[1-Minute Cut] 620 Billion Debt Fuse… Integration Shaken Amid Distrust

[Cheonji Ilbo Jeonbuk=Reporter Kim Dong-hyun] Jeonju City’s 620 billion won debt has emerged as the biggest fuse in the Jeonju–Wanju integration debate. Wanju residents, voicing concerns over tax burdens, reduced benefits, and marginalization of their living zones, insist, “We cannot shoulder the debt.”

Jeonbuk Province and Jeonju City announced they would codify 105 coexistence plans into the Integration City Act, but distrust among residents remains. Jeonju’s debt totals 620 billion won, while Wanju County’s stands at only 33.2 billion won.

Residents argue, “Taxes will rise but benefits will shrink,” and point out, “Outlying areas will be further marginalized.” They also note that although major companies such as Hyundai Motor’s Jeonju Plant are located in Wanju, the use of the “Jeonju” name provides little tangible benefit to locals.

While political leaders emphasize the necessity of integration for regional development and business attraction, residents criticize what they see as insincere explanations and evasion of responsibility. Without trust and improvements felt in daily life, many warn that integration talks will only deepen conflict.