Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate, said on the 27th, "I promised to transfer the HMM headquarters to Busan during the last campaign," and added, "This promise is still valid and will be kept in the future."

Lee Jae-myung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, appeals for support in front of the main entrance of Dankook University, Jukjeon Campus in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province on Oct. 26./Courtesy of News1

The candidate posted on Facebook a message titled "I will transfer HMM to Busan."

He noted, "The transfer of HMM to Busan is not just a simple relocation. It is a significant change that will increase corporate competitiveness by realizing on-site management as we get closer to Busan Port, an international shipping hub." and added, "We will make Busan the center of maritime power without a doubt."

He emphasized, "HMM is a private corporation, but it is a subsidiary of a public enterprise owned by the people. If the people want it, the transfer to Busan is entirely possible. I will actively communicate with the members and pursue it in a manner that allows everyone to coexist."

The candidate also said, "I, Lee Jae-myung, do not make promises lightly. I have always proven myself through action and results," and stated, "I will push ahead with the transfer of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the establishment of a maritime court in Busan without delay."

The candidate mentioned, on the 14th during a campaign in Busan, "I will ensure that HMM, the largest shipping company in Korea, is also moved to Busan," and added, "It is not easy since it is a private company, but it is not impossible if there is government funding support. For now, HMM employees have agreed."

However, regarding the transfer of HMM, the major shareholder public institution has said it has not considered it, and there have been some complaints among HMM employees who oppose the transfer to Busan. Furthermore, it was pointed out that the pledge published on the candidate's official website does not include the transfer of HMM to Busan.

Jo Seung-rae, the chief spokesperson for the Democratic Party of Korea election committee, said, "What candidate Lee Jae-myung promised on-site during the campaign is mentioned in the pledge, including attracting 100 major corporations, so please take a look at that," and explained, "We have plans to push for the transfer of HMM and will go through a close consultation process with the members for the transfer."

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