earticle

영어

This study analyzes residents’ perceptions of public facility reorganization in rural centers (Anchor, General, and Village-level townships) facing severe population decline to propose strategies for a sustainable service delivery system. The research surveyed 285 residents across 71 centers in 11 counties within the Jeolla provinces, all categorized in the ‘risk of regional extinction’ stage. Using Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA), the study confirmed that facility management must be differentiated by hierarchy. For General Townships, ‘quality improvement’ of high-utilization facilities is the priority. Village-level Townships, however, require ‘resource optimization’ and restructuring of inefficient facilities. Residents seek ‘quality of life’ (culture/welfare) normally but prioritize ‘basic services’ (administration/safety/health) during crises. Regarding reorganization, they strongly oppose fee increases. Instead, they favor ‘Smart Shrink’ strategies, focusing on efficiency through ‘facility integration’ and ‘co-management with neighboring municipalities’. Customized complexation strategies centered on anchor facilities like Township Offices are required. Anchor Townships prefer functional advancement for wider areas, while Village-level townships require survival-oriented integration through ‘Integrated Service Buildings’ that compress essential functions into a single space. In conclusion, reorganization must be data-driven and transparent, emphasizing the necessity of wider-area service networks through inter-regional cooperation to ensure the long-term viability of rural communities.