Exploring the Changes in Urban Centrality During the COVID-19 in Seoul, South Korea

This study explores changes in urban centrality in terms of clustering and centripetal force before and during the pandemic, using Seoul’s de facto population data. The results reveal several key findings: first, there was a significant decrease in the de facto population across Seoul’s downtown areas during the pandemic. Second, the clustering of the de facto population in the downtown areas weakened. Third, no distinct changes were observed in the centroid and directional distribution of the de facto population. Fourth, a comparison of the density gradients of the de facto population confirmed that the centripetal force of the Central Business District (CBD) and Gangnam Business District (GBD) reduced. This study underscores the significant impact of the pandemic on cities and necessitates a reevaluation of urban planning to adapt to changing population dynamics.