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Cheongna Haneul Bridge Sparks Dispute Over Toll Exemptions for Foreign Residents

Incheon: The city of Incheon, known for its international airport and ports, has recently added the Cheongna Haneul Bridge to its landscape. This bridge connects Cheongna International City with Yeongjong Island, forming part of the Incheon Free Economic Zone. The bridge spans 4.68 kilometers and features a six-lane crossing, as well as the world's tallest offshore observation deck. According to Yonhap News Agency, the new bridge has become the center of a dispute regarding toll exemptions intended for local residents. The local government plans to exempt toll fees for residents of Yeongjong, Cheongna, and Bukdo Township when the bridge opens on January 5. The exemptions vary from 2,000 won ($1.36) to 4,000 won, depending on the vehicle type, and will extend to all Incheon residents by April 2026. However, the exemption policy requires vehicles to be owned by residents registered under the Resident Registration Act, which excludes foreign nationals under Article 6. This discrepancy in the governing laws mak es it difficult for officials to extend the benefit to foreigners, whose registration is managed under the Immigration Act. Policymakers are urged to consider revising these outdated laws, given Korea's increasingly diverse residential makeup. The exclusion of foreign residents from such exemptions could have significant financial implications and could foster a sense of exclusion detrimental to community health. As of October, foreign residents in Korea numbered over 2.8 million, contributing significantly to labor markets and educational institutions. There are calls for improved immigration policies and integration efforts, including robust legal protections and expanded social services. The Cheongna Haneul Bridge is anticipated to alleviate traffic near Incheon International Airport, yet the bridge's debut is marked by disagreements over its naming and toll exemption policies. Local policymakers are encouraged to reassess regulations to promote fairness and inclusivity for foreign residents.

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