Korea-France Local Government Exchange Forum Delegation Introduced to Future Mobility Showcase

Hwaseong Special City (Mayor Jeong Myeong-geun) welcomed a delegation from French local governments and related agencies participating in the 'Korea-France Local Government Exchange Forum' on September 17, introducing major industrial sites and future mobility cases in Hwaseong Special City.

This visit was held as part of the on-site schedule of the 'Korea-France Local Government Exchange Forum' hosted by the Korea Association of Local Governments, and was organized to directly examine the industrial and technological sites of Hwaseong City, which has an automobile industry foundation and autonomous driving demonstration environment, in connection with the forum's theme of 'Energy, Environment, and Future.'

The delegation included Vice Mayor of Écueuille-Mulino, Vice Mayor of Buzier-au-Dam and other representatives from French local governments, officials from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Local Government Exchange Support Unit, and officials from the French Sister Cities Union (CUF).

The delegation first visited Kia Autoland Hwaseong to tour the automobile production site and examine the production and technological status of the automobile industry representing South Korea.

Subsequently, the delegation experienced autonomous vehicles firsthand in the 'Hwaseong Special City Autonomous Driving Living Lab' demonstration section created on urban roads and received explanations about autonomous driving technology and demonstration operation status.

At a welcome luncheon held after the on-site visit, officials from local governments of both countries shared policies and exchange cases from each region, creating a time for mutual exchange.

Yoo Woon-ho, Director of Autonomous Administration, said, "It is meaningful to welcome French local government officials in Hwaseong City and introduce our city's industrial sites and future mobility sectors in the year of the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations." He added, "We hope that this visit will serve as an opportunity to publicize Hwaseong City's industrial competitiveness and future mobility policies and expand understanding and exchange between local governments of both countries."