This study analyzes how urban regeneration projects address the decline of old city centers, focusing on the case of Jochiwon in Sejong Special Self-Governing City, and proposes practical revitalization strategies. Jochiwon, once the economic and cult...
This study analyzes how urban regeneration projects address the decline of old city centers, focusing on the case of Jochiwon in Sejong Special Self-Governing City, and proposes practical revitalization strategies. Jochiwon, once the economic and cultural hub of the Chungcheong region, has experienced complex urban decline characterized by population loss, aging demographics, economic stagnation, and physical deterioration due to the development of Sejong’s new administrative city and the subsequent relocation of major public institutions. Such phenomena are structural issues commonly observed in aging urban centers nationwide. In response, the national and local governments have implemented various urban regeneration initiatives, notably the Urban Regeneration New Deal policy.
This research first explores the concept and evolution of urban regeneration policies through comparative analyses of domestic and international examples, closely examining notable domestic cases such as Changsin and Sungin in Seoul, Sanbokdoro in Busan, and the old city center in Jeonju. Subsequently, a comprehensive diagnosis of Jochiwon’s historical, economic, social, and spatial characteristics was conducted, identifying functional interconnections with new city developments, shifts in urban hierarchy, and structural limitations in local economy, residential environments, and cultural spaces.
Based on this analysis, the following revitalization strategies tailored to Jochiwon’s specific context are proposed:
First, establishing a university-centered urban specialization model leveraging human and material resources from local universities such as Korea University and Hongik University to foster entrepreneurship, culture, and integrated residential models.
Second, reinterpreting unique local assets including the railway-side urban forests, traditional markets, and modern cultural heritage as resources for tourism and cultural content development.
Third, enhancing physical accessibility and functional connectivity between the old and new city centers through expanded public transportation (Bus Rapid Transit), establishment of cooperative governance structures, and balanced administrative and financial support.
Fourth, promoting community-driven governance and capacity-building initiatives to nurture a social economy ecosystem composed of cooperatives and village enterprises, supporting joint ventures by younger and elderly demographics, local branding, and tourism-driven economic self-sufficiency.
Through the case of Jochiwon, this study underscores the importance of an integrated approach to urban regeneration encompassing economic, social, and cultural dimensions, beyond mere physical improvements.