Typology of Small- to Medium-Sized Korean Local Cities with Population Decline from the Perspective of Urban Compactness

This study examines urban structure typologies for small- to medium-sized cities in South Korea facing population decline, with a focus on urban compactness as a sustainable strategy. Population reduction and aging trends have become prominent issues in South Korea, especially impacting smaller cities, where decreased population density affects urban service functionality and infrastructure maintenance. This research applies and adapts Japan’s urban structure evaluation framework, specifically designed for the Japanese compact city model, to analyze the spatial conditions of 15 small- and medium-sized cities in Gyeongsangbuk-do province, South Korea. Using various indicators such as population density, accessibility to daily services, public transport, and local economic activity, this study conducts a typological classification based on principal component analysis and clustering methods. The findings suggest distinct urban structure patterns within these cities, offering strategic insights for urban policy aimed at enhancing urban compactness and sustainability. The implications highlight the need for tailored policies that address the spatial reorganization of services and infrastructure to maintain urban viability amidst demographic shifts.