South Korea's First Female Provincial Governor Pledges Fair, Warm Governance

Choo Mi-ae, who made history as the first woman to win a provincial governorship in South Korea, officially began her term by paying respects at the Suwon National Cemetery. The Democratic Party candidate, elected as the next governor of Gyeonggi Province, visited the memorial on Tuesday morning to honor fallen patriots and soldiers.

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Inheriting the will of the patriotic martyrs, I will lead Gyeonggi Province with fairness and warmth.

She was accompanied by other Democratic Party officials, including Gyeonggi Superintendent-elect Ahn Min-seok and mayors of Suwon, Hwaseong, and Siheung. In the guestbook, Choo inscribed her commitment: "Inheriting the will of the patriotic martyrs, I will lead Gyeonggi Province with fairness and warmth." This marked her formal entry into the role of Gyeonggi governor for the 9th term.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Choo expressed some disappointment with the election results, where her party did not secure a landslide victory in local mayoral races. However, she stressed her willingness to cooperate with all local leaders, stating, "I will not consider the political party of the head of a local government when working for the citizens. If they communicate transparently and fairly, I can be a partner and work together."

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I will not consider the political party of the head of a local government when working for the citizens. If they communicate transparently and fairly, I can be a partner and work together.

Addressing concerns that her core pledge of a unified metropolitan transport pass might face obstacles due to the re-election of Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, an opposition party member, Choo asserted her determination to overcome challenges. "Cooperation is decided based on common sense and rationality," she said. "Gyeonggi Province surrounds Seoul, making us virtually one body. Based on this organic relationship, I will resolve issues like transportation and environmental problems through dialogue and principles."

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Cooperation is decided based on common sense and rationality. Gyeonggi Province surrounds Seoul, making us virtually one body. Based on this organic relationship, I will resolve issues like transportation and environmental problems through dialogue and principles.

Regarding the short transition period, Choo outlined her plan to form an advisory committee with experts focused on her campaign pledges. She emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity in provincial administration while also identifying areas needing change. Choo also stated her intention to meet with the current governor, Kim Dong-yeon, soon to ensure a smooth handover of duties. When asked how she wishes to be remembered, she recalled her campaign slogan, "Confident Gyeonggi, Reliable Choo Mi-ae," and expressed her desire to be known as a "truly reliable governor."

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Confident Gyeonggi, Reliable Choo Mi-ae