Gyeongsangnam-do Governor pushes for Busan-Ulsan administrative integration

Gyeongsangnam-do Governor Park Wan-soo marked the 100th day of his ninth popularly elected term by emphasizing the need for administrative integration between Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam-do. While acknowledging differing views among regional leaders regarding the structure of this integration, Park expressed readiness to proceed with formal procedures if the mayors of Busan and Ulsan initiate them.

Park also addressed concerns regarding weakening local finances. He noted that the rise of government-led projects requiring local matching funds is reducing the autonomy of local governments. He pledged to advocate for increased local tax revenues and local allocation taxes to the central government and National Assembly, while committing to minimizing the issuance of local government bonds.

For the upcoming term, the Governor outlined a vision for industrial transformation, focusing on new sectors such as Small Modular Reactors (SMR), aviation engines, and AI-driven welfare platforms. Key goals include expanding the 'G-transportation network' to connect the province within 30 to 60 minutes and utilizing AI to build a more robust social safety net.