Celebrating the 5th Anniversary of
the Incheon Metropolitan City Public Agency for Social Service
I sincerely congratulate you on reaching
the milestone of your fifth anniversary of establishment.
This gathering signifies the first gathering
of social welfare professionals this year, reminiscent of a New Year’s meeting.
I hope today serves as a catalyst for uniting efforts
to benefit the citizens of Incheon throughout the year.
Reflecting on the 5th Anniversary of the Incheon Welfare Foundation
Reaching our fifth anniversary brings about fresh sentiments.
Establishing the Incheon Welfare Foundation during
the sixth directly elected term was an endeavor that required considerable time.
Our goal was to resolve welfare challenges more efficiently, streamline the delivery system,
and enhance efficiency through integrated management of various welfare entities and agencies.
This initiative was rooted in our commitment to
establishing authentic Incheon-style welfare from the beginning.
Subsequently, our name and functions evolved
with the government’s launch of the Social Service Center.
Today, the Social Service Center has expanded its services to support diverse groups in need,
including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children.
On this fifth anniversary, I look forward to the Incheon Metropolitan City Public Agency
for Social Service becoming a beacon for Incheon-style social services.
I invite all institutions here to collaborate in enhancing localized social welfare services
and capabilities tailored to our community’s unique needs.
Incheon: The Leading City of Happiness, The Second Largest Economic City
Incheon continues on its path of steady development and growth,
recently reaching a milestone of 3 million residents on January 29.
In today’s South Korea, achieving a population of 3 million on the resident registration
is increasingly rare, making Incheon’s population growth stand out amid a general decline.
Furthermore, last year, Incheon’s gross regional domestic product surpassed 104 trillion,
surpassing Busan and solidifying its position as the Republic of Korea’s second-largest economic city.
This marks a new era for Seoul, Incheon, Busan, and Daegu.
With a population of 3 million and an economy of over 100 trillion,
Incheon stands as the second economic powerhouse.
Our aim is to surpass these achievements and become the leading city of happiness.
Central to this goal is ensuring that those facing discomfort, struggle,
or hardship can find support within a balanced welfare system.
It is crucial that we all work together to foster hope.
My ambition is to transform Incheon into a world-class city
where all 3 million citizens experience happiness.
I urge everyone, especially those in the welfare sector, to lead this charge.
As mayor, I am committed to providing you with the best possible working environment.
The Inaugural Year of Reimagining Incheon-Style Welfare
Action on the ground is where real change begins.
Each of you, working in the field, holds the key to solutions;
your passion is the seed of hope, driving the progress of Incheon.
As we embark on this inaugural year of reimagining Incheon-style welfare,
I eagerly anticipate seeing our determination and promises transform into tangible results.
Once again, congratulations on the fifth anniversary of the inception
of the Incheon Metropolitan City Public Agency for Social Service.
I extend my gratitude to everyone involved for their collaboration.
May 2024 bring success to your endeavors and abundant blessings. Thank you.
