Interior ministry launches regional economy expo in Gangneung

The interior ministry opened the 2026 Regional Economy Innovation Expo on Thursday in Gangneung to share local government achievements and stimulate regional growth. The event, held at the Gangneung Olympic Park through Friday, coincides with the 21st Local Public Institution Day.

More than 200 institutions including local governments, public agencies and private organizations are operating booths to display projects focused on social solidarity, balanced regional development and disaster prevention. Key exhibits feature initiatives such as solar income villages, youth employment programs and measures to counter population decline.

The ministry also hosted the 22nd Korea Local Autonomy Management Competition and an awards ceremony on the opening day. Presidential citations were awarded to Haenam County in South Jeolla Province for converting marine waste into resources, saving approximately 3.3 billion won. Suyeong District in Busan received recognition for its drone and laser shows that generated an estimated 26.8 billion won in economic effects, while Jinju City in South Gyeongsang Province was honored for expanding bus ridership by 2.46 million people through transport discounts.

Additional presidential citations went to the Chungnam Content Agency, Gyeonggi Research Institute for Future Convergence Technology and Gyeongbuk Credit Guarantee Foundation for their roles in investment coordination, AI semiconductor testing support and expanded guarantees for small merchants. Individual honors included a National Medal of Honor for Jang Chung-mo of Jeonam Development Corp and a presidential citation for former Gyeongnam Technopark executive Jo Yu-seop.

"The ministry held this expo to closely unite with local governments and public institutions to increase the value of the regional economy," Interior Minister Yoon Ho-joong said. "Verified innovation cases will be shared nationwide to serve as a catalyst for bringing vitality to regions and warmth to the economy."