Kim Sanghoe: "Will do my best to realize free elementary school meals"

Following the June 2 local election, we heard from elected Gyeonggi Provincial Council members from the Suwon area about their election victory feelings and future legislative activity plans. In the second installment, Kim Sanghoe (48, photo), the elected representative from Suwon District 3 (Seryuu 1, 2, 3-dong, Gwonseon 1, 2-dong, Gokson 2-dong), expressed his determination to become a resident's "happy Kim" who will not lose his initial resolve.

▲ It was a campaign period that was short if you call it short, and long if you call it long. Based on my civic organization activities, I have run with the desire and determination to change the world and Gyeonggi Province. As a result of spending each day with citizens and conviction that what we were doing was right, we created a small achievement called "election." However, how could this have been possible through my efforts alone?

The greatest victors of this election are the citizens of Gyeonggi Province and Suwon, and indeed the residents of Gwonseon-gu who wish to rebuild South Korea, which has not been progressing well. This achievement was made possible by accumulating the will of each precious citizen and resident of this land who attempted to correct the retreating democracy, inter-Korean relations, and economic issues. I believe this result is because you chose me as your representative to correctly implement these achievements in the Gyeonggi Provincial Council.

- What are your aspirations for future legislative activities?

▲ Regardless of political parties, I will meet people and conduct legislative activities with the attitude of reconciling senior and junior colleagues in the region and all residents. In particular, I will do my best to realize free school meals, which is my core campaign pledge. Through years of experience as an elementary school operating committee member, I have researched elementary school education budgets and have shared the pain of the field. Therefore, I understand well parents' wishes for free school meals.

To achieve this core pledge, my priority is to conduct legislative activities with policy alternatives. As a provincial council member, I will empathize with residents' pain, contemplate solutions, and actively reflect them in my legislative work. Through this, I want to be remembered as a council member who is with the residents.

- Is there any area of provincial administration that you want to correct?

▲ Governor Kim Moonsu, who humbly accepts the results and claims to accept the will of the people while remaining unchanged in promoting the Four Major Rivers and GTX projects, must face reality. I believe the pledges Governor Kim presented in the last election lacked comprehensive detail and justification. Even local government leaders in the Seoul metropolitan area do not recognize the GTX project. It appears to be an action that deviates from common sense logic.

While Governor Kim advocates for pro-people policies, I believe the policy foundation itself is contradictory. Rather than the GTX, he should have grasped the essence of ordinary people-centered policies, such as expanding bus routes. Furthermore, I will clearly raise questions about the fact that more than 200 special contract employees have been hired since Governor Kim took office. Additionally, if the opportunity arises, I intend to request a debate with Governor Kim.

- Is there anyone you are most grateful to during this election campaign period?

▲ This was my first time participating in the "election" festival. I believe we were able to achieve victory because of the many acquaintances and campaign workers around me who helped during this election. Although this was my first election, the campaign workers and volunteers who participated together, maintaining their smiles despite physical fatigue from early mornings to late hours with the determination that I could do it, are people I will absolutely never forget—truly precious and grateful people.

- Finally, would you like to say something to residents of the district?

▲ I will never forget your expectations. Please watch my actions over the next four years. When I fall short or make mistakes, I ask for your criticism and encouragement to help me act correctly. "Happy Kim" Sanghoe, I will work hard to truly create a happy society. I sincerely thank everyone for your support.