Jeong Ha-young, the mayor of Gimpo, has been recognized for his efforts to enhance the support and recognition of independence activists, receiving the National Spirit Award from the Korean Liberation Association (KLA). The award acknowledges his role in amending local ordinances to improve the treatment of independence activists and veterans.
On the 13th, the KLA presented the National Spirit Award to Mayor Jeong at the KLA headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul.
In his speech, Kim Won-woong, president of the KLA, praised Mayor Jeong for not only working to improve the happiness of Gimpo residents and elevate the city's values but also for taking the lead in reinforcing support for independence activists. He emphasized that Jeong's actions are a model for promoting the spirit of Korea's independence movement.
Kim added, "Mayor Jeong's efforts to support KLA members serve as an exemplary model for grassroots local governments. We hope this momentum spreads to other local governments across the country."
In June, Mayor Jeong amended the Gimpo Ordinance on the Recognition and Support of National Veterans, establishing new criteria for providing stipends to independence activists.
Starting January 1 of next year, the city will provide a monthly honorarium of 100,000 KRW to KLA members residing in Gimpo.