A local environmental organization has expressed strong criticisms regarding the Jeonbuk Town Hall meeting chaired by the President, which they contend solely focused on developmental agendas such as artificial intelligence and renewable energy. According to the group, the discussions failed to include crucial environmental issues like the restoration of the Saemangeum estuary and the conservation of tidal flats. They accused the authorities of ignoring residents' concerns, particularly those of fishermen who have been adversely affected by ongoing development projects.

During a press conference, representatives highlighted that while there was much talk about positive developments like investments by Hyundai, critical issues like water quality and ecological degradation were largely overlooked. The group criticized the meeting for not fostering meaningful dialogues about the future of Saemangeum and lamented the lack of communication on pressing local environmental challenges. They pointed out that the 30-year Saemangeum reclamation project has severely harmed local ecosystems and communities, displacing fishermen and leading to ecological disasters including water quality deterioration.

The environmental activists are calling for a policy shift, urging the government to abandon current water management strategies that maintain the water level in Saemangeum at a level lower than that of the nearby sea. They argue such policies are detrimental to not only the ecology but also the future economic viability of the local communities. With younger generations leaving and schools closing, the group underscores that these issues are not just environmental but indicative of a declining local economy and community, thereby stressing the need for immediate and transformative action regarding the Saemangeum policies.