The district invited author Park Tae-ung to discuss AI and public administration at the inaugural session, drawing 101 participants; monthly reading and discussion events are planned going forward
Jungnang-gu held the inaugural session of its Jungnang Chaengmun reading and discussion program Thursday morning at the district office's planning situation room, with author Park Tae-ung as the featured guest.
Jungnang Chaengmun is a monthly reading and discussion program designed to help civil servants examine social change and key issues through books, and to broaden their perspectives on district affairs through questions and open debate. Each month, participants read a selected title, engage in conversation with its author, and collectively explore challenges facing Jungnang-gu and society at large.
For the first session, the district selected "Park Tae-ung's AI Lecture 2026" and centered the discussion on the theme of AI as a new operating system. A total of 101 participants — including the district mayor, senior civil servants and staff — attended to discuss the changes AI is bringing and how public administration should respond.
Park emphasized the importance of building data infrastructure and strengthening civil servants' understanding of AI. Participants engaged in questions and debate on topics including how to apply AI to handling public inquiries and improving administrative services, and the role of civil servants' judgment and accountability. They also shared concerns from their own work, taking a closer look at how AI can be put to practical use in administrative settings and what preparations are needed.
The district plans to hold Jungnang Chaengmun once a month to sustain a culture of shared reading and inquiry. The second session is scheduled for Nov. 18.
District Mayor Ryu Kyung-gi said the program was launched "with the intention of approaching the many challenges facing Jungnang-gu and our society with curiosity — asking questions and searching for answers together." He added that he hopes civil servants "will take an active role in driving internal change and innovation through AI, and in helping residents achieve growth suited to the AI era."
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