The first Gangwon Special Self-Governing Provincial Assembly was launched in September 1956, when candidates elected in the Aug. 13 local election that year gathered for an inaugural ceremony.
The assembly marked its 70th anniversary Thursday, holding a commemorative ceremony attended by about 150 people, including former provincial lawmakers, the governor, the provincial superintendent of education and other officials.
The event offered an opportunity to look back on seven decades of legislative history, honor the assembly's role as the representative body of Gangwon residents, and reaffirm its commitment to shaping a new future for the province. Former assembly members joined the gathering to reflect on their contributions to the assembly's development and the lives of residents, sharing a moment that bridged generations in envisioning the institution's path forward.
A keynote address by former Assembly Speaker Kim Si-seong, who served as the 11th speaker, allowed participants to draw on past legislative experience and wisdom as they explored a vision for the assembly's next chapter.
Assembly Speaker Park Gil-seon said the assembly's growth over the past 70 years was built on the dedication and hard work of former lawmakers who stood by the people of Gangwon. "Carrying on that precious history and spirit, we will listen more closely to the voices of residents and build an assembly that truly supports them," he said.
Park said the 70th anniversary was not simply a moment to commemorate the past but "a starting point for preparing the next 70 years." He added that the 12th Gangwon Special Self-Governing Provincial Assembly would pursue open communication and cooperation with residents "to open a new future for Gangwon together."
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