Jeju Island Gov. Accepts Plan to Build Naval Base

Jeju Province Governor Woo Keun-min accepted Monday the central government’s proposal to build a naval base on the southern resort island. The base will be built in the township of Gangjeong in Seogwipo.

In an administrative policy speech to the Jeju Special Self-Governing Provincial Council, he said, “The Public Administration and Security Ministry promised us active support if we propose regional development plans based on opinions of the provincial government, council and residents.”

Woo had previously opposed the base plan, which was finalized by his predecessor Kim Tae-hwan.

“I made the decision after serious consideration and gathering opinions from relevant parties. I will explain to our residents the background of the decision and future policy directions,” Woo said.

The building of the naval base will finally start after the Defense Ministry requested it to Jeju in February 2007.

Jeju will make major revisions on its regional development plans to reflect the naval base. The participation of Gangjeong residents will also be encouraged.

To facilitate construction and strengthen support services, the Jeju Naval Base Conflict Resolution Promotion Group will be expanded to the Jeju Naval Base Construction and Regional Development Support Group.

Whether the construction will progress smoothly is uncertain, however, due to opposition from certain residents.

jy788@donga.com