Exploratory Research to Overcome the Urban Cultural Identity Crisis

Exploratory Research to Overcome the Urban Cultural Identity Crisis

This study originated from the question “How does a culture practically contribute to urban development?” Many advanced cities have used historical culture as a key strategy. In Korea, many urban governments devote resources to promoting and enhancing urban cultural identity but the effects of these efforts such as were unexpected. The results of these activities are not core elements in economic growth, such as attractive points for citizens, visitors and investors. Most urban governments present meaningless policies such as creative cities, innovative cities and humanistic cities. These cities don’t have concrete strategic planning. This study selected 20 growing and declining cities that were clearly divided by the preceding research results. As a result, cultural performance does not contribute to urban development contrary to the expectations of many governments in Korea.