As the South Korean government and National Assembly accelerate the process of administrative integration among metropolitan local governments, regions including Gangwon, Jeju, Jeonbuk, and Sejong are voicing strong opposition, citing neglect and discrimination. On February 8th, leaders from these special autonomous cities and provinces convened an emergency meeting at the Conrad Seoul Hotel to discuss their concerns regarding the delay in legislative review of the 'Special Law on Administrative Capital and Administrative Integration' by the National Assembly, which currently focuses only on integration legislation, excluding the special laws.

During the meeting, they unanimously agreed on the need to pass the special laws in February. They addressed issues related to the incentives for administrative integration, discussing the challenges and concerns surrounding implantation, and collaborated on future action strategies. Following the meeting, they released statements outlining demands that reflect the unique characteristics and conditions of their respective jurisdictions, highlighting the urgent need for equitable treatment in law-making processes affecting them.

Key regional leaders, including Gangwon Governor Kim Jin-tae, raised critical points about the perceived unfairness in legislative processes that repeatedly hinder the passage of special laws, with specific emphasis on the substantial funding totaling 20 trillion won as incentives for administrative integration, which he questions as a justifiable use of taxpayer money. Other leaders, such as Sejong Mayor Choi Min-ho and Jeonbuk Governor Kim Kwan-young, echoed the demand for swift processing of the special laws relevant to their localities, advocating for better financial support and decision-making authority to enhance their regions' capabilities and competitiveness.