Gwacheon Mayor opposes Ministry of Justice relocation to Sejong

Gwacheon Mayor Shin Kye-yong has called for a complete reconsideration of the South Korean government's plan to relocate the Ministry of Justice to Sejong City. During a press conference, Shin criticized the move as a unilateral decision made without sufficient consultation with the city or its residents.

While stating that the city does not oppose the national direction of balanced regional development, Shin emphasized that the relocation could significantly impact Gwacheon's administrative functions and long-term urban development. He proposed a ‘confirm replacement agency first, then relocate’ principle, demanding that if the move proceeds, a central administrative body or equivalent national core institution must be designated to maintain the city's self-sufficiency.

Gwacheon City is also demanding transparency regarding research conducted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety concerning the future use of the Gwacheon Government Complex and its vacant land. The city seeks the establishment of an official consultative body between the government and Gwacheon to ensure local voices are included in decisions affecting the city's structure and residential environment.