Uijeongbu citizens fear 'second light rail' as they demand halt to Go stadium construction

Citizens' groups in Uijeongbu, South Korea, are calling for an immediate halt to the construction of a dedicated Go stadium, urging the city to renegotiate its agreement with the Korea Baduk Association. Protesters gathered outside the construction site and the city hall, demanding transparency regarding the project's financial implications and operational plans.

“

We are not against Go, but we are urging a review of the project to prioritize limited finances for areas directly connected to citizens' lives.

The core of the protest stems from Uijeongbu's precarious financial situation. The city faces significant budget shortfalls, with projections indicating annual deficits ranging from 13 billion to 35.5 billion won between 2027 and 2030. Citizens' groups argue that limited public funds should be prioritized for essential services directly impacting residents' lives, rather than a specialized sports facility.

Concerns have been amplified by the perceived lack of a clear operational blueprint for the stadium. The agreement, signed in 2021, includes provisions for the Korea Baduk Association's continuous occupancy and minimal financial burden on the city, such as rent exemptions. The 39.65 billion won project, with the city contributing 29.8 billion won (including 10 billion won in municipal bonds), aims to boost the local economy through tournaments and public Go classes.

“

Public facilities are assets for all citizens, so the basis for free use and the benefits citizens will gain must be disclosed.

However, critics warn that the project could mirror the city's "second light rail" issue, referring to a past infrastructure project that became a significant financial drain. They demand a public forum to discuss cost-sharing and operational models, and are considering requesting a provincial audit of the project's progression. City officials maintain that the agreement does not supersede existing laws and that the Korea Baduk Association will be responsible for legally mandated usage fees, though operational costs for the city remain undefined.

“

Building a facility is a one-time event, but operation lasts for decades. This project could become a second light rail.