GANGHWA ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA – Ganghwa County, a region rich in history and natural beauty within the Incheon Metropolitan City, is making significant strides in its ambitious endeavor to be designated as a Free Economic Zone (FEZ). This strategic move aims to attract foreign investment, foster innovation, and establish new engines for economic growth in the region.

On March 31st, Ganghwa County Mayor Park Yong-cheol and Yoon Won-seok, Commissioner of the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority (IFEZA), convened for a crucial on-site visit and in-depth discussions concerning the proposed FEZ. Their dialogue centered on the progress of the designation process, outlining the crucial next steps and formulating effective strategies for collaboration with the central government to ensure a smooth and successful application.

IFEZA is currently advancing the necessary administrative procedures to submit the FEZ designation application to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) in May. The proposed zone encompasses a substantial 10.03 square kilometers across the scenic areas of Hwado-myeon, Gilsang-myeon, and Yangdo-myeon, offering a promising landscape for future development.

Recognizing the pivotal role of business engagement in the success of the FEZ, Ganghwa County is actively forging stronger partnerships with key economic organizations. As a testament to this commitment, the Incheon Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host an ‘Invitation Briefing for Business Leaders on the Southern Part of Ganghwa’ on April 4th. This event is strategically designed to showcase the investment potential of the region and garner interest from domestic and international businesses. The county plans to collaborate with a diverse range of economic bodies to proactively encourage robust corporate investment.

County Mayor Park Yong-cheol articulated the compelling vision for the FEZ, stating, "The establishment of a Free Economic Zone, envisioned as a dynamic hub for green biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and comprehensive tourism, is indispensable for securing Ganghwa's future prosperity and creating sustainable growth opportunities for our residents."

Furthermore, Mayor Park highlighted the potential infrastructure benefits that would accompany the FEZ designation. "The designation will provide a significant impetus for the construction of the long-awaited bridge connecting Yeongjong Island, home to Incheon International Airport, with Ganghwa Island. This enhanced accessibility will be transformative, significantly improving connectivity and attracting greater investment and tourism," he emphasized. Mayor Park concluded with a strong commitment, expressing his determination to finalize the FEZ designation by the end of the current year, backed by the unwavering support of the entire Ganghwa community.

The collaborative efforts between Ganghwa County and the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority underscore a unified commitment to transforming Ganghwa Island into a thriving economic center. The strategic focus on high-growth industries and enhanced infrastructure, coupled with proactive engagement with the business community, signals a promising future for the region's economic development.

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