greater control over its own budget and more power to attract businesses and industry. He also stressed the importance of immigration to address the city’s demographic problems.
Yang Mi-sook, leader of the local citizens’ campaign group, Citizen’s Solidarity for Participation of Busan, agreed that the government needed to do more to address Busan’s decline. She highlighted the need for policies that support young people and families, such as affordable housing, childcare services, and job opportunities.
As Busan grapples with the challenges of an ageing population and a shrinking workforce, the city is faced with the urgent task of revitalizing its economy and attracting young people to stay and build their lives there. Only time will tell if Busan can reverse its fortunes and once again become a vibrant and thriving city.