Unlocking Gyeonggi’s Potential: Choo Mi-ae’s Bold Policies for Transportation and AI Innovation

Rep. Choo Mi-ae of the Democratic Party officially announced her candidacy for governor of Gyeonggi Province in the June 3 local elections on the 12th.

At a press conference at the Gyeonggi Provincial Assembly, Choo said, “I will make Gyeonggi a province that residents can be proud of,” and added that she would lead provincial government with responsible, action-oriented administration.

In her announcement, she identified the province’s pressing problems—commuter congestion, insufficient infrastructure in newly developed towns, persistent north–south disparities, and stalled growth due to regulatory constraints—and argued that innovative, decisive leadership is required. She also referenced President Lee Jae-myung’s time as Gyeonggi governor, saying the province needs a shift in mindset to put residents at the center of governance.

Choo presented four core pledges: fostering future industries centered on semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI); compensating communities in regulated zones and building a fair economic framework; modernizing administration through AI and data; and strengthening life-stage–tailored care. She stressed support for low-income and middle-class households through a Choo Mi-ae–style Gyeonggi basic income and an expanded supply of secure housing.

On transportation, Choo promised a “transportation revolution” by expediting completion of the GTX and JTX regional express rail networks to bind the province into a single megacity. She also proposed a “15-minute livable city” concept, where residents can access transit, hospitals, schools, and cultural facilities within 15 minutes of home.

After a National Assembly press conference, she held a separate event at the Gyeonggi Provincial Assembly in Suwon to reaffirm her candidacy. Asked whether she would resign as chair of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, she said she would continue to support prosecution-reform legislation and that her candidacy should be considered separate from any decision about stepping down as chair.

Meanwhile, Gov. Kim Dong-yeon formally launched his re-election bid the same day, turning the Democratic Party’s gubernatorial primary into a five-way race that also includes Rep. Han Jun-ho, Rep. Kwon Chil-seung, and former Rep. Yang Gi-dae. With Choo and Kim declaring their bids on the same day, the party primary is expected to intensify.