Chairperson Kim Hyun-mi of the Administrative Welfare Committee of the Sejong Special Self-Governing City Council in South Korea, along with her delegation, paid a visit to the Taichung City Government today (15th). Secretary-General Huang Chong-dian received the guests on behalf of Mayor Lu Shiow-Yen. Both sides exchanged views on topics such as local welfare policies and the operational models of public institutions, and expressed hopes for future collaboration to strengthen exchanges between Taichung and Sejong City across various sectors.
Secretary-General Huang noted that Taichung is the second-largest city in Taiwan, with a population exceeding 2.86 million. In response to the rapidly changing social structure, the city government has, in recent years, actively promoted social policies centered on the core values of well-being, inclusiveness, and local care. The administration focuses on three main areas: child-friendly and family-supportive initiatives; elderly care and aging in place; and equality and social inclusion. Through the implementation of concrete policies, the city government seeks to proactively address the needs of citizens at different stages of life.
Secretary-General Huang also noted that Taichung enjoys a central geographical location and a pleasant climate, making it a key transportation hub in Taiwan. The city not only develops refined agriculture but has also established industrial zones and science parks, holding competitive advantages in industries such as semiconductor chips, optical panels, precision machinery, and bicycles. Since the merger of Taichung City and Taichung County, Taichung has been one of the few municipalities with continuous population growth and is recognized as one of the most livable and happiest cities in Taiwan. Secretary-General Huang also shared that Korean barbecue culture is very popular in Taichung. The Taichung Hot Pot & BBQ Festival has officially kicked off, and it is hoped that more local residents and international visitors will come to Taichung to enjoy the unique culinary delights of Korea.
Chairperson Kim noted that both Sejong City and Taichung place great importance on policies related to childcare and the protection of disadvantaged groups. In light of the growing trends of population aging and declining birth rates, there is an even greater need to emphasize relevant social welfare policies and measures. Kim also expressed hope that this visit would facilitate policy exchanges and strengthen future collaboration between the two cities.
According to the Secretariat, Sejong Special Self-Governing City is located in central South Korea, approximately 120 kilometers from Seoul, with a population of about 390,000. It is the only special self-governing city in South Korea, officially established in July 2012 under the Special Act on the Establishment of Sejong Special Self-Governing City. Its administrative status is equivalent to that of a municipality. The city was established to alleviate the overcrowding and administrative burden of the capital, Seoul. Since its establishment, while key central institutions such as the Blue House (Presidential Office), National Assembly, and Ministry of National Defense have remained in Seoul, many other central government agencies and research institutes have relocated to Sejong, making it the de facto administrative capital of South Korea.
Today’s visit was marked by a warm and engaging atmosphere. On the side of the Taichung City Government, in addition to Secretary-General Huang Chong-dian, Director Liao Ching-chih of the Social Affairs Bureau, Director Hsieh Chia-chen of the Secretariat, Deputy Director Chen Li-chuan of the Health Bureau, and Deputy Director Shih Chun-fu of the Cultural Affairs Bureau all participated in the exchange with Chairperson Kim and her delegation.