Shrinking smartly and sustainably in Korea

Korea is undergoing a profound demographic transition especially in regions distant from the Seoul capital region, marked by rapid population ageing and population decline. Population change is placing growing pressure on spatial planning and housing systems, particularly as land consumption and infrastructure costs continue to rise despite population shrinkage. This paper examines Korea’s evolving policy response, highlighting a transition from growth-driven planning to more adaptive, place-based strategies. It explores how spatial planning and housing policy are being integrated to promote urban regeneration, improve housing quality, and support more efficient land use. The paper also explores innovative initiatives in Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do, offering lessons for adapting spatial planning and housing to demographic challenges.