On the 9th, the Gangwon Democratic Research Institute—an affiliate of the Democratic Party’s Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province chapter—delivered a policy proposal for the Gangwon region to preliminary candidate for governor Woo Sang-ho.
The handover took place in the party’s conference room. Participants introduced themselves, officials offered opening remarks, researchers reported on the drafting process, and the institute formally presented the proposal.
The institute organized three research divisions: Future Innovation and Growth & Regional Balanced Development; Peace, Security and Social Safety; and Education, Welfare and Quality of Life. The proposal draws on brainstorming sessions held last October with eight local committees and the regional policy vision forums conducted this February.
Kim added, “We will fully support candidate Woo in realizing President Lee’s promise that ‘special sacrifices deserve special compensation.’”
Candidate Woo said, “I consider these policy recommendations to be homework. I will continue in-depth discussions with you and translate them into concrete policies.” He said he will use the proposals to shape an overall development strategy for Gangwon, tackle the specific issues facing each of the 18 cities and counties, visit the field to hear residents directly, and aim to consolidate the pledges into a policy-vision presentation around April.
He emphasized that residents of Gangwon currently endure disadvantages in education, healthcare and transportation because of where they live, and vowed to radically improve living conditions.
Attendees included Kim Do-gyun, chair of the Gangwon Provincial Party; Ha Young-jae, director of the Gangwon Democratic Research Institute; and former institute directors Lee Ki-won (1st term) and Lee Jae-wook (2nd term). Representing Woo’s campaign, preliminary candidate Woo Sang-ho attended with Kim Dong-young, head of the policy headquarters, and policy special adviser Won Gu-hyeon.
