Gwangju Mayor Min Hyung-bae Holds First “Empathy Talk Talk,” Urges Staff to “Work Together to Transform Citizens’ Lives”

【Financial News Jeonnam-Gwangju = Reporter Hwang Tae-jong】Min Hyung-bae, mayor of Gwangju Metropolitan City and the integrated special city of Jeonnam-Gwangju, held the first “Empathy Talk Talk” for all employees since the integration on the 3rd in the main conference room of the Gwangju Government Complex, urging them to “work together to transform citizens’ lives.” The Muan and Eastern government complexes participated via internal broadcasts.
According to Gwangju Metropolitan City, “Empathy Talk Talk” was created by consolidating the “regular employee meetings” previously operated separately by Gwangju Metropolitan City and Jeonnam Province. It is intended to share and discuss major municipal issues, achievements, and governing principles with employees.
At the first “Empathy Talk Talk,” officials explained the progress and achievements of efforts to establish the Honam semiconductor cluster. They also introduced the 2026 Yeosu World Island Exhibition and the 16th Gwangju Biennale, the first major international events to be held after the integration, encouraging employees to participate and promote them.
Mayor Min Hyung-bae particularly emphasized, “We are standing at a time of great change and opportunity,” and urged employees, “Let us think together about what we can do to ensure that the integrated special city improves citizens’ lives.”
He also expressed his gratitude for the employees’ hard work, saying, “Although the integration process moved quickly and created a confusing situation, all of you fulfilled your responsibilities in your respective positions.”
He further encouraged employees by highlighting the integrated special city’s recent achievements, including the establishment of the Honam semiconductor cluster, the relocation of the military airport, and the establishment of a national medical school.
Mayor Min also listened to employees’ difficulties, including the childcare challenges faced by a male public official raising a three-year-old child. He promised active support and boosted their morale.
Meanwhile, Gwangju Metropolitan City plans to hold “Empathy Talk Talk” monthly to share municipal affairs and promote its achievements. The event will rotate among the three government complexes to facilitate communication with employees.

[email protected] Hwang Tae-jong Reporter