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Lee Jae-myung, presidential candidate of the Democratic Party, gives a thumbs-up to citizens during a major campaign rally at Ilsan Cultural Plaza in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, on May 20. / Source: Yonhap News

Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung campaigned in Uijeongbu and Ilsan, northern Gyeonggi Province, on May 20, where he firmly opposed the proposed creation of a special autonomous province in the region and pledged to resume efforts to eliminate tolls on Ilsan Bridge.

During a rally near the Yi Seong-gye statue in Uijeongbu, Lee said, “If northern Gyeonggi could thrive independently with its own fiscal resources, then autonomy would be the right path. But what happens if we separate it now?”

Lee criticized the assumption that provincial separation would ease development restrictions in the area. “Northern Gyeonggi has a weak industrial base due to heavy regulation. Separating it won't suddenly lift those regulations,” he said. “Claiming that a split would result in sweeping deregulation is a deception.”

He emphasized that regulation reform should occur regardless of administrative boundaries. “If we can ease regulations without splitting the province, we should. And if separation doesn’t guarantee reform, then it’s meaningless,” he said.

Citing his term as Gyeonggi governor, Lee noted, “Though southern Gyeonggi generated 1.5 times more tax revenue, investment in social infrastructure was nearly 1.5 times higher in the north.” He argued that despite its smaller population, northern Gyeonggi received more investment to promote balanced development and attract industries.

“Once we establish a stable economic foundation through such investment, only then can we discuss separation,” he added. “If we proceed now, the revenue shortfall for northern Gyeonggi would exceed 800 billion won.”

Acknowledging the political risks of his stance, he said, “I know this may cost me votes, but I can’t support something I believe is unwise.”

Later in the day, at a campaign rally in Ilsan Cultural Plaza, Lee revisited the issue of Ilsan Bridge tolls. “Right after I left office, the tolls came back,” he said. “But as president, who’s going to stop me?”

He questioned the fairness of charging tolls on Ilsan Bridge. “There are dozens of bridges, so why do only we have to pay? Goyang citizens pay taxes to build bridges like Hangang Bridge—why are we treated differently?” he asked, vowing swift action to eliminate the tolls.

Lee also underscored the importance of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act, aimed at preventing industrial fatalities. “This law was agreed upon with the People Power Party. How can they now call it a bad law?” he said. “We must minimize fatal workplace accidents caused by employers failing to meet basic safety and labor standards.”