Professional Administrator Needed to Strengthen City Foundation

"Although Suwon has grown externally, the city still lacks internal substance. After 35 years of public service, I am running for Suwon mayor with the firm determination to dedicate everything to developing Suwon with this needed foundation."

Shim Jae-in, former head of Gyeonggi Province Autonomous Administration Bureau, officially announced his candidacy for Suwon mayor on the 8th. Candidate Shim held a press conference at the Gyeonggi Province Council briefing room on the day and made the announcement.

He said, "Now is the time when Suwon needs a professional administrator to support external growth and strengthen the city's foundation," and pledged, "I will revive Suwon's assets—its history and culture—establish Suwon's identity, and elevate it to the rank of a world-class city that the world admires."

He added, "While improving the residential environment in existing downtown areas to enhance residents' quality of life, I will create a vibrant city in the new city areas through support for educational and cultural facilities."

Candidate Shim, who began his public service career in Suwon and held key positions including vice mayor of Gwacheon City, acting mayor and vice mayor of Pocheon City, vice mayor of Paju City, head of Gyeonggi Province Culture and Welfare Bureau, and head of Autonomous Administration Bureau, emphasized that he would redraw Suwon's blueprint based on this administrative experience.

In particular, he showed confidence that he is not behind other preliminary candidates in local activities and support base, and expressed confidence regarding the nomination from the Grand National Party. He said, "As a native of Suwon who has lived here for 58 years, I may not have a political foundation, but I am more confident than anyone in local activities and support base," and stated, "Since I am running with confidence in the nomination, I expect to receive it without fail."