the county firmly denied these as "clear misinformation." Land compensation is determined based on the average of appraisals by two or more certified appraisal firms, making arbitrary adjustments or preferential treatment impossible. The land in question accounts for only 5.2% of the planned park golf course area, so any connection to a specific group is completely ruled out.

A Gijang County official stated, "The construction of tennis and park golf facilities is essential for improving the health and leisure activities of our residents. We will fully reflect residents' opinions and thoroughly consult with relevant agencies to expand a safe and efficient sports infrastructure for daily life."

The park golf course development project is a key pledge of the 8th popularly elected county governor. To meet the growing demand, the county is accelerating efforts to establish park golf courses in all five towns and townships.

Gijang County Office.

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