Chuncheon: President Lee Jae Myung announced on Friday that the government plans to increase support for regions adjacent to North Korea to address their sacrifices and encourage balanced regional growth. Lee made this commitment during a town hall meeting with residents in Gangwon Province, situated south of the Demilitarized Zone that divides the two Koreas.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee emphasized that Gangwon, despite being the country's largest tourist spot, has endured considerable sacrifices due to the inter-Korean conflict. Speaking at the event in Chuncheon, approximately 85 kilometers northeast of Seoul, he acknowledged the unique challenges faced by regions like Gangwon.

While addressing the residents, Lee stated, "Although we cannot fully compensate for the special sacrifices borne by border regions like Gangwon, we will make every effort to ensure that living in Gangwon no longer feels unfair." He criticized previous administrations for imposing stringent restrictions on border areas without offering adequate compensation, labeling the practice as "unjust."

President Lee outlined plans to enhance education, cultural, and welfare infrastructure in the region to improve living conditions. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy aimed at achieving balanced national development.