On January 23, 2026, President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of regional decentralization and balanced growth during the ‘Listening to Ulsan’s Voice’ town hall at the Ulsan Exhibition and Convention Center. He noted that while past policies focused resources on a single region, this strategy has now led to excessive concentration in the capital area, even drawing Ulsan toward Seoul. President Lee asserted that decentralization and balanced growth are now essential survival strategies for the nation. He called for a shift in policy to address regional disparities.
President Lee outlined plans to transition South Korea from a single-capital system to a five-pole structure, including Honam, Yeongnam, Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam, Daegu-Gyeongbuk, and Chungcheong, with three special autonomous provinces. He acknowledged the challenges posed by inertia and vested interests, stressing the need for public support and consensus. Regarding Ulsan, he highlighted its manufacturing heritage and proposed rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in the sector to boost competitiveness. He expressed intentions to make significant investments in Ulsan to lead future industries.
On economic policy, President Lee emphasized that the ultimate goal of politics is to improve citizens’ quality of life. He reminded the audience that South Korea is the only country to achieve both industrial success and democracy, crediting the people’s resilience for restoring order during difficult times. Addressing industrial safety, he stressed the importance of a safe society and growth in harmony, reiterating the need to value human life.
Before the town hall, President Lee visited Namchang Onggi Market in Ulju, engaging directly with local merchants. He purchased local specialties with Onnuri gift certificates and listened to merchants’ concerns. As the first president to visit Namchang Market, he was warmly welcomed and discussed the state of traditional markets with the market association president. These actions demonstrate his commitment to revitalizing local economies and supporting traditional markets.
President Lee’s statements and actions reflect a strong commitment to addressing the challenges of capital concentration and promoting balanced regional development. Focused investment in Ulsan’s manufacturing and AI sectors is poised to enhance regional competitiveness and drive national innovation in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. His direct engagement with traditional markets also signals a practical approach to boosting local economies and building public trust in government policies.