Ongjin County Council urges rapid completion of Baengnyeong Airport feasibility study

The Ongjin County Council has adopted a resolution condemning delays in the construction of Baengnyeong Airport, calling on the South Korean government to expedite the project and ensure early commencement.

The project, which passed a preliminary feasibility study in December 2022, is currently undergoing a re-evaluation due to a significant increase in total costs. Following an upgrade in the airport's classification, the estimated budget rose from approximately 201.8 billion won to 3.913 trillion won. This re-evaluation, which began in November 2024, has faced multiple delays, with the results now expected by the end of this year.

Council members expressed concern that these delays could push the original 2030 opening target to 2033 or later. They emphasized that the airport is a critical infrastructure project necessary for ensuring the mobility and medical accessibility of residents in the West Sea five islands, particularly Baengnyeong Island. Currently, residents rely heavily on passenger ships, which are frequently suspended due to adverse weather, complicating emergency medical transport.

The council has urged the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to finalize the feasibility study within the year and immediately proceed with subsequent administrative steps, including the establishment of basic plans and securing necessary budgets.