Busan: President Lee Jae Myung visited Busan on Friday and pledged to swiftly relocate the oceans ministry to the southeastern port city.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries from the central city of Sejong was one of Lee's campaign pledges. "I will swiftly execute the relocation of state organs, including the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, to Busan, as much as is possible," Lee said during a townhall meeting held at Pukyong University, adding he is not sure the ministry relocation will be possible before the end of the year.
Lee emphasized that achieving balanced development across regions is a "national survival strategy" that requires consideration of each region's characteristics. He noted that climate change has increased the potential of Arctic shipping lanes, which could benefit Busan significantly. "If we do not prepare in advance, we will lose the opportunity," he stated.
During his visit, Lee also called for discussions on measures to develop Busan into a Northeast Asian hub city.