Starting in October, District Mayor Kim Dong-wook will meet residents every second and fourth Wednesday afternoon at the first-floor 'Open Mayor's Office' — pledging to listen to even the smallest concerns
Seoul's Dobong-gu has opened an "Open Mayor's Office" and launched a regular "Communication Day" program in which the district mayor meets residents face to face, in an effort to lower barriers between the district office and the public.
The district established the Open Mayor's Office on Aug. 31 as a dedicated unit for resolving resident complaints. The office focuses on recurring, complex and unusual grievances, providing support through on-site investigations and conflict mediation.
On top of that, the district has introduced "Communication Day" sessions where District Mayor Kim Dong-wook meets residents in person to hear their concerns and discuss solutions, broadening direct contact with the community.
The sessions will be held regularly starting in October on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 4 p.m. at the Open Mayor's Office on the first floor of the Dobong-gu district office. Any Dobong-gu resident interested in district affairs or wishing to discuss everyday inconveniences is welcome to attend.
Before the official launch, the district held a pilot session on Sept. 22. Residents who signed up in advance raised a range of issues and concerns — including improvements to the residential environment, public safety and enforcement against violations. Kim listened attentively, discussing possible responses and directions for follow-up.
"We will make sure no voice goes unheard and actively reflect residents' input in district policy, creating changes that people can feel in their daily lives," Kim said.
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