Are small cities disappearing? The policy responses to urban shrinkage oriented toward young people in Uiseong-gun, South Korea

As urban shrinkage gains increasing attention, studies in the US and Europe have examined the causes, manifestations, and consequences of the phenomenon as well as the policy responses extensively. However, the empirical research on South Korea remains limited despite the fact that the country has the lowest birth rate and fastest aging rate worldwide and its small cities face complicated issues associated with socioeconomic shrinkage. This study focuses on Uiseong-gun, a small city ranked at the highest risk of "local disappearance." This case exclusively targets the demographic of talented young people and involves a comprehensive approach to attracting them. By applying a multidimensional framework of policy responses to urban shrinkage, this case examination highlights the key characteristics, including intergovernmental collaboration, comprehensive strategies, residents' participation and empowerment, and the role of intermediary organizations. The limitations of the case, including the validity, efficacy, and sustainability of the young people-oriented policy and resulting socio-spatial disparities, are discussed in terms of the long-lasting tension between economic and spatial efficiency and socio-spatial equality. Lastly, the argument is presented that urban shrinkage requires rethinking the meaning of city space such that cities are not merely tools of growth but spaces for those who live in them.