The North Jeolla branch of South Korean minor opposition party Bareunmirae has reignited debate over the possible development of a locals casino on the reclaimed Saemangeum tidal flat, located on South Korea’s west coast.
Previously quashed by the National Assembly in 2016 due to strong public opposition, the concept has been given fresh life this week after the Bareunmirae branch issued a statement to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ calling for the Saemangeum area to be designated as a special zone for marine leisure and tourism, according to Korea Bizwire.
“Building a casino will become a turning point for growth in North Jeolla Province,” the statement said.
“We ask North Jeolla Province, Gunsan and local politicians to concentrate the effort on turning the Saemangum area into an international destination for marine leisure and tourism, just like Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia and Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.”
The proposal has divided opinions, with opponents citing further environmental damage after a controversial seawall was built to dam the area in 2010. The Saemangeum had previously been a renowned habitat for many migratory birds.
The North Jeolla branch of the Korean Federation for Environmental Movement has accused the Barunmirae Party of “distorting the facts to make it seem like the government is actually planning to build a casino in the Saemangeum area to boost marine tourism.”
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