2023 Gangneung Mayoral Race: Why Kwon Hyuk-yeol’s Vision for AI and Tourism Could Transform the City

Kwon Hyuk-yeol, a member of the People Power Party and former chairman of the Gangwon Provincial Council, has declared his intention to run for mayor of Gangneung in the upcoming June 3 local elections.

During his announcement at his Ponam-dong office on February 10, Kwon stated, “Our city needs a mayor with the drive and accountability to translate grassroots voices into effective policies.”

He outlined his platform, saying, “I will implement five key future initiatives, including attracting a 1GW-class AI data center, securing a business center to serve as the control tower for the Gangwon Special Zone Development, establishing an integrated care system in Gangneung, and bidding for the 2038 Gangneung Winter Olympics.” Kwon emphasized his plans to designate areas such as Jumunjin, Yeongok, Sacheon, Jeongdongjin, and Wangsan as extended-stay tourist destinations and develop tourism products in partnership with local small businesses.

He further added, “Drawing from my experience as chairman of the provincial council’s special committee on water management, I will take proactive measures to address climate change through initiatives like multi-source water development and seawater desalination projects.”

In closing, Kwon remarked, “A mayor should be a public servant who listens attentively to citizens and puts their ideas into action. I am committed to creating a thriving Gangneung where residents see tangible improvements in their lives through policies that truly reflect their needs and desires. I pledge to be the genuine mayor that our citizens deserve.” By Lee Yeon-je, Staff Reporter