▲ Photo by Yang Jiyeong

[This article is written by a JDC Junior Journalist. The JDC Junior Journalist program is an educational project sponsored by Jeju Free International City Development Center (JDC). JDC Junior Journalist articles are only briefly edited by mentors before publishing.]

On May 17th, Han-wook Kim, JDC chairman, held a press conference for the JDC Junior Journalist at the JDC office to introduce his company’s policies.

Before starting the interview he said, “Korea is located in the Asia - Pacific region, and is positioned well in a center for trade. Jeju developed infrastructure like airports, harbors, and roads. Jeju has beautiful nature, unique traditions, and the basis for a tourism industry, i.e., hotels, golf clubs, etc.. That’s the reason why the government is pushing for the Jeju free international city project, and JDC is managing this project.”

When asked about the meaning of the “Free International City” he said, “It is the basis for the free movement of people, products, and capital in order to develop Jeju and Korea. Visiting Jeju doesn’t require a visa, so the free movement of people is guaranteed. Jeju doesn’t have any manufacturing factories, and there shouldn’t be any because their presence harms Jeju’s natural environment. Destroying Jeju’s nature has negative impacts on us and our descendants. Products’ movement is limited right now. JDC is attracting foreign capital. When we develop an area it is nice if the inhabitants take part in the development to make a profit. However, Jeju’s financial sector isn’t ready yet, so it is hard to give jobs to the inhabitants. I wanted Jeju’s nature to be stand out from other countries. So I highlighted Jeju’s beautiful nature, traditons, and location. In this way, Jeju became free international city.”

When asked about his favorite JDC project. He answered, “Health care and Jeju English Education City are my favorite projects. Developing Jeju is important, but the most important thing is preserving the environment and creating many opportunities for the inhabitants to benefit from the free international city.”

He continued, “Our great grandfathers worked very hard so we can now live in a developed Jeju. Thinking about their effort, we have to preserve Jeju and leave the beautiful natural environment for our descendants. Increasing the nation’s wealth is our duty.”

According to JDC Website, in accordance with “The Special Law for The Jeju Special Self-Governing Province and Construction of the Free International City,“ an exclusive organization, “The Jeju Free International City Development Center” was created to promote and support Jeju on a national scale‘.

He asked us to preserve Jeju’s nature, be competent people, and develop a wealthy base.