As South Korea approaches the local elections on June 3, discussions regarding the administrative integration of metropolitan municipalities are gaining momentum. However, an analysis by the Economic Justice Citizens' Alliance (경실련) reveals that approximately 84% of the provisions in the special laws proposed by both the ruling Democratic Party and the opposition People Power Party pose serious threats to the foundations of the country's administrative system. At a press conference held in Seoul, 경실련 pointed out that of the 1,035 provisions in the three special laws being analyzed, a significant portion demands changes that could undermine the integrity and effectiveness of national governance.

The three special laws analyzed include those proposed by the Democratic Party for the integration of Chungnam and Daejeon, and Jeonnam and Gwangju, as well as a law by the People Power Party for the integration of Daegu and Gyeongbuk. The provisions are largely focused on the transfer of authority and regulatory relaxation (44.93%), financial and procedural advantages (27.63%), and favoritism in local grievances (11.5%). These changes are alarming to 경실련, especially the transfer of powers from national ministries to local officials, which could lead to environmental degradation and unregulated development due to the concentration of decision-making power.

In light of these findings, 경실련 is calling for a halt to what they deem rushed legislation. They stress that any administrative integration should not foster favoritism towards specific regions but instead adhere to principles of decentralization and comprehensive financial reform applicable across all local governments. The alliance urges lawmakers to prioritize transparent processes and uphold principles of genuine decentralization before proceeding with such significant legislative changes.