By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

HL Group Chairman Chung Mong-won has been named an honorary citizen of the city of Wałbrzych, Poland. According to HL Group, Chairman Chung became the 15th honorary citizen of the city of Wałbrzych, on April 29 (local time).

He was recognized for his 14 years of contributions to the community since opening the HL-Mando auto parts plant in the city in 2011.

HL MANDO Poland is the only Korean company in the city of Wałbrzych. The combined size of factories 1 and 2 is approximately 165,000 square meters, producing automotive parts such as brakes, steering, and suspension.

The company employs more than 1,000 people, or about 1 percent of the city's population as of March.

The city's core industry was coal, but it has been in decline since 1990 and few coal mining facilities remain.

HL MANDO's Polish subsidiary is credited with playing a major role in transforming the community with large-scale employment and improving the city's aesthetics.

Roman Szełemej, mayor of Wałbrzych, thanked Chairman Chung, saying, “HL Mando Poland has led the revitalization of this depressed coal mining town.”

“I am honored to receive the title of Honorary Citizen,” said Chairman Chung, adding that HL MANDO Poland will continue to grow together with the city of Wałbrzych.