On January 3, 2025, Ulsan City, South Korea, opened the new year with unity and hope at the '2025 Ulsan City General Assembly', which gathered political leaders, business officials, and citizens under the theme of 'A New Start Together with 230,000 Residents'. Held at the Ulsan Exhibition and Convention Center, the event was attended by approximately 600 participants, including Ulsan Mayor Kim Du-gyeom, Ulju County Mayor Lee Soon-gul, and local legislative officials.
The atmosphere was marked by somber recognition of the recent Jeju Air airplane crash, leading to moments of tribute for the victims and their families. Following the initial tributes, the assembly featured presentations and messages of hope for the new year.
Among the highlights was the ceremonial cutting of a traditional rice cake, symbolizing health and longevity for the community, adorned with the message 'Wishing for the health and safety of the 230,000 residents'. Mayor Lee expressed his commitment to serve and make Ulju County not just prideful but also to allow residents to experience happiness deeply embedded within local life.
A similar sentiment was echoed at another gathering held by the Ulsan Chamber of Commerce at KBS Ulsan Hall. The assembly focused on the theme 'Together, Let’s Leap Towards the Future', where community leaders highlighted the collaborative efforts necessary for economic resilience and social improvement.
Lee Yoon-cheol, Chairman of the Ulsan Chamber, addressed attendees by acknowledging the challenges posed by global trade conditions, environmental changes, and protective trade measures. He highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation among Ulsan's central industries to maintain global competitiveness.
Kim Du-gyeom also spoke, thanking participants for their steadfast support during challenging times, emphasizing the city's strides toward regional development initiatives, including the completion of four designated special zones pivotal for balanced growth. He promised continued large-scale investments and enhancement of Ulsan's economic viability through much-needed infrastructure expansions and social projects.
During the assembly, the attendees participated in member introductions and viewings of inspirational videos illustrating Ulsan’s vision for its future prosperity. The final ritual involved reaffirming community solidarity and commitment to revitalize the local economy through collaborative efforts, echoing the day's themes of unity and perseverance.
Continuing the positive atmosphere, participants exchanged new year’s greetings, bolstering bonds between local businesses, government officials, and citizens as they prepared to face the future together.
Overall, these assemblies served as platforms not only for starting the new year on the right foot but for solidifying Ulsan’s ambitions, tackling future challenges collectively, and ensuring the framework for sustainable economic growth and community wellness remains strong.