You can't remove heart from body': FSS, KDIC unions rally against relocation out of Seoul

The Korea Deposit Insurance Corporation (KDIC) and Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) unions are strongly opposing a government plan to move their headquarters from Seoul to Sejong. The government says the relocation would help reduce the concentration of government agencies in Seoul and promote balanced regional development.

The unions argue that moving the agencies could weaken Korea’s financial stability because most financial companies and related businesses are located in the Seoul area. They worry that greater physical distance could slow the government’s response during financial crises, when quick decisions are especially important.

The unions also fear that the relocation could cause many experienced employees to leave. A survey of 1,538 FSS employees found that 85.6% would consider leaving if the agency moved outside Seoul. Among employees under 40, the figure was even higher at 92.5%.

Young workers could face additional difficulties because moving their workplace could affect their housing, family, marriage and career plans. The unions said some employees might even have to give up their specialized careers if they cannot move to Sejong.

The government is expected to begin discussing the relocation plan soon. However, the unions are calling for more discussion and agreement before making such an important decision. They said they are considering different actions, including legal action and possibly a general strike.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source:https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/economy/20260824/you-cant-remove-heart-from-body-fss-kdic-unions-rally-against-relocation-out-of-seoul

Comprehension

What government plan are the KDIC and FSS unions opposing?
Why does the government want to move agencies to Sejong?
Why do the unions believe relocation could affect financial stability?
What percentage of FSS employees said they might leave if the agency moves?
How could relocation affect young workers?

Discussion

Do you think government agencies should be moved outside capital cities? Why?
What are the advantages of moving government agencies to regional areas?
What problems could happen when an important organization is relocated?
Should employees have a say in decisions about relocating their workplace?
Would you move to another city if your company relocated? Why or why not?
How important is it for financial institutions to respond quickly during a crisis?
Do you think the government should prioritize regional development or employee concerns?
What would be a fair solution between the government and the workers?

Vocabulary

Relocate – to move to a different place.
Stability – a situation that is steady and not likely to change suddenly.
Oppose – to disagree with or fight against something.
Concentration – having many people or businesses in one particular place.
Oversight – the act of carefully watching and checking something.
Crisis – a very serious or dangerous situation.
Delay – to make something happen later than expected.
Specialized – having special knowledge or skills in one area.
Stakeholder – a person or group affected by a decision.
Consensus – general agreement among a group of people.