[1-Minute Cut] “Co-Growth” vs “Political Ambition”… Jeonju-Wanju Merger Conflict

[Cheonji Ilbo Jeonbuk=Reporter Kim Dong-hyun] Conflicts are intensifying over the push to merge Jeonju and Wanju in Jeonbuk Province. After more than 30 years of repeated failures, the merger discussion has now ignited through a residents’ referendum. Proponents argue it will strengthen regional competitiveness and create a metropolitan economic zone, while opponents fear damage to local identity and unfair development.

On the 25th of last month, ahead of Jeonbuk Governor Kim Kwan-young’s visit, hundreds of Wanju residents gathered in front of the county office chanting “No Merger,” and 10 members of the Wanju County Council shaved their heads in protest. Residents said, “Only undesirable facilities like waste incineration plants will come in,” adding, “We will never agree to the merger.” Seo Nam-yong, head of the Merger Opposition Special Committee, said, “Even if it’s more than a referendum, it will definitely be rejected.”

Meanwhile, the Wanju County Residents Council and Jeonju Citizens Council agreed on 105 co-prosperity measures, proposing to build the integrated city hall in Wanju, ban relocation of unwanted facilities, and place the agricultural bureau in Wanju. Na Yoo-in, co-representative of the Wanju County Residents Council, said, “This merger is a historical restoration to reverse the division imposed by Japanese colonial rule,” emphasizing that “it is both the first step and the last chance for Jeonbuk’s development.”

Governor Kim Kwan-young and Jeonju Mayor Woo Beom-ki stated that the merger is “a task for Jeonbuk’s future” and expressed their intention to respect residents’ opinions. However, Wanju County Mayor Yoo Hee-tae and the county council countered that “no form of merger without residents’ consent can ever be accepted.”

Amid divided public opinion, the Jeonju-Wanju merger stands at a critical crossroads that will determine Jeonbuk’s future.