Taipei City Government

Mayor Ko Wen-je embarked on a trip to South Korea on July 12. This is the last among the city government’s three inspection visits to Gwangju for 2015 Universiade related events.
The mission of the city delegation includes receiving the Universiade flag from this year’s host to signal the beginning of the countdown to the 2017 event, attending seminars, signing agreements with FISU (International University Sports Federation), as well as conducting administrative exchanges.

Arriving at Gwanju at 5:30 PM local time, Ko had the opportunity to taste the famed South Korean delicacy “ginseng chicken soup.” On the following day, the mayor would pay a visit to the Taipei Pavilion—a NT$6 million project by Department of Urban Development to promote Taiwan. Having posted an article on facebook to root for Chinese Taipei baseball team—who later claimed gold medal—Ko noted that he plans to visit the athletes during his trip.
Answering media concerns about measures he took to minimize the risk of contracting MERS, Ko remarked that he brought facial masks and an ear thermometer. He believes that the disease has been contained, based on the lack of new cases being reported for six consecutive days.
Questioned by the media whether choosing to fly in Economy Class for the travel was of budget concern, the mayor replied that it has become a new protocol for city staff; those who wish to upgrade to higher classes will have to pay the extra fare themselves.