South Korea has launched the Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City, marking the nation's first wide-area administrative integration [1, 2].
This merger reverses a forced separation of Gwangju and Jeonnam implemented 40 years ago under the Chun Doo-hwan regime. By reuniting these regions, officials aim to create a region-led growth model to counter economic centralization in other parts of the country [1].
The new special city ranks third in South Korea for both population and budget, trailing only Seoul and Gyeonggi [1, 2]. The integrated entity boasts a population of approximately 3.2 million people [2] and a budget exceeding 20 trillion won [2].
Min Hyung-bae has assumed the role of the first mayor of the Integrated Special City. The transition involves the adjustment of 30 different decrees and regulations to align the administrative frameworks of the previously separate entities [4].
Min said the goal is for the decision of corporations to lead to the growth of the region [1]. The first mayor has outlined a plan for the initial 100 days of the administration to stabilize the new governance structure [1].
The launch represents a significant shift in local governance, attempting to leverage the combined scale of the two regions to attract investment and improve public services. The integration process was designed to streamline bureaucracy and enhance the competitive edge of the southwestern region [1, 2].
“The new special city ranks third in South Korea for both population and budget.”
The creation of the Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City is a strategic attempt to decentralize power from the Seoul metropolitan area. By consolidating resources and population into a single administrative unit, the region gains significant bargaining power with the central government and creates an economy of scale that is more attractive to private industry.
