Majority sees '3 Big Mega Projects' aiding regional balance: poll

South Korea's '3 Big Mega Projects,' aimed at fostering large-scale investments in advanced industries like semiconductors and artificial intelligence, are viewed positively by a majority of the public regarding their potential for regional development. A nationwide survey conducted by Korea Gallup revealed that 57% of respondents believe these projects will contribute to balanced regional growth.

However, a significant minority, 26%, expressed concerns that the mega projects could exacerbate existing disparities between different regions. The remaining 17% were undecided. Notably, support for the projects' regional development benefits was highest among those identifying as progressive (85%), followed by moderates (61%). Conservative respondents showed less enthusiasm, with only 34% believing the projects would aid regional balance.

The survey also gauged public opinion on President Yoon Suk-yeol's performance. Fifty-three percent of respondents approved of his job performance, a slight decrease from the previous week, while 35% disapproved. In terms of party support, the Democratic Party garnered 42%, maintaining its lead over the People Power Party, which received 24% support, marking a three-week decline for the conservative party.

Other parties polled included the Cho Kuk Innovation Party and the Reform Party, each with 3% support, and the Progressive Party and Basic Income Party, each with 1%. Twenty-six percent of respondents identified as unaffiliated with any political party. Detailed results are available on the website of the National Election Survey Deliberation Commission.