Jeonbuk's Metropolitan Transportation System Welcomes a New Era

The amendment to the "Special Law on Metropolitan Transportation Management in Metropolitan Areas (hereinafter referred to as the Metropolitan Area Law)" has passed the National Assembly, including Jeonju in the legal metropolitan area, enabling the region to receive government support for metropolitan transportation projects. Previously excluded from the metropolitan area, Jeonbuk had been developing its transportation infrastructure solely with its own budget. This amendment is seen as a significant turning point for regional balanced development.

Jeonbuk Governor Kim Kwan-young stated, "The passage of the Metropolitan Area Law will be a significant opportunity to substantially change the lives of residents," adding, "Improvements in commuting, proximity to jobs, increased access to culture and healthcare will significantly enhance the quality of life for residents." He emphasized the thorough preparation for subsequent procedures to bring about tangible changes in the transportation environment that residents can feel, focusing on incorporating the metropolitan transportation implementation plan.

Connecting Jeonju, Iksan, Gimje, Wansu...as One Living Zone

With the amendment to the Metropolitan Area Law, Jeonbuk can now receive government support for expanding the metropolitan transportation network based on the same criteria as existing metropolitan areas like Seoul and Busan. This is expected to lead to the full-scale implementation of the metropolitan transportation network construction project connecting major cities in the province such as Jeonju, Iksan, Gimje, and Wansu.

Improvements in road capacity in sections prone to traffic congestion are expected to not only shorten commuting times but also have a positive impact on relieving congestion in city centers. Strengthening the connectivity between urban and surrounding areas is anticipated to significantly enhance accessibility to facilities such as education, healthcare, and cultural amenities.

Expansion of Transfer Centers and Public Transportation Reform...Towards a 'People-Centered' Transportation Environment

Jeonbuk Province plans to accelerate the transition of the public transportation system following the amendment to the Metropolitan Area Law. There are plans to establish transfer centers at major railway stations like Jeonju Station to complement existing fragmented routes and enhance transfer convenience. Once these transfer infrastructures are in place, they are expected to function as essential hubs for metropolitan public transportation, significantly improving accessibility across the province.

Furthermore, collaboration between cities, related agencies, and research institutions will drive a comprehensive reform of the intercity public transportation system through the establishment of metropolitan railway routes. This is expected to lead to the creation of a 'people-centered' transportation environment that guarantees convenience and freedom of movement in residents' daily lives.

Enhancing Logistics Infrastructure...Boosting Regional Industrial Vitality

The expansion of the metropolitan transportation network is expected to play a significant role in enhancing regional industries and streamlining logistics efficiency. The province plans to establish freight car terminals at major hubs to alleviate urban logistics congestion, increase accessibility to industrial complexes and logistics facilities, and maximize the efficiency of logistics flow.

In particular, strengthening the network connecting expressways, ports, and railways will facilitate smoother movement between provincial industrial complexes and external markets, enhancing the competitiveness of attracting businesses. The cost-saving effects of logistics, as well as the conditions that can induce the relocation of companies from the capital region to the provinces, will be created.

Contributing to Improving Living Conditions and Preventing Population Outflow

The amendment to the Metropolitan Area Law is expected to serve as a groundbreaking opportunity to dramatically improve the living conditions of residents in Jeonbuk. With increased accessibility to major infrastructures such as hospitals, universities, and cultural facilities, it is possible to attract settlement of young people and families at the local level. Strengthening connectivity between key cities in the province could lead to the formation of integrated living zones, helping to bridge the gap between regions.

Through this amendment, Jeonbuk has secured its legal status as a 'metropolitan city at the provincial level,' symbolizing a significant step towards substantial balanced development within the policy structure centered around the capital region.

Jeonbuk Province to Commence Development of Jeonju Metropolitan Transportation Plan Soon

Following the amendment to the Metropolitan Area Law, Jeonbuk Province plans to immediately start the process of developing the Jeonju Metropolitan Transportation Plan in consultation with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. The province aims to adjust the priority of projects, conduct preliminary feasibility studies, and proceed with national planning and securing government funding.

A provincial official stated, "Through this opportunity, we will expand the metropolitan transportation network from Jeonju to cover the entire province and systematically improve the transportation environment throughout Jeonbuk."