Saemangeum Set to Become a Hub for Advanced Industries, with Support for Transport and Housing Infrastructure... Ministry Launches Task Force

On April 13, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced the launch of the Saemangeum Investment Support Task Force (TF). This dedicated organization was established to support the investment plan for advanced industries such as robotics, hydrogen, and artificial intelligence (AI) in the Saemangeum area, which Hyundai Motor Group had previously announced in February.

The TF will review investment support measures for various sectors, including improving residential and transportation conditions in the Saemangeum area and easing regulations to establish an AI city. The launch ceremony, presided over by Minister Kim Yoon-duk of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, was attended by members of the task force and executives from Hyundai Motor Group.

At the first meeting, the ministry stated that discussions focused on support measures to swiftly resolve difficulties faced by companies on-site, such as regulations and permit processes. Twenty key tasks were discussed, mainly in the areas of land and urban development, transportation, and housing. As a priority, the TF decided to support the design of a robot- and autonomous vehicle-friendly city to establish the Saemangeum AI City. Special provisions will also be introduced to expedite permit procedures.

On February 27, after the investment agreement ceremony for the Saemangeum Robot, Hydrogen, and AI City held at the Saemangeum Convention Center in Gunsan, Jeonbuk, President Jae-myung Lee and Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Jae-sun Chung shook hands after a commemorative photo. Photo by Yonhap News

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Additionally, the TF will ensure the timely opening of infrastructure facilities such as the Saemangeum railway. Efforts will also be made to help establish a hydrogen ecosystem, including hydrogen infrastructure. To support the settlement of corporate employees and others in Saemangeum, the TF will supply rental housing, expand the eligibility for special housing supply, and construct cultural and leisure spaces.

Minister Kim stated, "Hyundai Motor Group's 9 trillion won investment will serve as a turning point for Saemangeum to emerge as a hub for advanced industries such as robotics, hydrogen, and AI. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport will provide robust support to ensure tangible results, aiming to make this a successful case of regional investment."

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's task force plans to finalize detailed support measures by early next month. Tasks that require legal amendments or the establishment of new standards will be expedited, and consultations with Hyundai Motor Group will continue.

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