Establishment of Gyeongsangnam-do's Four Major Metropolitan Living Zone Plan, Announcement of Urban Policy Master Plan
Gyeongsangnam-do has presented a new direction for future urban development by establishing the first four major metropolitan living zone plan in the country.
This plan is divided into eastern, western, southern, and northern zones, incorporating differentiated strategies that reflect the characteristics of each living zone.
As a result, sustainable urban growth and regional innovation are expected to occur.
Four Major Metropolitan Living Zones, Promoting Regional Innovation with Customized Development Strategies
On March 4, 2025, Gyeongsangnam-do announced the core four major metropolitan living zone plan (draft) at the department heads' meeting.
This plan is the first comprehensive spatial strategy at the metropolitan level in the country, developed to address issues such as population decline and weakened urban competitiveness. The main goal is to establish strategies reflecting the characteristics and development potential of each living zone across Gyeongnam divided into ▲ eastern ▲ western ▲ southern ▲ northern zones.
To structure the living zones, the province utilized quantitative data such as commuting and traffic volume, and derived development strategies through surveys of residents and consultations with city and county offices.
This plan is expected to play a significant role in promoting sustainable development in Gyeongnam and implementing tailored policies that reflect the unique characteristics of each region.
Eastern Metropolitan Living Zone: Creation of Southeast Advanced Innovation Hub (Brain Region)
(Target Areas: Changwon, Gimhae, Yangsan, Miryang, Ham-an, Changnyeong)
The Southeast region plays a core role through advanced industries and talent cultivation. Additionally, it creates a pedestrian-centered daily living zone by connecting Masan Station and Changwon Central Station.
It is establishing an ICT-converged smart city and logistics base, developing a Nakdong River and marine tourism belt linked to historical and cultural hubs of the Gaya Kingdom.
Finally, it is building a community-centered all-care integrated support system to improve the quality of life for residents.
Western Metropolitan Living Zone: Creation of Future Space Innovation Zone (Neo-Space Region)
(Target Areas: Jinju, Sacheon, Namhae, Hadong, Uiryeong)
It promotes spatial innovation and regional development through the cultivation of the aerospace industry.
Expansion of the aerospace complex city and economic free zone is necessary.
Establishing an innovation ecosystem centered around the innovative city is crucial.
Additionally, the expansion of ultra-wide transportation networks along with the creation of advanced industry, aerospace agri-food, and green bio clusters are required.
Southern Metropolitan Living Zone: Creation of Marine Economy Center (Oceanopolis Region)
(Target Areas: Tongyeong, Geoje, Goseong)
It promotes future expansion based on the marine industry and tourism content. The development of regionally specialized zones linked to the new airport on Gadeokdo is underway, and there are plans to foster eco-friendly shipbuilding and marine/energy specialized industries. Additionally, it aims to establish an ultra-connected marine tourism network to strengthen competitiveness.
Northern Metropolitan Living Zone: Creation of Green Future Development Zone (Eco-Innovation Region)
(Target Areas: Geochang, Sancheong, Hamyang, Hampyeong)
In order to create a sustainable city, a balance must be achieved between development and conservation. There is a need to relocate and restore the functions of areas prone to indiscriminate development.
Additionally, it is necessary to establish gateways and resort towns while developing self-sufficient cities like "Golden City" that focus on the middle-aged demographic.
Finally, fostering the next generation of smart agriculture and livestock industries will also be an important task.
Future Direction of Gyeongnam's Urban Strategy
Gyeongsangnam-do plans to continuously improve key indicators in various fields such as housing, industry, culture, and welfare by 2045. To this end, this year it will proceed with the establishment and amendment of related regulations, preparing implementation guidelines to enhance the effectiveness of the policies.
Furthermore, it will hold communication forums involving experts, academic societies, and residents to undergo a process of social public discussions. Once these efforts are fully implemented, they are expected to significantly contribute to balanced regional development and revitalization of the local economy throughout Gyeongnam.
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