Suspicious Budget Execution in 16 District Councils of Busan... Used for Tourism, Experiences, and Goods Purchase
Many of the 16 district councils in Busan have reportedly used funds from the Busan City Council for tourism and other purchases, raising concerns about budget transparency.
On September 9, the Busan Economic Justice Action Coalition revealed at a press conference that the majority of the 16 district councils in Busan had utilized funds allocated by the Busan City Council for tourism-related activities, experiences, and for purchasing items such as souvenirs and group uniforms. They called for transparency in the usage of these funds and emphasized the need for the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the financial operations of local councils nationwide, suggesting that any improper expenditures should lead to recoveries, and appropriate standards should be established for fund execution. According to the Busan Economic Justice Action Coalition, the district councils operate under the framework of the Local Autonomy Act, which encourages mutual exchanges and enhances cooperation among the 16 district councils in Busan. Each council pays an annual fee of 10 million won towards a cooperative fund. In February last year, the councils were allotted 4.5 million won each as part of a project titled ‘Support Fund for the Strengthening of Local Councils.' Various councils have reportedly spent this support fund on tourism and experiential activities, with expenditures often peaking at 450 million won for short trips and events. Examples highlighted include the Geumjeong District Council's 730,000 won spent on a yacht tour, while the Sasang District Council of 450 million won was spent on bowling and meals for council members and their staff. The North District Council spent 430,000 won on recreational sports, indicating a pattern of allocating funds originally intended for council expenses towards leisure activities, thus raising significant questions about fiscal responsibility and transparency in the management of public funds within Busan’s local governance.