Jeju's Second Airport Issue Resurfaces Post-Election Amid Conflicting Demands

Calls are mounting for the swift construction of Jeju's second airport, a project that has divided the island's society for over a decade. Following the recent local elections, residents who support the airport's development are urging the newly elected governor, Wi Seong-gon, to uphold his campaign pledges.

Unlike four years ago, the second airport project did not emerge as a significant election issue this time. This shift is largely attributed to most leading candidates expressing support for its construction. In the recent Jeju Provincial Council elections, the Democratic Party secured a dominant 34 out of 45 seats, winning even in areas like Seongsan and Pyoseon, which were previously held by the People Power Party and where support for the second airport is high.

This electoral outcome suggests the airport's construction was not a decisive factor for voters. Candidates from both major parties largely favored the project. Governor-elect Wi Seong-gon, who previously advocated for the airport's necessity during his time as a National Assembly member, stated during the campaign that he would respect the residents' right to self-determination, proposing a referendum or public hearing to gauge final public opinion.

However, the Jeju Second Airport Construction Promotion Committee held a press conference urging Wi to act on his promise to resolve the conflict swiftly, stating, "The second airport is not subject to a resident referendum or public hearing." Conversely, the Emergency Citizens' Council to Block the Jeju Second Airport demanded clarity on how Wi's administration plans to implement the promised resident decision-making process. The differing stances highlight the ongoing tension surrounding the project.