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| Kim Gi-seo, a member of the Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Council, announced his bid for Buyeo County mayor with a resolute expression during a press conference at the Buyeo County Office briefing room on February 10. (Photo by Kim Ki-tae) |
On February 10, Kim Gi-seo, an independent member of the Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Council, officially declared his candidacy for Buyeo County mayor in the upcoming 9th nationwide local elections scheduled for June 3. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Buyeo County Office.
Kim explained his decision, stating, “While engaging with local businesses and residents who face daily struggles, I recognized an urgent need for innovative solutions to our current challenges. After extensive discussions with community members, I’ve decided to run for mayor.”
During his eight-year tenure as a provincial council member, Kim has achieved notable successes. He highlighted his work on the Agricultural, Fisheries, and Maritime Committee, where he drafted an ordinance supporting freshwater supply for greenhouses affected by salt accumulation. This ordinance gained national recognition for its excellence. Additionally, he emphasized his role in the adoption of the Buyeo-Gongju cucumber cultivation model as a Rural Development Administration project, underscoring his commitment to practical agricultural policies.
As chair of the Construction and Fire Safety Committee in the 12th Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Council, Kim listed several key accomplishments. These include increasing local company participation in public projects, enhancing transportation infrastructure, advocating for the expansion of Provincial Road 625, initiating the New Geumgang Bridge construction, completing the Chungnam Fire Complex, and introducing firefighting helicopters to the region.
Addressing Buyeo’s development, Kim noted, “We’ve made significant progress in establishing physical infrastructure. Now, we must focus on boosting our competitiveness through content and programs – the software aspect.” He outlined four strategic visions: ▲ Attracting 7 million annual visitors ▲ Developing tourism that integrates sports, history, and culture ▲ Implementing a century-long agricultural strategy for the Goodtrae brand ▲ Creating a community-driven energy self-sufficiency model.
When questioned about his political affiliations, Kim discussed his relationship with the Democratic Party. He expressed interest in rejoining the party but explained, “I faced numerous unjust situations and was compelled to leave due to circumstances that violated my principles.” Kim indicated he would soon make an official statement on this matter, sparking curiosity about his future political moves.
Addressing recent personal allegations, Kim asserted, “All claims, including alleged violations of the Political Funds Act, document forgery, business obstruction, and defamation, have been dismissed without charges.” He firmly stated, “I will take robust legal action against any spread of false information regarding my candidacy.”
Buyeo = Reporter Kim Ki-tae kkt0520@
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