Basic Report

The purpose of this study is to design a balanced regional development policy based on decentralization. First of all, this study examines the theory about whether decentralization and regional balanced development can make mutual synergy effect. Of course, there are various perspectives that claims balanced regional development first and then decentralization; decentralization first and then regional balanced development; both decentralization and regional balanced development simultaneously. Even empirical studies have not concluded that which claims is better. However, in our country, the demands and aspirations of the people for decentralization and regional balanced development are so high that we can not help but pursue both at the same time.Although the governments of the post-2000 period have not been able to ignore the balanced regional development by decentralization, they have implemented a centralized regional development policy led by the central government. In addition, we analyzed the case of Jeju Special Self–Governing Province achieving regional development through decentralization and the case of Special Local Administrative Agencies preventing regional development through centralization.Based on these discussions and analyzes, this study proposes a regional balanced development policy based on local decentralization that will increase demand in accordance with the decentralization reform in 2018. First, it suggests the principles of drawing new balanced regional development policy based on decentralization. Here, we propose an approach to adopt the revision of constitution, the focusing on decentralization and the rapid depopulation of Korea.This study then presents the direction of policy frame. It is necessary to clearly state in the Constitution that the country is a decentralized state, to localize the policy promotion system, to strengthen the regional capacity for policy implementation, to strengthen the financial decentralization as a policy basis, This study introduces key measures that need to promote a balanced regional development policy on the basis of decentralization; systematic management for the equalization of quality of life and living conditions among the regions, enhancement of the independence of education, employment and medical care in the regions, establishment of local job creation system of diverse channels that are the basis of decentralization and regional development, and the prevention of collapsing of local community by aging and low fertility rate.Finally, this study supposes the basis for organization and institutional aspects. They are as follows; establishment of the regional development planning which is led by the local government, and minimization of the special budget for balanced development and strengthening of the comprehensive assistance, and the implementation of an differential supporting system of tax and finance according to the regional development, and the establishment of governance initiated by local government.The significance of this study is that it will be useful to reduce the cost of policy design and to develop better policy needed in 2018.