Busan, South Korea – Busan Metropolitan City, in its relentless pursuit to establish itself as a global hub, convened its first expanded senior officials meeting of 2024. The city is charting a course toward innovative growth and citizen-centric development.
Held on January 29th at the City Hall, the meeting brought together over 60 key city officials to deliberate on strategies for Busan’s transformation into a ‘Global Hub City’. The attendees, including department heads and executives from various public institutions, focused on implementing ‘Realizing Global Hub City Busan’ and ‘Spaces Brimming with Busan’s Unique Character’.
Busan’s 2024 plan is a multifaceted approach targeting five crucial areas: Economic Innovation and Growth, Citizen Safety and Environment, Sustainable and Balanced Development, Culture, Tourism and Welfare, and Citizen Happiness. This comprehensive strategy reflects a balanced approach to urban growth and citizen-centric policies, aiming to revitalize the economy, enhance citizen welfare, and promote cultural richness.
The city has announced extensive policy revisions affecting 59 initiatives across six critical areas, including Economy, Jobs, Youth, Urban and Transport, Health and Welfare, Women, Childbirth, Childcare, Safety, Environment, Hygiene, Culture, Sports, and Tourism. These revisions are tailored to the evolving needs of citizens, with a focus on supporting small businesses, improving living standards, and enhancing public services and infrastructure.
Mayor Park Heong-joon’s vision is encapsulated in his administration’s commitment to proactive change and innovative reforms. His focus on creating a dynamic and adaptable city is evident in initiatives like the Small and Medium Enterprises Comprehensive Support Center, and strategies for innovation in industries such as AI and quantum technology.
Cultural, tourism, and welfare sectors are receiving significant attention in Busan’s 2024 plan. Initiatives include the construction of the new Gadeokdo Airport to boost logistics capabilities, enhancement of public healthcare services, and creating a sustainable, carbon-reduced urban environment.
Busan’s vision as a ‘First to the Future Green Smart City’ is being realized through key projects like the Gadeokdo New Airport, North Port Redevelopment, and the Eco-delta Smart City. These developments aim not only to enhance the quality of life for residents but also to elevate Busan’s global standing.
The 2024 strategy for Busan is a clear demonstration of the city’s dedication to fostering harmonious urban development while prioritizing the welfare of its citizens. The city aspires to evolve into a vibrant, globally acclaimed urban center. Achieving these ambitious goals will hinge on the transparent and efficient implementation of these plans, with a focus on mitigating economic and environmental ramifications and actively involving the community in these processes.
