Candidates in 2022 Daegu Local Elections Prioritize Development Over Climate Equity, Study Finds
A survey of 2022 Daegu local election candidates revealed a pronounced emphasis on infrastructure and construction projects, with limited attention to climate resilience measures, according to a report by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs (KIHS). The study, published in March 2023, analyzed the policy platforms of 15 candidates for mayor and city council seats, highlighting concerns that climate-vulnerable communities may be overlooked in the region’s development plans.
Development Pledges Dominate Campaign Promises
Over 80% of candidates included infrastructure investment in their manifestos, with several pledging to expand urban development zones and accelerate public works projects. Candidate Lee Hyeon-jun, a conservative contender, promised to allocate 50 billion won to road construction and industrial park expansions, while progressive candidate Park Ji-hoon emphasized “modernizing Daegu’s transportation network.” However, none of the candidates explicitly addressed climate adaptation strategies for low-income neighborhoods, which are disproportionately affected by flooding and heatwaves, according to the KIHS report.
Climate Groups Warn of Exclusion in Policy Priorities
Environmental advocates argue that the lack of climate-focused pledges risks deepening regional inequalities. “Daegu’s marginalized communities, particularly in the Suseong and Jung-gu districts, face higher risks from extreme weather but are rarely consulted in planning processes,” said Kim Min-jun, a researcher at the Korean Environmental Justice Association. A 2021 government study found that 62% of Daegu’s low-income households reside in areas prone to flooding, yet only 14% of the city’s 2022 budget was allocated to climate resilience initiatives.
Call for Inclusive Policy-Making
The KIHS report urges candidates to integrate climate equity into their platforms, citing examples from other South Korean cities. Seoul’s 2020 climate action plan, for instance, included targeted investments in flood mitigation for vulnerable neighborhoods, while Busan’s 2022 budget allocated 20% of infrastructure funds to green projects. “Local leaders must balance growth with justice,” said Dr. Park Sun-hee, a public policy professor at Yonsei University. “Ignoring climate disparities undermines long-term stability.”
What’s Next for Daegu’s Climate Policy?
The 2022 election results showed a narrow victory for conservative candidate Yang Seong-jin, who has since faced pressure to address climate concerns. A city council committee is currently reviewing proposals to incorporate climate impact assessments into development projects, though timelines remain unclear. Activists warn that without immediate action, Daegu’s climate vulnerability could worsen, disproportionately affecting its most vulnerable residents.
Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs | Seoul Metropolitan Government | Yonsei University