The People Power Party said on the 26th it plans to propose a special act on Daegu–North Gyeongsang administrative integration in February–March.
The People Power Party and North Gyeongsang Province held a Daegu–North Gyeongsang integration meeting at the National Assembly Members' Office Building that afternoon, gathering a range of opinions from local lawmakers and discussing ways to cooperate with the National Assembly. The meeting was attended by North Gyeongsang Governor Lee Cheol-woo, People Power Party North Gyeongsang Provincial Party Chairperson Gu Ja-geun, lawmakers from the North Gyeongsang region, and senior provincial officials.
It was reported that, except for some lawmakers from northern North Gyeongsang, most agreed on the broad framework of integration. Some lawmakers raised concerns about marginalization of the northern area, but the prevailing view was that the purpose of integration should be upheld for balanced development. It was even reported that the dominant mood was to move forward preemptively with integration.
Gu, the People Power Party North Gyeongsang Provincial Party Chairperson, said, "Administrative integration is an important matter concerning the future of Daegu and North Gyeongsang, and amid weakening growth engines and concentration in the greater Seoul area, integration is already a trend of the times," adding, "Because it will bring major changes to residents' lives, timing and speed are crucial, so we will scrutinize the process and represent the region's voice."
After the meeting, Gu told reporters, "Most opinions favored Daegu–North Gyeongsang integration in broad terms," and said, "The central government is pushing a local-led grand shift, and with various economic incentives being offered, there was consensus that we should take the lead and move quickly."
Regarding the timing of proposing the special act, Gu explained, "After the North Gyeongsang Provincial Council votes, it appears the procedure to gather residents' opinions will take place around February," adding, "The key is to introduce the bill as soon as possible in February or March."