Celebrating the 139th Anniversary of 

the Incheon Chamber of Commerce & Industry

From the Heart of Industrialization and Modernization 

to Korea’s Second-Largest Economic City

Today, we celebrate the 139th anniversary 

of the Incheon Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

What does the number 139 mean to us?

 It marks 1885, the year Incheon’s Chamber of Commerce, 

initially centered around a trading institution known as a “gaekju,” was founded. 

This number symbolizes the beginning of industrialization in the Republic of Korea, 

which started here in Incheon after the port opened in 1883. 

The city spearheaded both modernization and industrialization, 

and the Incheon Chamber of Commerce & Industry carries on that legacy.

I would like to take this moment to sincerely thank the past 

and present chairpersons of the Chamber, along with all its dedicated members, 

for their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions 

to the prosperity we enjoy today.

Thanks to your efforts,

 Incheon is now the Republic of Korea’s second-largest economic city.

Last year, Incheon’s economy grew by 6%, 

far outpacing the 2% growth seen in other cities. 

This is where we stand today, and we continue to move forward.

Recently, Incheon was designated as a specialized zone 

for the Bio National Advanced Strategic Industry, 

placing it at the forefront of a bio-industry sector 

into which the government will invest KRW 36 trillion. 

In addition, many other industries are increasingly concentrating around Incheon.

Continuing to Elevate Citizen Happiness 

in the Second Half of the 8th Local Government Term

Yesterday marked the beginning 

of the second half of the 8th local government’s term. 

During the staff’s monthly meeting,

I reflected on the past two years and reaffirmed my determination moving forward. 

Over the last two years, with the support 

of the Chamber members and our 3 million citizens, 

we have achieved significant progress. 

We have tackled numerous pressing issues and steadily prepared for the future. 

Most importantly, Incheon has now emerged 

as a leader in addressing key national and societal agendas, 

positioning itself as a major player in the Korean economy.

Our current direction focuses on “Only Incheon, Only Citizens, Only the Future.” 

This commitment ensures that the initiatives 

we are working on today will set the foundation for a brighter future.

We are working to bring the Overseas Koreans Agency to Incheon, 

striving to become a global top 10 city, 

and pushing forward with the Jemulpo Renaissance. 

Furthermore, we are restructuring our administrative system 

to create a future-oriented government. 

All of these efforts are aimed squarely at the future, 

and we will continue to drive them 

forward with vigor throughout the second half of this term. 

We will resolve today’s challenges, unlock tomorrow’s opportunities, 

and enhance the happiness of our citizens.

Yesterday, for the first activity of the second half of our term, 

I visited a small business in Incheon. 

We had meaningful conversations and toured the facility. 

Through this visit, I hope you can see my strong commitment. 

The key focus is how we can revitalize the economy, 

ensure the happiness of our citizens, and foster hope for the future. 

This is where our attention is directed.

Uniting through True Love for Incheon

Let’s Work Together to Shape Incheon into the City 

that Leads the Republic of Korea into the Future

I want to extend my gratitude to all the members 

of the Chamber of Commerce for your continued support. 

Together, we will build an even brighter future. 

Incheon is a city of hope, 

and it must continue to be a beacon for the Republic of Korea, 

as it is the only major city in the country with a growing population. 

Incheon is not only the second-largest economic city in the country 

but is also on its way to becoming a global city.

As we continue this journey, there is one more thing we must strengthen: 

we must come together through our genuine love for Incheon. 

It is through actions, not words, that we will shape our future. 

We will lead by example. Chamber members, 

as leaders not only in the economy but in the community, 

let us embody the spirit of true love for Incheon. 

Let us recreate Incheon’s value, realize its dreams, 

and build a proud city that will lead the Republic of Korea into the future.

Once again, congratulations on the 139th anniversary 

of the Incheon Chamber of Commerce & Industry, 

and I wish all of you continued success and prosperity. Thank you.