Former PM Kim Boo-kyum visits Iksan, outlines vision for regional growth

Former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum spent his first weekend after stepping down from his post in Iksan, located in Jeollabuk-do province. He shared his aspirations for the future, stating, "I see the future in Iksan." Kim posted on X, formerly Twitter, that this weekend marked perhaps the first truly restful one in years since his time as Prime Minister.

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I see the future in Iksan.

Kim described Iksan as a place he fell in love with during his 18 years as a private citizen traveling across the country. He cited its excellent transportation, food, people, and deep history as reasons why he had planned to build a home there for the past decade. His decision to become an honorary citizen and purchase a home was also influenced by his mother-in-law's need for care.

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Prime Minister's resignation first weekend, perhaps the first weekend with rest in years, I am spending it at my home in Iksan, Jeollabuk-do.

Reflecting on his visit to the Iksan National Museum that morning, Kim emphasized the importance of regional development. He noted that the Saemangeum project, which received significant support during his tenure as Prime Minister, would only succeed if the surrounding areas experienced concurrent advancements in culture, healthcare, and education.

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Iksan, where I fell in love during my 18 years as a private citizen traveling the country. Good transportation, good food, good people, and deep history, so I decided to build a house and live here someday.

Kim also touched upon the three major national projects involving large corporations like Samsung and SK, and the state. He suggested that these initiatives are part of the legacy of the Lee Jae-myung administration and South Korea's historical trajectory, aiming for the nation's leap forward.

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The Saemangeum Hyundai investment, which I poured my heart into supporting during my time as Prime Minister, will ultimately succeed if the culture, medical care, and education of the surrounding regions develop together.