Changwon defense special zone receives zero budget for 2027

The Changwon National Industrial Complex, recently designated as a national strategic special zone for the defense industry, has received zero budget allocation in the government's 2027 fiscal plan.

During a National Assembly audit, Representative Heo Seong-mu pointed out that the lack of funding for infrastructure, testing, and certification facilities could delay the launch of major projects, such as the advanced aviation engine business scheduled for 2028. The delay in budget allocation was attributed to the fact that the designation of the special zone occurred later than other strategic industries, resulting in Changwon being excluded from the initial demand surveys conducted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.

In response, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy acknowledged that such infrastructure is a public responsibility that private companies cannot handle alone, promising to work actively on the matter.