The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon walks hand in hand with the United Nations head of the UN Habitat in Nairobi, Anna Tibaijuka, right, during a visit to the Kibera Slums in Nairobi, Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2007. Ban will discuss with U.N. and Kenyan officials a possible emergency summit of world leaders aimed at breaking a deadlock over cutting greenhouse gases blamed for global warming, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Sayyid Azim)



[Editorial] Busan Lotte World Up to the Expectations

Construction of Busan Lotte World has finally commenced in earnest. Since beginning construction in 2000, it has now been eight years that the work has been suspended. During the suspension, rumors spread abroad such as the plan is abandoned or the size is to be cut. However, such rumors are completely settled because Lotte held a formal press conference yesterday and revealed a detailed schedule and intends orderly construction. It is fortunate for Busan City as well as the residents of Busan.

There are certain reasons that Busan Lotte World became a particular matter of concern. First, are the expectations for it to be a symbol of Busan that bring the issue to the surface. Having a modern skyscraper with 107 stories, as high as 510 meters, in Busan Port is something that raises the pride of residents as well as the dignity of the city. The additional economic boost is also of great importance. A number of construction jobs will be available instantly. After completion, not to mention creation of new employment, income from local taxes amounting to 15 billion won annually will follow. After the initial opening in 2009, the complete opening in 2013 will lead to a massive effect of inducing the maritime industry that is anticipating the accompanying revitalization of commercial supremacy that is currently inactive.

This is the background of the absolute support granted by Busan City with its approval of a change in design, which can be viewed nearly as a privilege. It is also the reason Busan residents approve of such action rather than criticize it. It is questionable how deeply Lotte has been aware of such attachment of the Busan residents. The Lotte enterprise had been appraised as tightfisted in returning to Busan relative to the profit of the business. Nevertheless, such negative views are now greatly improved due to the establishment of Busan Lotte World. It is expected that the enterprise cares much more for the development of Busan.

It is hoped that the relationship between Busan and Lotte is secure, to be developed mutually with good progress in the construction of Lotte World without any setbacks.
/ 입력시간: 2007. 01.31. 09:43