Yoo Jeong-bok, chairperson of the Korea Mayors and Governors Association (Incheon mayor), said on the 13th that "a constitutional amendment for decentralization is necessary." He noted that the structure should gradually transfer authority from the central government to local governments, allowing each region to harness its potential.
During a New Year's press conference held by the Korea Mayors and Governors Association at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, Yoo noted, "The powerful presidential authority has led to political instability." The association plans to gather opinions from the 17 cities and provinces nationwide and prepare a draft for a decentralization-based constitutional amendment next month to be reflected in the National Assembly's constitutional discussion process.
Yoo stated, "Our country is immersed in a central government-centric mindset," and emphasized, "We must mature democracy through decentralization." He added, "If proper local autonomy is established, efficient government operations will improve the lives of local residents."
Yoo also remarked, "In this critical time, the role of local governments is crucial for recovering the people's livelihoods," and suggested, "We should support small business owners and self-employed individuals who are suffering due to consumption contraction by promptly preparing a supplementary budget."