The Seoul Research Institute recently hosted the "2025 1st Council Regular General Meeting" on March 27 and 28, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of local governance in South Korea. The event, held in Seoul, brought together approximately 100 participants, including heads and staff from 18 local autonomous research institutes.
Established in 1993, the Korea Metropolitan Research Institute Council comprises 18 organizations, including 16 metropolitan local autonomous research institutes, the Korea Local Administration Research Institute, and the Korea Local Tax Research Institute. The council plays a vital role in fostering regional development and promoting sound local governance through collaborative research across various fields.
At this year’s meeting, the council officially changed its name from the National Metropolitan Research Institute Council to the Korea Metropolitan Research Institute Council. This rebranding aligns with the 30th anniversary of local autonomy in South Korea, emphasizing the council's commitment to enhancing its role as a regional think tank and expanding global knowledge-sharing cooperation.
In line with its new direction, the council has selected "Local Regulatory Innovation and Central Regulatory Authority Transfer Plan" as its joint research project for the year. This initiative aims to strengthen the autonomy of local governments and explore effective strategies for implementing policies that cater to regional characteristics.
Following the general meeting, a business agreement was signed between the council and Citynet, an international organization focused on sustainable urban development in the Asia-Pacific region. This partnership aims to expand the global city knowledge-sharing network and promote sustainable smart city models.
Chairman Oh Geun expressed optimism about the council's future, stating, "With our new name, the Korea Metropolitan Research Institute Council will expand collaborative research in areas such as local regulatory innovation in celebration of the 30th anniversary of local autonomy. We will work together with renewed determination to enhance the research capabilities and expertise of local research institutes."
The Seoul Research Institute itself is dedicated to addressing the complex urban issues of Seoul through systematic and professional research. It aims to contribute to the advancement of city governance by analyzing key policy tasks and engaging in academic activities related to pressing municipal challenges.
Its logo reflects the essence of Seoul and the institute, incorporating the initials of both words. The design symbolizes a cross-section of the city, divided into seven layers, resembling the shapes of Bukhansan Mountain and the Han River. This imagery signifies the institute's commitment to comprehensively examining various sectors of Seoul through its multiple research departments.
As the Korea Metropolitan Research Institute Council embarks on this new chapter, it is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of local governance and urban development in South Korea. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the council aims to navigate the challenges of modern governance while enhancing the quality of life for residents across the nation.
The council's initiatives and partnerships underscore the importance of adaptive governance in addressing the unique needs of local communities, ensuring that policies are not only effective but also reflective of regional identities. As the landscape of local governance continues to evolve, the Korea Metropolitan Research Institute Council stands ready to lead the charge toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.
For more information about the Seoul Research Institute and its ongoing projects, visit their official website at www.si.re.kr.
