Seoul Metropolitan Council faces political disputes and new oversight rules

The Seoul Metropolitan Council is facing internal friction and implementing new transparency measures. The People Power Party has criticized Democratic Party-led committee chairpersons for stalling two key livelihood resolutions. These resolutions, co-sponsored by 38 People Power Party members, call for housing supply expansion and the development of future transportation networks, including Han River buses and Urban Air Mobility (UAM).

Separately, the Council has passed an amendment to strengthen the management of council members' overseas official activities. The new regulations aim to restore citizen trust by restricting overseas travel within one year of a member's term expiration and requiring the disclosure of permission review reports on the Council's website for public feedback. The amendment also introduces stricter post-activity management, including mandatory audits for illegal activities and protections for staff against improper instructions regarding travel arrangements.