Transforming Uiseong: How the New Daegu-Gyeongbuk Airport Will Revolutionize Regional Transport

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[Herald Economy (Uiseong)=Reporter Kim Byung-jin] Choi Yoo-chul, the People Power Party candidate for Uiseong County mayor and former chair of the Uiseong County Council, unveiled on April 7 his fourth New Airport pledge, titled “Transport Innovation.” He called for fast-tracking a regional transit network tied to the Daegu–Gyeongbuk New Airport to sharply improve access to Uiseong.

Choi said, “To maximize the New Airport’s benefits, the transport network that supports industry, logistics and living conditions must be in place first.” He added, “I will pursue comprehensive transport reforms—upgrading rail, roads and local transit—to transform Uiseong from a simple airport hinterland into the transportation and logistics hub of central and southern Korea.”

The pledge aims to rapidly complete a regional transport system centered on Uiseong that links Daegu, the New Airport, northern Gyeongbuk and the East Coast.

Choi said he will make early delivery of the Daegu–Gyeongbuk New Airport regional express rail (West Daegu–New Airport–Uiseong) the county government’s top priority.

He emphasized the plan goes beyond securing the route: it includes passing the preliminary feasibility study, beginning construction early, improving station access, and building transfer infrastructure to establish a functional regional living area.

Strengthening the Jungang Line transport axis centered on Uiseong Station is another core pledge.

He also proposed expanding the road network, pledging phased measures to reinforce the Uiseong–New Airport–Gumi corridor, improve access to the Jungang Expressway, expand the New Airport’s access and hinterland roads, and bolster northern transport axes such as Uiseong–Yeongdeok.

Local mobility reforms that directly affect residents’ daily lives are included as well: expanding demand-responsive transit (DRT) to all towns and townships, considering tailored circulator shuttles for seniors and mobility-impaired residents, and gradually converting public transit to electric- and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Choi said, “I will add local transport improvements that Uiseong residents will truly feel. We will redraw Uiseong’s transportation map in time for the New Airport’s opening and open an era in which transport itself transforms industry, settlement and quality of life.”